Hebrews 12:11
New International Version
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

New Living Translation
No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.

English Standard Version
For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

Berean Standard Bible
No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it.

Berean Literal Bible
And all discipline indeed for those being present, does not seem to be of joy, but of grief; but afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those having been trained by it.

King James Bible
Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

New King James Version
Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

New American Standard Bible
For the moment, all discipline seems not to be pleasant, but painful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

NASB 1995
All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

NASB 1977
All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

Legacy Standard Bible
And all discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful, but to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

Amplified Bible
For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems sad and painful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness [right standing with God and a lifestyle and attitude that seeks conformity to God’s will and purpose].

Christian Standard Bible
No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the fruit of peace and righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

American Standard Version
All chastening seemeth for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yieldeth peaceable fruit unto them that have been exercised thereby, even the fruit of righteousness.

Contemporary English Version
It is never fun to be corrected. In fact, at the time it is always painful. But if we learn to obey by being corrected, we will do right and live at peace.

English Revised Version
All chastening seemeth for the present to be not joyous, but grievous: yet afterward it yieldeth peaceable fruit unto them that have been exercised thereby, even the fruit of righteousness.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
We don't enjoy being disciplined. It always seems to cause more pain than joy. But later on, those who learn from that discipline have peace that comes from doing what is right.

Good News Translation
When we are punished, it seems to us at the time something to make us sad, not glad. Later, however, those who have been disciplined by such punishment reap the peaceful reward of a righteous life.

International Standard Version
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, for those who have been trained by it, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace.

Majority Standard Bible
No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it.

NET Bible
Now all discipline seems painful at the time, not joyful. But later it produces the fruit of peace and righteousness for those trained by it.

New Heart English Bible
All discipline seems for the moment painful, not joyful; yet afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been exercised thereby.

Webster's Bible Translation
Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless, afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness to them who are exercised by it.

Weymouth New Testament
Now, at the time, discipline seems to be a matter not for joy, but for grief; yet it afterwards yields to those who have passed through its training a result full of peace--namely, righteousness.

World English Bible
All chastening seems for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
and all discipline for the present, indeed, does not seem to be of joy, but of sorrow, yet afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those exercised through it.

Berean Literal Bible
And all discipline indeed for those being present, does not seem to be of joy, but of grief; but afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those having been trained by it.

Young's Literal Translation
and all chastening for the present, indeed, doth not seem to be of joy, but of sorrow, yet afterward the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those exercised through it -- it doth yield.

Smith's Literal Translation
And truly every correction for the present seems not to be for joy, but grief: and later it returns the peaceful fruit of justice to them being exercised by it.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Now all chastisement for the present indeed seemeth not to bring with it joy, but sorrow: but afterwards it will yield, to them that are exercised by it, the most peaceable fruit of justice.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Now every discipline, in the present time, does not seem a gladness, of course, but a grief. But afterwards, it will repay a most peaceful fruit of justice to those who become trained in it.

New American Bible
At the time, all discipline seems a cause not for joy but for pain, yet later it brings the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who are trained by it.

New Revised Standard Version
Now, discipline always seems painful rather than pleasant at the time, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
No discipline, at the time, is expected to be a thing of joy, but of sorrow; but in the end it produces the fruits of peace and righteousness to those who are trained by it.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
But no discipline in its time seems to be joyful, but it is sorrowful; but in the end it yields the fruit of peace and of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
But no chastisement seems, at the time, to be a matter of joy, but of grief: yet afterward, it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who are exercised by it.

Godbey New Testament
Indeed no chastisement for the present seems to be truly joyful, but sorrowful: but afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to them who have been disciplined by it.

Haweis New Testament
Now all correction at the moment seemeth not to be cause for joy, but for sorrow; but after a while it produceth peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have thereby been disciplined.

Mace New Testament
'tis true, all correction at first is far from appearing agreeable, yet afterward it produces the agreeable fruits of virtue in those who are exercised thereby.

Weymouth New Testament
Now, at the time, discipline seems to be a matter not for joy, but for grief; yet it afterwards yields to those who have passed through its training a result full of peace--namely, righteousness.

Worrell New Testament
All chastening, indeed, for the present seems not to be joyous, but grievous; but afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained thereby.

Worsley New Testament
Now no chastening seems for the present to be matter of joy but of grief: and yet afterwards it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those that are exercised thereby.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
God Disciplines His Sons
10Our fathers disciplined us for a short time as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness. 11 No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it. 12Therefore strengthen your limp hands and weak knees.…

Cross References
Proverbs 3:11-12
My son, do not reject the discipline of the LORD, and do not loathe His rebuke; / for the LORD disciplines the one He loves, as does a father the son in whom he delights.

