4 Maccabees 2:12

12 It takes precedence over love for children, so that one punishes them for misdeeds.

4 Maccabees 2:12 In-Context

10 For the law prevails even over affection for parents, so that virtue is not abandoned for their sakes.

11 It is superior to love for one's wife, so that one rebukes her when she breaks the law.

12 It takes precedence over love for children, so that one punishes them for misdeeds.

13 It is sovereign over the relationship of friends, so that one rebukes friends when they act wickedly.

14 Do not consider it paradoxical when reason, through the law, can prevail even over enmity. The fruit trees of the enemy are not cut down, but one preserves the property of enemies from marauders and helps raise up what has fallen.