Proverbs 23:14

14 You shall beat him with a rod, And deliver his soul from hell.

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 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;

16 Yes, my inmost being will rejoice When your lips speak right things.

Footnotes

• [a] Or Sheol