James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, / because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. / Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Romans 5:3-5
Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; / perseverance, character; and character, hope. / And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.

2 Corinthians 4:17
For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory that is far beyond comparison.

Psalm 94:12
Blessed is the man You discipline, O LORD, and teach from Your law,

1 Peter 1:6-7
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials / so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Revelation 3:19
Those I love I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent.

Job 5:17-18
Blessed indeed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. / For He wounds, but He also binds; He strikes, but His hands also heal.

2 Timothy 3:16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, / so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work.

Psalm 119:67
Before I was afflicted, I went astray; but now I keep Your word.

1 Corinthians 11:32
But when we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world.

Deuteronomy 8:5
So know in your heart that just as a man disciplines his son, so the LORD your God disciplines you.

Lamentations 3:27-28
It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is still young. / Let him sit alone in silence, for the LORD has laid it upon him.

Galatians 6:9
Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Psalm 119:71
It was good for me to be afflicted, that I might learn Your statutes.


Treasury of Scripture

Now no chastening for the present seems to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to them which are exercised thereby.

no chastening.

Psalm 89:32
Then will I visit their transgression with the rod, and their iniquity with stripes.

Psalm 118:18
The LORD hath chastened me sore: but he hath not given me over unto death.

Proverbs 15:10
Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way: and he that hateth reproof shall die.

nevertheless.

Hebrews 12:5,6,10
And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: …

peaceable.

Psalm 119:165
Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.

Isaiah 32:17
And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.

Romans 5:3-5
And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; …

exercised.

Hebrews 5:14
But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

1 Timothy 4:7,8
But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness…

2 Peter 2:14
Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children:

Jump to Previous
Afterward Afterwards Chastening Discipline Exercised Fruit Full Grief Grievous However Joy Joyful Joyous Matter Moment Namely Nevertheless Pain Painful Passed Peace Peaceable Peaceful Pleasant Present Produces Punishment Rather Result Righteousness Seemeth Seems Thereby Time Trained Training Yieldeth Yields
Jump to Next
Afterward Afterwards Chastening Discipline Exercised Fruit Full Grief Grievous However Joy Joyful Joyous Matter Moment Namely Nevertheless Pain Painful Passed Peace Peaceable Peaceful Pleasant Present Produces Punishment Rather Result Righteousness Seemeth Seems Thereby Time Trained Training Yieldeth Yields
Hebrews 12
1. An exhortation to constant faith, patience, and godliness by Christ's example
22. A commendation of the new covenant.














No discipline
The Greek word for "discipline" here is "παιδεία" (paideia), which encompasses the idea of education, training, and correction. In the ancient world, this term was often used to describe the comprehensive training of a child, which included moral and ethical instruction. From a biblical perspective, discipline is not merely punitive but is intended for growth and maturity. It reflects God's loving guidance, akin to a parent nurturing a child towards maturity and wisdom.

seems enjoyable
The word "seems" in Greek is "δοκεῖ" (dokei), which implies an appearance or perception. This suggests that our immediate perception of discipline is often misleading. The term "enjoyable" translates from "χαρᾶς" (charas), meaning joy or delight. The verse acknowledges the natural human tendency to resist correction and the initial discomfort it brings. However, this perception is contrasted with the ultimate purpose and benefit of discipline.

at the time
This phrase emphasizes the temporal nature of the discomfort associated with discipline. The Greek "πρὸς τὸ παρόν" (pros to paron) indicates something that is present or immediate. It serves as a reminder that the challenges and discomforts we face are temporary and part of a larger divine plan. This perspective encourages believers to endure present hardships with the hope of future benefits.

but painful
The Greek word "λυπηρὸν" (lyperon) means grievous or sorrowful. This acknowledges the reality of suffering and discomfort that comes with discipline. The Bible does not shy away from the truth that following God's path can be challenging and may involve trials. However, this pain is purposeful, serving as a refining process that shapes character and faith.

Later on, however
The phrase "Later on" is translated from "ὕστερον" (hysteron), indicating a future time. This points to the eventual outcome and the long-term perspective that believers are encouraged to adopt. The word "however" introduces a contrast, highlighting the transformation from present pain to future gain. It reassures believers that their current struggles are not in vain.

it yields a harvest
The term "yields" comes from the Greek "ἀποδίδωσιν" (apodidosin), meaning to give back or produce. The imagery of a "harvest" suggests abundance and fruition, drawing from agricultural metaphors common in Scripture. This reflects the principle of sowing and reaping, where the efforts and endurance in the face of discipline result in spiritual growth and blessings.

of righteousness and peace
"Righteousness" in Greek is "δικαιοσύνης" (dikaiosynes), referring to a state of being right with God, embodying His standards and character. "Peace" is "εἰρήνης" (eirēnēs), denoting a sense of wholeness and harmony. Together, these terms encapsulate the ultimate goal of divine discipline: to cultivate a life that reflects God's holiness and experiences His peace, both internally and in relationships with others.

to those who have been trained by it
The phrase "trained by it" uses the Greek "γεγυμνασμένοις" (gegymnasmenois), which is related to the word "gymnasium," indicating rigorous training or exercise. This suggests that spiritual discipline requires active participation and perseverance. The process of being "trained" implies ongoing development and commitment, leading to spiritual maturity and readiness to fulfill God's purposes.

