Proverbs 17:25

25 A surly, stupid child is sheer pain to a father, a bitter pill for a mother to swallow.

Proverbs 17:25 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 17:25

A foolish son [is] a grief to his father
Because of his folly and wickedness, and the ruin he is bringing himself to; and bitterness to her that bare him;
a cause of bitterness of soul to his mother, more distressing than the bitter pains with which she brought him forth into the world. Jarchi, by the father, understands the blessed God; and by her that bare him, the congregation of Israel; to whom Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, was bitterness, who caused Israel to sin; see ( Proverbs 10:1 ) .

Proverbs 17:25 In-Context

23 The wicked take bribes under the table; they show nothing but contempt for justice.

24 The perceptive find wisdom in their own front yard; fools look for it everywhere but right here.

25 A surly, stupid child is sheer pain to a father, a bitter pill for a mother to swallow.

26 It's wrong to penalize good behavior, or make good citizens pay for the crimes of others.

27 The one who knows much says little; an understanding person remains calm.