A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the inheritance among the brethren.
A wise servant will be put in charge over a son who brings shame to his family, and will receive a share of the family inheritance along with the other children.
This verse teaches that wisdom and character matter more than birth order or social position—a faithful servant can earn greater honor than a foolish family member.
📚 Historical Context
In ancient Israel, family inheritance typically passed from father to sons according to strict birth order, with servants having no claim to family wealth. However, this proverb reflects the reality that sometimes faithful servants proved more trustworthy than biological heirs. The book of Proverbs often challenges social expectations by emphasizing that wisdom and character transcend social class.
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