Proverbs 23:13

13 Do not withhold correction from a child, For if you beat him with a rod, he will not die.

Proverbs 23:13 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 23:13

Withhold not correction from the child
When he has committed a fault, and correction is necessary; for to spare it is the ruin of the child, and no proof of true affection in the parent, but the reverse; see ( Proverbs 13:24 ) ( 19:18 ) ; for, [if] thou beatest him with a rod, he shall not die;
if he be beaten moderately, there is no danger of his dying under the rod, or with the stripes given him; besides, such moderate and proper corrections may be a means of preserving him from such crimes as would bring him to a shameful and untimely death, and so he shall not die such a death; and by such means, through the grace of God, he may escape the second, or eternal death.

Proverbs 23:13 In-Context

11 For their Redeemer is mighty; He will plead their cause against you.
12 Apply your heart to instruction, And your ears to words of knowledge.
13 Do not withhold correction from a child, For if you beat him with a rod, he will not die.
14 You shall beat him with a rod, And deliver his soul from hell.
15 My son, if your heart is wise, My heart will rejoice--indeed, I myself;
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.