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Proverbs 23:22
Verse
Context
Sermons
Paul Washer
Zac Poonen
St. John Chrysostom
Harriet N. Cook
Valsan ThampuSummary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The parainesis begins anew, and the division is open to question. Pro 23:22-24 can of themselves be independent distichs; but this is not the case with Pro 23:25, which, in the resumption of the address and in expression, leans back on Pro 23:22. The author of this appendix may have met with Pro 23:23 and Pro 23:24 (although here also his style, as conformed to that of Pro 1:9, is noticeable, cf. 23b with Pro 1:2), but Pro 23:22 and Pro 23:25 are the form which he has given to them. Thus Pro 23:22-25 are a whole: - 22 Hearken to thy father, to him who hath begotten thee, And despise not thy mother when she has grown old. 23 Buy the truth, and sell it not, Wisdom and discipline and understanding. 24 The father of a righteous man rejoiceth greatly; (And) he that is the father of a wise man - he will rejoice. 25 Let thy father and thy mother be glad; And her that bare thee exult. The octastich begins with a call to childlike obedience, for שׁמע ל, to listen to any one, is equivalent to, to obey him, e.g., Psa 81:9, Psa 81:14 (cf. "hearken to his voice," Psa 95:7). זה ילדך is a relative clause (cf. Deu 32:18, without זה or אשׁר), according to which it is rightly accentuated (cf. on the contrary, Psa 78:54). 22b, strictly taken, is not to be translated neve contemne cum senuerit matrem tuam (Fleischer), but cum senuerit mater tua, for the logical object to אל־תּבוּז is attracted as subj. of זקנה (Hitzig). There now follows the exhortation comprehending all, and formed after Pro 4:7, to buy wisdom, i.e., to shun no expense, no effort, no privation, in order to attain to the possession of wisdom; and not to sell it, i.e., not to place it over against any earthly possession, worldly gain, sensual enjoyment; not to let it be taken away by any intimidation, argued away by false reasoning, or prevailed against by enticements into the way of vice, and not to become unfaithful to it by swimming with the great stream (Exo 23:2); for truth, אמת, is that which endures and proves itself in all spheres, the moral as well as the intellectual. In 23b, in like manner as Pro 1:3; Pro 22:4, a threefold object is given to קנה instead of אמת: there are three properties which are peculiar to truth, the three powers which handle it: חכמה is knowledge solid, pressing into the essence of things; מוּסר is moral culture; and בּינה the central faculty of proving and distinguishing (vid., Pro 1:3-5). Now Pro 23:24 says what consequences are for the parents when the son, according to the exhortation of Pro 23:23, makes truth his aim, to which all is subordinated. Because in אמת the ideas of practical and theoretical truth are inter-connected. צדּיק and חכם are also here parallel to one another. The Chethı̂b of 24a is גּול יגוּל, which Schultens finds tenable in view of (Arab.) jal, fut jajûlu (to turn round; Heb. to turn oneself for joy) but the Heb. usus loq. knows elsewhere only גּיל יגיל, as the Kerı̂ corrects. The lxx, misled by the Chethı̂b, translates καλῶς ἐκτρέφει (incorrect ἐκτρυφήσει), i.e., גּדּל יגדּל. In 24b, וישׂמח is of the nature of a pred. of the conclusion (cf. Gen 22:24; Psa 115:7), as if the sentence were: has one begotten a wise man, then (cf. Pro 17:21) he has joy of him; but the Kerı̂ effaces this Vav apodosis, and assigns it to יולד as Vav copul. - an unnecessary mingling of the syntactically possible, more emphatic expression. This proverbial whole now rounds itself off in Pro 23:25 by a reference to Pro 23:22 - the Optative here corresponding to the Impr. and Prohib. there: let thy father and thy mother rejoice (lxx εὐφρανέσθω), and let her that bare thee exult (here where it is possible the Optat. form ותגל).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Hearken--that is, obey (Pro 1:8; Eph 6:1). despise . . . old--Adults revere the parents whom, as children, they once obeyed.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Hearken unto thy father that begat thee,.... And who has a true and hearty affection for thee, and whatever he says is for thy good and welfare, which he studies and has at heart; and who therefore also has an authority over thee, and what he enjoins ought to be strictly regarded; and, having lived longer in the world, must be thought to have a larger experience and knowledge of things, and therefore should be hearkened unto; and despise not thy mother when she is old; despise not her counsels, instructions, and advice, though she is old; and because she is so, do not reject them as old wives' fables, or as the silly talk of an old woman, as young men are too apt to do.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
23:22-25 Saying 16: This saying is an exhortation to pursue the wisdom that a godly father and mother provide. Unlike other ancient Near East wisdom texts, Proverbs attributes wisdom to both father and mother (1:8; 6:20).
