A wise child brings joy to the family, while folly shows itself in contempt and dishonor.
Another family theme follows in Proverbs 15:20: A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother (v. 20). Wisdom or folly in a child affects the whole household.
A wise son gladdens his father because wisdom is relationally fruitful. Parents rejoice when they see righteousness, humility, and maturity taking root in the next generation. Such gladness is deeper than pride in success; it is joy in character.
By contrast, a foolish man despises his mother. Folly is not just immaturity; it becomes contemptuous. It rejects the love and instruction that should be honored. The verse reminds us that wisdom expresses itself in honoring close relationships, while folly corrodes them.
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Proverbs 15:20 meaning
Another family theme follows in Proverbs 15:20: A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother (v. 20). Wisdom or folly in a child affects the whole household.
A wise son gladdens his father because wisdom is relationally fruitful. Parents rejoice when they see righteousness, humility, and maturity taking root in the next generation. Such gladness is deeper than pride in success; it is joy in character.
By contrast, a foolish man despises his mother. Folly is not just immaturity; it becomes contemptuous. It rejects the love and instruction that should be honored. The verse reminds us that wisdom expresses itself in honoring close relationships, while folly corrodes them.