Proverbs 23:13

13 Refrain not from chastening a child; for if thou beat him with the rod, he shall 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 the Lord is their redeemer; he is mighty, and will plead their cause with thee.

12 Apply thine heart to instruction, and prepare thine ears for words of discretion.

13 Refrain not from chastening a child; for if thou beat him with the rod, he shall not die.

14 For thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from death.

15 Son, if thy heart be wise, thou shalt also gladden my heart;