Proverbs 3:12

Authorized King James Version

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For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.

Original Language Analysis

כִּ֤י H3588
כִּ֤י
Strong's: H3588
Word #: 1 of 10
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
אֶ֥ת H853
אֶ֥ת
Strong's: H853
Word #: 2 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
אֲשֶׁ֣ר H834
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
Strong's: H834
Word #: 3 of 10
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
יֶאֱהַ֣ב loveth H157
יֶאֱהַ֣ב loveth
Strong's: H157
Word #: 4 of 10
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
יְהוָ֣ה For whom the LORD H3068
יְהוָ֣ה For whom the LORD
Strong's: H3068
Word #: 5 of 10
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
יוֹכִ֑יחַ he correcteth H3198
יוֹכִ֑יחַ he correcteth
Strong's: H3198
Word #: 6 of 10
to be right (i.e., correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict
וּ֝כְאָ֗ב even as a father H1
וּ֝כְאָ֗ב even as a father
Strong's: H1
Word #: 7 of 10
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
אֶת H853
אֶת
Strong's: H853
Word #: 8 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
בֵּ֥ן the son H1121
בֵּ֥ן the son
Strong's: H1121
Word #: 9 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
יִרְצֶֽה׃ in whom he delighteth H7521
יִרְצֶֽה׃ in whom he delighteth
Strong's: H7521
Word #: 10 of 10
to be pleased with; specifically, to satisfy a debt

Analysis & Commentary

Divine discipline proves sonship and covenant relationship (Hebrews 12:6-8). The Hebrew 'yakah' (corrects) implies not vindictive punishment but pedagogical reproof aimed at restoration. God's fatherly love is demonstrated precisely through discipline that conforms us to Christ's image, evidencing His commitment to our sanctification.

Historical Context

Ancient Near Eastern fathers held absolute authority over households, including corporal discipline. Yet Israel's God transcends human fatherhood by disciplining in perfect wisdom and love, always for the child's ultimate good.

Questions for Reflection