He that begetteth a fool doeth it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool hath no joy.
Anyone who raises a foolish child brings sorrow upon themselves, and the parent of a fool finds no happiness.
This verse is saying that parents suffer heartbreak when their children make consistently foolish choices and reject wisdom.
📚 Historical Context
Proverbs is a book of wisdom literature in the Old Testament, attributed mainly to King Solomon, who was renowned for his God-given wisdom and served as a king of Israel around 970-930 BC. In ancient Israelite culture, family lineage and the moral character of children were highly valued, as a foolish child could bring shame and disrupt the family's social and spiritual standing. This verse fits into the broader theme of Proverbs, which uses everyday observations to warn about the consequences of folly and the importance of wise living.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.