Proverbs 23:22
Saying 17
21For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags. 22Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. 23Invest in truth and never sell it— in wisdom and instruction and understanding.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Obedience - the Pathway to Blessing
By Paul Washer5.1K52:43PRO 23:22HOS 14:9ACT 5:29ROM 13:1EPH 6:1COL 3:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing and living by the Word of God. He highlights the need for individuals and families to recognize their own shortcomings and seek guidance from Scripture. The speaker also discusses the dangers of rebellion in the home and its impact on society. He encourages teenagers to embrace their responsibilities and act maturely, while also warning about the signs of the last days as described in 2 Timothy 3. The sermon emphasizes the significance of obedience and the consequences of living in a culture marked by disobedience to parents.
(Proverbs) ch.22:12 - 23:35
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:00:59Truth and IntegrityDiscipline and ParentingPRO 22:12PRO 22:15PRO 23:4PRO 23:19PRO 23:22PRO 23:24PRO 23:29Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of truth, integrity, and discipline in his sermon on Proverbs 22:12 - 23:35. He highlights that God stands with those who uphold truth and warns against the dangers of laziness, adultery, and the consequences of poor choices. Poonen stresses the need for parents to discipline their children wisely and the importance of being merciful and avoiding anger in our relationships. He encourages listeners to trust in the Lord, seek wisdom, and maintain integrity in all dealings, especially with the poor and vulnerable. The sermon concludes with a call to live a life of righteousness, avoiding the pitfalls of temptation and the allure of wealth.
Chinese New Year Promotes Filial Piety and Parental Love
By Timothy Tow1.2K24:09Parental LoveEXO 20:12PRO 23:22MAT 24:14EPH 6:1EPH 6:14COL 3:20In this sermon, the preacher announces his upcoming anniversary message on the role of a mother in a Christian home. He believes that Chinese New Year is a great opportunity to promote Christian filial piety and parental love. The sermon is based on Ephesians 6:1-4, which emphasizes the importance of children obeying their parents and fathers not provoking their children. The preacher also shares anecdotes about members of his church and their desires for long life, highlighting the significance of Chinese New Year in bringing families together to honor and bless their parents.
(Sex, Love & Marriage) 6. Finding Your Better Half
By Zac Poonen0GEN 24:14PRO 23:22MAT 11:29GAL 3:28EPH 2:10COL 3:11Zac Poonen preaches about the importance of seeking God's will in choosing a life partner, emphasizing the need to listen to God's leading and not rush into marriage decisions. He highlights the significance of being certain of God's choice, forming a balanced assessment of a potential partner, and seeking parental approval where possible. Poonen stresses the need for love, compatibility, and unity in spiritual matters, while cautioning against factors like dowry, race, culture, and haste in decision-making. He encourages waiting on God's timing, surrendering desires to Him, and maintaining a humble and patient attitude while seeking a life partner.
Homily 21 on Ephesians
By St. John Chrysostom0PRO 22:6PRO 23:22EPH 6:1COL 3:20HEB 12:9John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of children obeying and honoring their parents, as it is the first commandment with a promise of well-being and long life. He highlights the gradual progression of authority from husband to wife to children, stressing the need for children to obey their parents in the Lord, following God's commandments. Chrysostom urges fathers not to provoke their children to wrath but to nurture them in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, emphasizing the significance of spiritual upbringing over worldly wealth and status.
The Stork
By Harriet N. Cook0LEV 11:19JOB 12:7PSA 104:24PRO 23:22EPH 6:2Harriet N. Cook uses the example of the stork to emphasize the importance of kindness, care, and gratitude towards parents, drawing parallels between the stork's behavior towards its young and old ones and the way children should honor and repay their parents for their love and care. The stork's characteristics, nesting habits, and migration patterns are highlighted to showcase God's intricate design and provision for these birds, reflecting His care and wisdom in creation. Cook also delves into the significance of the stork being forbidden as food for the Jews, possibly due to its diet and symbolic representation of purity and protection.
Parents and Children
By Valsan Thampu0DEU 6:6PSA 127:3PRO 1:8PRO 22:6PRO 23:22PRO 29:15EPH 6:4COL 3:211TI 5:8Valsan Thampu delivers a powerful sermon on the impact of the spirit of alienation on parent-child relationships, emphasizing the diminishing parental authority and the increasing influence of cultural pressures on children. He highlights the tragic consequences of parental deficits, such as addiction and strained relationships, and the importance of sound parenting in promoting personal wholeness and societal health. Thampu stresses the need for parents to develop discernment, maintain spiritual vigilance, and create a healthy family culture amidst the challenges of an individualistic and materialistic society. He urges parents to stand on a spiritual foundation to counter the shifting cultural norms and ensure the stability and godliness of their family life.
