Proverbs 17:21

A man fathers a fool to his own grief; the father of a fool has no joy.

Study Bible

A man fathers a fool
The Hebrew word for "fool" here is "כְּסִיל" (kesil), which often denotes someone who is morally deficient or lacking in wisdom. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wisdom was not merely intellectual but deeply tied to moral and ethical living. The act of "fathering" a fool suggests a failure in imparting wisdom and godly values, which was a significant responsibility in Hebrew culture. Fathers were expected to guide their children in the ways of the Lord, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:6-7. The grief mentioned here is profound, as it reflects a failure in fulfilling one's God-given role as a parent.

to his own grief
The Hebrew word for "grief" is "תּוּגָה" (tugah), which conveys deep sorrow or distress. This grief is not just personal but communal, as the family unit was central to Israelite society. The failure of a child to live wisely and righteously brought shame not only to the family but also to the community. In a conservative Christian perspective, this highlights the importance of raising children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, as emphasized in Ephesians 6:4. The grief is a reminder of the spiritual and emotional consequences of neglecting this duty.

the father of a fool
Reiterating the earlier phrase, this emphasizes the personal connection and responsibility of the father. In biblical times, the father was the primary educator and disciplinarian in the family. The repetition underscores the weight of responsibility on the father's shoulders. The fool's actions reflect back on the father, affecting his reputation and standing within the community. This serves as a cautionary tale for parents to diligently teach and model godly behavior.

has no joy
The absence of joy, "שִׂמְחָה" (simchah) in Hebrew, is significant. Joy in the biblical sense is often associated with righteousness and the presence of God (Psalm 16:11). The lack of joy here is not just emotional but spiritual, indicating a disruption in the relationship with God. In a conservative Christian view, this underscores the importance of raising children who walk in truth and righteousness, as this brings joy not only to the parents but also to God. The verse serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal impact of parenting and the joy that comes from seeing one's children walk in the truth (3 John 1:4).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Father
Represents a parent or guardian who has invested time, love, and resources into raising a child.

2. The Fool
In the context of Proverbs, a fool is someone who rejects wisdom and understanding, often leading to moral and spiritual failure.

3. The Family Unit
The broader context of family dynamics and the impact of individual behavior on family harmony and reputation.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Wisdom in Parenting
Parents are called to instill wisdom and godly values in their children to prevent the grief associated with foolishness.

The Consequences of Foolishness
Foolish behavior not only affects the individual but also brings sorrow to their family, highlighting the communal impact of personal choices.

The Role of Discipline and Guidance
Consistent, loving discipline and guidance are crucial in steering children away from foolishness and towards wisdom.

Seeking God’s Wisdom
Parents should seek God’s wisdom in prayer and scripture to guide their children effectively.

Hope and Redemption
Even if a child strays, there is hope for redemption and restoration through God’s grace, as seen in the account of the Prodigal Son.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of a "fool" in Proverbs 17:21 relate to the broader biblical understanding of wisdom and folly?

2. In what ways can parents actively work to prevent their children from becoming "fools" as described in this verse?

3. How can the grief of a parent with a foolish child be addressed within a church community?

4. What practical steps can parents take to instill wisdom in their children according to biblical principles?

5. How does the account of the Prodigal Son provide hope and guidance for parents dealing with wayward children?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 10:1
This verse also highlights the joy or grief a child can bring to their parents, emphasizing the importance of wisdom in children.

Ephesians 6:4
This New Testament verse advises fathers on how to raise their children, connecting the importance of upbringing to the outcomes seen in Proverbs.

Luke 15:11-32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son illustrates the grief and eventual joy of a father dealing with a wayward child, providing a account example of Proverbs 17:21.