Proverbs 27:11
My son, be wise, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him that reproacheth me.
Original Language Analysis
בְּ֭נִי
My son
H1121
בְּ֭נִי
My son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 7
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
לִבִּ֑י
and make my heart
H3820
לִבִּ֑י
and make my heart
Strong's:
H3820
Word #:
4 of 7
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
וְאָשִׁ֖יבָה
that I may answer
H7725
וְאָשִׁ֖יבָה
that I may answer
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
5 of 7
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
Historical Context
In ancient Near Eastern culture, a son's conduct directly reflected on his father's reputation and teaching ability. The extended family structure meant that one person's choices affected the entire household's social standing. Solomon's collection of proverbs often emphasizes this intergenerational responsibility.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your spiritual and moral conduct either gladden or grieve those who taught you God's ways?
- In what ways does your life serve as an answer to those who question the value of biblical wisdom?
- What practical areas of wisdom-living would most vindicate your parents' or mentors' investment in you?
Analysis & Commentary
My son, be wise, and make my heart glad—The Hebrew ḥākam (חָכַם, be wise) is more than intellectual knowledge; it's skillful living in the fear of the Lord (1:7). The father's joy (śāmaḥ, שָׂמַח) is tied to the son's moral choices. That I may answer him that reproacheth me reveals the apologetic dimension of wise living—a godly child vindicates parental instruction before critics.
This verse uniquely connects personal wisdom with family honor and public testimony. When children walk in wisdom, they become living arguments for God's truth, answering skeptics who mock biblical parenting (cf. 1 Timothy 3:4-5, where managing one's household well qualifies for church leadership).