Proverbs 19:18
Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.
Original Language Analysis
יַסֵּ֣ר
Chasten
H3256
יַסֵּ֣ר
Chasten
Strong's:
H3256
Word #:
1 of 10
to chastise, literally (with blows) or figuratively (with words); hence, to instruct
בִּ֭נְךָ
thy son
H1121
בִּ֭נְךָ
thy son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 10
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
כִּי
H3588
כִּי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
3 of 10
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
יֵ֣שׁ
while there is
H3426
יֵ֣שׁ
while there is
Strong's:
H3426
Word #:
4 of 10
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
תִּקְוָ֑ה
hope
H8615
תִּקְוָ֑ה
hope
Strong's:
H8615
Word #:
5 of 10
literally a cord (as an attachment); figuratively, expectancy
הֲ֝מִית֗וֹ
for his crying
H4191
הֲ֝מִית֗וֹ
for his crying
Strong's:
H4191
Word #:
7 of 10
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
8 of 10
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
Cross References
Proverbs 13:24He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.Proverbs 29:15The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.Proverbs 22:15Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.Proverbs 29:17Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.
Historical Context
Israelite law prescribed severe consequences for persistent rebellion, reflecting how foundational family order was to covenant community health. Modern culture's rejection of discipline has produced widespread familial and social chaos.
Questions for Reflection
- Are you disciplining your children consistently and lovingly, or are you being ruled by sentiment?
- How does God's fatherly discipline of us inform how we discipline our children?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Parental discipline must be timely—'while there is hope'—suggesting both the child's moldable years and the father's opportunity to intervene before patterns become fixed. The warning 'let not thy soul spare for his crying' addresses parental sentimentality that prioritizes momentary comfort over lasting character. True love disciplines (Hebrews 12:6); false love indulges. The phrase hints at capital punishment for the incorrigibly rebellious son (Deuteronomy 21:18-21), showing how seriously God views parental authority and filial obedience. Faithful discipline, though painful in the moment, aims at the child's ultimate good and God's glory.