Bible Strands
Proverbs 23:13
Do not withhold discipline from a child; although you strike him with a rod, he will not die.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The wisdom teacher addresses a student or parent in a direct instructional moment, immediately following a command to apply one’s heart to instruction (Proverbs 23:12).
The words — The text commands the reader not to withhold מוּסָ֑ר (mu.Sar) = discipline, specifying that correction may occur בַ֝/שֵּׁ֗בֶט (va./She.vet) = with the rod.
The thread — This directive runs parallel to Proverbs 13:24, Proverbs 19:18, and Proverbs 29:15, which each connect corrective discipline with the preservation of life or the imparting of wisdom.
Why it lands — The verse commands immediate action, rejecting the excuse that physical correction will cause death. It requires the reader to prioritize moral preservation over the avoidance of physical discomfort.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.
Cross-references
- Proverbs 13:24 He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently.
- Proverbs 19:18 Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be party to his death.
- Proverbs 29:15 A rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a child left to himself disgraces his mother.
- Proverbs 29:17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will bring delight to your soul.