The Word of Affection
By A.W. Pink0Love and SacrificeHonoring ParentsEXO 20:12PRO 23:22ISA 9:6LUK 1:28LUK 2:34JHN 3:14JHN 19:25EPH 6:1A.W. Pink emphasizes the profound love and sorrow of Mary, the mother of Jesus, as she stands by the cross witnessing her Son's suffering. He reflects on her life filled with trials and the fulfillment of Simeon's prophecy, highlighting her silent strength and unwavering presence during Christ's crucifixion. Pink also illustrates how Jesus, even in His agony, exemplified the importance of honoring one's parents by ensuring Mary's care through John, the beloved disciple. This act serves as a reminder of the responsibilities of familial love amidst spiritual duties. Ultimately, Pink calls for believers to behold Christ, the source of salvation, as Mary did, emphasizing the need for faith in Him.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
The parainesis begins anew, and the division is open to question. Pro 23:22-24 can of themselves be independent distichs; but this is not the case with Pro 23:25, which, in the resumption of the address and in expression, leans back on Pro 23:22. The author of this appendix may have met with Pro 23:23 and Pro 23:24 (although here also his style, as conformed to that of Pro 1:9, is noticeable, cf. 23b with Pro 1:2), but Pro 23:22 and Pro 23:25 are the form which he has given to them. Thus Pro 23:22-25 are a whole: - 22 Hearken to thy father, to him who hath begotten thee, And despise not thy mother when she has grown old. 23 Buy the truth, and sell it not, Wisdom and discipline and understanding. 24 The father of a righteous man rejoiceth greatly; (And) he that is the father of a wise man - he will rejoice. 25 Let thy father and thy mother be glad; And her that bare thee exult. The octastich begins with a call to childlike obedience, for שׁמע ל, to listen to any one, is equivalent to, to obey him, e.g., Psa 81:9, Psa 81:14 (cf. "hearken to his voice," Psa 95:7). זה ילדך is a relative clause (cf. Deu 32:18, without זה or אשׁר), according to which it is rightly accentuated (cf. on the contrary, Psa 78:54). 22b, strictly taken, is not to be translated neve contemne cum senuerit matrem tuam (Fleischer), but cum senuerit mater tua, for the logical object to אל־תּבוּז is attracted as subj. of זקנה (Hitzig). There now follows the exhortation comprehending all, and formed after Pro 4:7, to buy wisdom, i.e., to shun no expense, no effort, no privation, in order to attain to the possession of wisdom; and not to sell it, i.e., not to place it over against any earthly possession, worldly gain, sensual enjoyment; not to let it be taken away by any intimidation, argued away by false reasoning, or prevailed against by enticements into the way of vice, and not to become unfaithful to it by swimming with the great stream (Exo 23:2); for truth, אמת, is that which endures and proves itself in all spheres, the moral as well as the intellectual. In 23b, in like manner as Pro 1:3; Pro 22:4, a threefold object is given to קנה instead of אמת: there are three properties which are peculiar to truth, the three powers which handle it: חכמה is knowledge solid, pressing into the essence of things; מוּסר is moral culture; and בּינה the central faculty of proving and distinguishing (vid., Pro 1:3-5). Now Pro 23:24 says what consequences are for the parents when the son, according to the exhortation of Pro 23:23, makes truth his aim, to which all is subordinated. Because in אמת the ideas of practical and theoretical truth are inter-connected. צדּיק and חכם are also here parallel to one another. The Chethı̂b of 24a is גּול יגוּל, which Schultens finds tenable in view of (Arab.) jal, fut jajûlu (to turn round; Heb. to turn oneself for joy) but the Heb. usus loq. knows elsewhere only גּיל יגיל, as the Kerı̂ corrects. The lxx, misled by the Chethı̂b, translates καλῶς ἐκτρέφει (incorrect ἐκτρυφήσει), i.e., גּדּל יגדּל. In 24b, וישׂמח is of the nature of a pred. of the conclusion (cf. Gen 22:24; Psa 115:7), as if the sentence were: has one begotten a wise man, then (cf. Pro 17:21) he has joy of him; but the Kerı̂ effaces this Vav apodosis, and assigns it to יולד as Vav copul. - an unnecessary mingling of the syntactically possible, more emphatic expression. This proverbial whole now rounds itself off in Pro 23:25 by a reference to Pro 23:22 - the Optative here corresponding to the Impr. and Prohib. there: let thy father and thy mother rejoice (lxx εὐφρανέσθω), and let her that bare thee exult (here where it is possible the Optat. form ותגל).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Hearken--that is, obey (Pro 1:8; Eph 6:1). despise . . . old--Adults revere the parents whom, as children, they once obeyed.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Hearken unto thy father that begat thee,.... And who has a true and hearty affection for thee, and whatever he says is for thy good and welfare, which he studies and has at heart; and who therefore also has an authority over thee, and what he enjoins ought to be strictly regarded; and, having lived longer in the world, must be thought to have a larger experience and knowledge of things, and therefore should be hearkened unto; and despise not thy mother when she is old; despise not her counsels, instructions, and advice, though she is old; and because she is so, do not reject them as old wives' fables, or as the silly talk of an old woman, as young men are too apt to do.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
23:22-25 Saying 16: This saying is an exhortation to pursue the wisdom that a godly father and mother provide. Unlike other ancient Near East wisdom texts, Proverbs attributes wisdom to both father and mother (1:8; 6:20).