Proverbs 23:14

14 Physical discipline may well save them from death.

Proverbs 23:14 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 23:14

Thou shall beat him with the rod
Or, correct him with the stripes of the children of men, in a moderate and suitable manner, proportionable to the fault committed; and as he is able to bear it, both as to body and mind; and shalt deliver his soul from hell;
be a means of preventing those sins which would bring to hell and destruction; and of bringing to repentance for those committed; and so of saving his soul, which should be the chief thing parents should have in view in chastising their children; the salvation of whose souls should be dear unto them, as it is to all truly gracious and thoughtful ones.

Proverbs 23:14 In-Context

12 Commit yourself to instruction; listen carefully to words of knowledge.

13 Don’t fail to discipline your children. The rod of punishment won’t kill them.

14 Physical discipline may well save them from death.

15 My child, if your heart is wise, my own heart will rejoice!

16 Everything in me will celebrate when you speak what is right.

Footnotes

• [a]. Hebrew from Sheol.