Proverbs 28:24
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 28:24
24 Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion of a destroyer.
Chapter Context
Proverbs 28 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, judgment, hope. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 28:24
24 Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression; the same is the companion of a destroyer.
Analysis
Whoso robbeth his father or his mother, and saith, It is no transgression (גּוֹזֵל אָבִיו וְאִמּוֹ וְאֹמֵר אֵין־פָּשַׁע, gozel aviv ve'immo ve'omer ein-pasha)—גָּזַל (gazal, 'to rob, plunder, tear away violently') from אָב (av, 'father') and אֵם (em, 'mother') while claiming אֵין פֶּשַׁע (ein pesha, 'no transgression, no sin') reveals radical moral blindness. Jesus condemned the Corban tradition that evaded parental support (Mark 7:9-13): 'Ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban... he shall be free.'
The same is the companion of a destroyer (חָבֵר הוּא לְאִישׁ מַשְׁחִית, chaver hu le'ish mashchit)—חָבֵר (chaver, 'companion, associate, partner') with אִישׁ מַשְׁחִית (ish mashchit, 'man of destruction, one who ruins/destroys'). Such behavior aligns one with those who tear down rather than build. The fifth commandment (Exodus 20:12) promises long life for honoring parents; this proverb shows the inverse—robbing parents associates one with death-dealers.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern societies considered parental care a sacred duty. Adult children supported aging parents who had no social security system. Jesus's anger at Corban abuse (first-century Pharisaic loophole allowing vows to temple to override parental support) shows how seriously He took this command. Paul echoes it: 'If any provide not for his own... he hath denied the faith' (1 Timothy 5:8).
Reflection
- Are you caring for your aging parents according to biblical commands, or finding loopholes?
- What rationalizations might you use to justify withholding support or honor from parents?
- How does proper honor of parents reflect honoring God, who commands it?
Word Studies
- Transgression: פֶּשַׁע (Pesha) H6588 - Transgression, rebellion
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 18:9, 19:26, 28:7, Judges 17:2