Proverbs 23:25
Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Ancient Israel honored both parents, though patriarchal culture often emphasized fathers. The law protected mothers: cursing parents brought death penalty (Exodus 21:17), striking them likewise (Exodus 21:15). Proverbs repeatedly addresses both parents (1:8; 6:20; 10:1; 15:20). Jesus condemned Pharisees who used religious loopholes to avoid supporting parents (Mark 7:9-13), demonstrating God's continued insistence on honoring both. The early church maintained family honor: Paul commanded children to obey parents (Ephesians 6:1-3; Colossians 3:20) and adults to provide for family, especially parents (1 Timothy 5:4, 8). Christian faith transformed but didn't eliminate family obligations. Church history records how Christianity elevated women's status, including mothers, compared to pagan cultures where women held minimal value.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you honor both parents through your life choices and character development?
- If your parents aren't believers, how can you bring them joy through godly living even if they don't share your faith?
- How does remembering your mother's sacrifice motivate gratitude and holy living?
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Analysis & Commentary
This verse concludes the parental joy theme, extending it to both parents. 'Thy father and thy mother shall be glad' (יִשְׂמַח־אָבִיךָ וְאִמֶּךָ/yismach-avikha ve'immekha, your father and your mother will rejoice) emphasizes both parents' shared investment in children's wisdom. 'She that bare thee shall rejoice' (וְתָגֵל יוֹלַדְתֶּךָ/vetagel yoladtekha, she who gave you birth will exult) specifically honors mothers, acknowledging their unique bond and sacrifice. This echoes the fifth commandment's dual address: 'Honour thy father and thy mother' (Exodus 20:12). Both parents deserve honor; both experience joy or grief based on children's choices. The verse motivates children toward wisdom by appealing to love and gratitude. Reformed theology emphasizes that we honor parents not because they're perfect but because God commands it and established family structure for our good.