(11) Now no chastening . . .--Better (the reading being slightly changed), All chastening seemeth for the present time to be not joyous, but grievous. The language, so far, would seem to be perfectly general, relating to all chastening, whether human or divine. The following clause may seem to confine our thought to the latter; but, with a lower sense of "righteousness," the maxim is true of the wise discipline of earthly parents.

The peaceable fruit of righteousness.--Better, peaceful fruit, (fruit) of righteousness, to them that have been trained thereby. The "peaceful" fruit stands in contrast with the unrest and trouble which have preceded during the time of "chastening." But there is more than rest after conflict, for the object of the conflict is attained; the fruit consists in righteousness. (Comp. Isaiah 32:17; Proverbs 11:30; James 3:17; Philippians 1:11.) It has been sometimes supposed that in the word "trained" the writer returns to the figure of Hebrews 12:4; but this is not probable. . . .

Verse 11. - Now no chastening seemeth for the present to be joyous, but grievous (literally, not of joy, but of grief): nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness to them which have been exercised thereby. This is a general statement with respect to all chastening, though the expression of its result at the end of the verse is suggested by the thought of Divine chastening, to which alone it is certainly, and in the full sense of the words, applicable. "Of righteousness" is a genitive of apposition; δικαιοσύνη is the peaceable fruit yielded by παιδεία. And the word here surely denotes actual righteousness in ourselves; not merely justification in what is called the forensic sense: the proper effect of chastening is to make us good, and so at peace with our own conscience and with God. It is by no means thus implied that we can be accepted and so have peace on the ground of our own imperfect righteousness; only that it is in the fruits of faith perfected by discipline that we may "know that we are of the truth, and assure our hearts before him" (cf. James 3:18, "The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace;" also Isaiah 32:17, "And the work of righteousness shall be peace").

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
No
οὐ (ou)
Adverb
Strong's 3756: No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.

discipline
παιδεία (paideia)
Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3809: From paideuo; tutorage, i.e. Education or training; by implication, disciplinary correction.

seems
δοκεῖ (dokei)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1380: A prolonged form of a primary verb, doko dok'-o of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem.

enjoyable
χαρᾶς (charas)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 5479: Joy, gladness, a source of joy. From chairo; cheerfulness, i.e. Calm delight.

at
πρὸς (pros)
Preposition
Strong's 4314: To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.

the
τὸ (to)
Article - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

time,
παρὸν (paron)
Verb - Present Participle Active - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3918: From para and eimi; to be near, i.e. At hand; neuter present participle time being, or property.

but
ἀλλὰ (alla)
Conjunction
Strong's 235: But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.

painful.
λύπης (lypēs)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 3077: Pain, grief, sorrow, affliction. Apparently a primary word; sadness.

Later on,
ὕστερον (hysteron)
Adverb
Strong's 5305: Lastly, afterward, later. Neuter of husteros as adverb; more lately, i.e. Eventually.

however,
δὲ (de)
Conjunction
Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc.

it yields
ἀποδίδωσιν (apodidōsin)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 591: From apo and didomi; to give away, i.e. Up, over, back, etc.

a peaceful
εἰρηνικὸν (eirēnikon)
Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 1516: Peaceable, disposed to peace, profitable. From eirene; pacific; by implication, salutary.

harvest
καρπὸν (karpon)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2590: Probably from the base of harpazo; fruit, literally or figuratively.

of righteousness
δικαιοσύνης (dikaiosynēs)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 1343: From dikaios; equity; specially justification.

to those who
τοῖς (tois)
Article - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

have been trained
γεγυμνασμένοις (gegymnasmenois)
Verb - Perfect Participle Middle or Passive - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1128: To train by physical exercise; hence: train, in the widest sense. From gumnos; to practise naked, i.e. Train.

by
δι’ (di’)
Preposition
Strong's 1223: A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.

it.
αὐτῆς (autēs)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Feminine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.


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NT Letters: Hebrews 12:11 All chastening seems for the present (Heb. He. Hb)
Hebrews 12:10
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