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Proverbs 13:24
He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.

Proverbs 19:18
Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.

Proverbs 29:15,17
The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child leftto himself bringeth his mother to shame…

although you strike him with a rod,
The "rod" in ancient Israelite culture was a symbol of authority and correction. It was not necessarily a tool for physical punishment but rather a metaphor for guidance and instruction. The shepherd's rod, for example, was used to guide and protect sheep, not harm them. This imagery is consistent withPsalm 23:4, where the rod and staff comfort the psalmist. The use of the rod here is intended to convey the seriousness of imparting wisdom and the necessity of corrective measures to ensure a child's proper development.

he will not die.
This phrase emphasizes the protective nature of discipline. In the ancient Near Eastern context, discipline was seen as a means to preserve life by steering individuals away from destructive paths. The assurance that "he will not die" suggests that proper discipline leads to life and growth, aligning with the broader biblical theme that wisdom and obedience to God's ways lead to life. This is further supported byProverbs 19:18, which advises disciplining a child while there is hope, indicating that timely correction can prevent future harm.

Proverbs 23:13a: “Do not withhold discipline from a child”

• Scripture speaks directly to parents: corrective training is an obligation, not an option (cf.Proverbs 29:15; 13:24;Hebrews 12:6).

• Discipline is a concrete expression of love—guiding a young heart toward wisdom and away from destructive paths (Proverbs 22:6).

• What it includes:

– Setting clear boundaries and consequences.

– Consistent follow-through so the child connects action with outcome (Ephesians 6:4).

– Instruction that points back to God’s standards, not personal convenience.

• What it avoids: harshness or anger that provokes resentment (Colossians 3:21). Loving discipline protects a child from the far greater pain of undisciplined living.

Proverbs 23:13b: “although you strike him with a rod”

• The “rod” symbolizes measured, purposeful correction, not uncontrolled violence (Proverbs 22:15; 20:30).

• Physical discipline is one legitimate form the Lord commends when administered:

– Calmly, never in rage (James 1:20).

– Proportionate to the offense, never excessive (Deuteronomy 25:3 gives a principle of limiting blows).

– Always accompanied by verbal instruction and reassurance of love (Proverbs 13:24).

• Alternatives such as removal of privileges can complement; the point is effective correction that reaches the heart.

• God models this: He disciplines His children for their good, never for harm (Hebrews 12:10).

Proverbs 23:13c: “he will not die”

• Discipline may sting, but it is far from lethal; withholding it, however, courts spiritual and even physical ruin (Proverbs 19:18).

• The promise underscores God’s design—proper correction preserves life:

– It steers a child away from sin’s deadly consequences (Romans 6:23).

– It produces “the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11).

• Temporary discomfort points toward long-term safety and blessing (Revelation 3:19).

• Faithful parents can trust that disciplined children will endure and flourish under God’s watchful care.

Proverbs 23:13 calls parents to loving, consistent, and sometimes firm correction. Withholding discipline is unloving; applying it—yes, even through the “rod” when appropriate—guards a child from greater harm. Administered in love and under God’s guidance, such discipline will not destroy a child but will help cultivate wisdom, righteousness, and life.