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Proverbs 13

25 verses

TL;DR

Proverbs 13 contrasts wisdom and folly, showing how the righteous prosper and the wicked suffer, emphasizing the importance of listening to instruction, diligent work, and disciplined parenting.

Summary

The chapter begins by highlighting the benefits of a wise son who listens to his father versus a scorner who rejects rebuke. It continues with observations on how a man’s good conduct yields good fruit while transgressors suffer violence, and how careful speech preserves life whereas careless words lead to destruction. The contrast between the diligent and the sluggard shows that hard work brings abundance while idleness leaves one empty. Righteousness is portrayed as the guard against wickedness, with the wicked brought low and the righteous rewarded. The chapter concludes with admonitions on discipline, the value of instruction, and the lasting impact of one’s choices on future generations.

Outline
  1. The importance of listening, speech, and discipline.
  2. The consequences of diligence versus sloth and wisdom versus folly.
  3. The rewards of righteousness and the penalties of wickedness.
Themes
Wisdom vs. FollyConsequences of RighteousnessDiscipline and Parenting
Keywords
wisdomfoolrighteouswickeddisciplineinstructionwealthlabourreproofrods
People
fathersonmanrighteous manwicked manprudent manfoolambassador
Places
Things
wisdominstructiondisciplinewealthricheslabourrodsreproofknowledge
Key Verses
  • Proverbs 13:3: Illustrates the life‑saving power of careful speech.
  • Proverbs 13:15: Shows how good understanding brings favor and success.
  • Proverbs 13:24: Emphasizes the necessity of firm but loving discipline.
  • Proverbs 13:22: Highlights the long‑term blessings of a good legacy.
Questions
  • What does Proverbs 13 teach about the role of discipline in child‑rearing?
  • How does the chapter portray the relationship between wealth and righteousness?
  • In what ways does speech impact one’s life according to this chapter?
  • Why is diligence contrasted with sloth, and what are the outcomes?
  • How does this chapter define a good legacy for future generations?
Sentiment

mixed
The text praises wisdom and righteousness while condemning folly and wickedness.