Proverbs 15:20
Proverbs 15:20 in Multiple Translations
A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.
A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.
A wise son maketh a glad father; But a foolish man despiseth his mother.
A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man has no respect for his mother.
A wise son makes his father happy, but a stupid man despises his mother.
A wise sonne reioyceth the father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.
A wise son rejoiceth a father. And a foolish man is despising his mother.
A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother.
A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.
A wise son maketh a father joyful: but the foolish man despiseth his mother.
Children who are wise cause their parents to be happy; it is foolish children who despise their parents.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 15:20
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 15:20 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
בֵּ֣ן
חָ֭כָם
יְשַׂמַּח
אָ֑ב
וּ/כְסִ֥יל
אָ֝דָ֗ם
בּוֹזֶ֥ה
אִמּֽ/וֹ
בֵּ֣ן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
חָ֭כָם
châkâm
H2450
wise
Adj
יְשַׂמַּח
sâmach
H8055
to rejoice
V-Piel-Imperf-3ms
אָ֑ב
ʼâb
H1
father
N-ms
וּ/כְסִ֥יל
kᵉçîyl
H3684
fool
Conj | Adj
אָ֝דָ֗ם
ʼâdâm
H120
the man (Adam)
N-ms
בּוֹזֶ֥ה
bâzâh
H959
to despise
V-Qal
אִמּֽ/וֹ
ʼêm
H517
mother
N-fs | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 15:20
בֵּ֣ן
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
חָ֭כָם
châkâm
H2450
"wise"
Adj
This word means wise or skilled, describing someone intelligent or crafty, like a cunning man or a prudent leader.
Definition: 1) wise, wise (man) 1a) skilful (in technical work) 1b) wise (in administration) 1c) shrewd, crafty, cunning, wily, subtle 1d) learned, shrewd (class of men) 1e) prudent 1f) wise (ethically and religiously)
Usage: Occurs in 133 OT verses. KJV: cunning (man), subtil, (un-), wise((hearted), man). See also: Genesis 41:8; Proverbs 16:14; Psalms 49:11.
יְשַׂמַּח
sâmach
H8055
"to rejoice"
V-Piel-Imperf-3ms
This verb means to rejoice or be glad, often used in a religious sense, like when the Israelites rejoiced at the dedication of the temple in 1 Kings 8:66.
Definition: 1) to rejoice, be glad 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to rejoice 1a2) to rejoice (arrogantly), exult (at) 1a3) to rejoice (religiously) 1b) (Piel) to cause to rejoice, gladden, make glad 1c) (Hiphil) to cause to rejoice, gladden, make glad
Usage: Occurs in 148 OT verses. KJV: cheer up, be (make) glad, (have, make) joy(-ful), be (make) merry, (cause to, make to) rejoice, [idiom] very. See also: Exodus 4:14; Psalms 92:5; Psalms 5:12.
אָ֑ב
ʼâb
H1
"father"
N-ms
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
וּ/כְסִ֥יל
kᵉçîyl
H3684
"fool"
Conj | Adj
This Hebrew word describes a fool or someone who is stupid and silly. It is often used to describe people who reject God's wisdom. The Bible uses this word to warn against foolish behavior.
Definition: fool, stupid fellow, dullard, simpleton, arrogant one
Usage: Occurs in 69 OT verses. KJV: fool(-ish). See also: Psalms 49:11; Proverbs 19:13; Psalms 92:7.
אָ֝דָ֗ם
ʼâdâm
H120
"the man (Adam)"
N-ms
Adam was the first human, created by God and mentioned in Genesis 2:19, who married Eve and had sons including Cain, Abel, and Seth.
Definition: The first named man living at the time before the Flood, first mentioned at Gen.2.19; married to Eve (H2332); father of: Cain (H7014B), Abel (H1893) and Seth (H8352); also translated "man" at Gen.2.19,21,23; 3.8,9,20; 5.2; "mankind" at Deu.32.8; "others" at Job.31.33; Another spelling of a.dam (אָדָם "Adam" H0121) man, human being
Usage: Occurs in 526 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] another, [phrase] hypocrite, [phrase] common sort, [idiom] low, man (mean, of low degree), person. See also: Genesis 1:26; Judges 18:7; Psalms 8:5.
בּוֹזֶ֥ה
bâzâh
H959
"to despise"
V-Qal
To despise or hold in contempt, as seen in Proverbs where it warns against despising wisdom. It can also mean to be despised or worthless, as in the case of a vile person.
Definition: 1) to despise, hold in contempt, disdain 1a) (Qal) to despise, regard with contempt 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be despised 1b2) to be despicable 1b3) to be vile, worthless 1c) (Hiphil) to cause to despise Also means: ba.zoh (בָּזֹה "to despise" H0960)
Usage: Occurs in 41 OT verses. KJV: despise, disdain, contemn(-ptible), [phrase] think to scorn, vile person. See also: Genesis 25:34; Psalms 102:18; Psalms 15:4.
אִמּֽ/וֹ
ʼêm
H517
"mother"
N-fs | Suff
The Hebrew word for 'mother' is used in the Bible to describe a female parent or a maternal figure. It can also refer to the source or origin of something, such as a river or a family. In some cases, it is used figuratively to describe a person's relationship to others.
Definition: 1) mother 1a) of humans 1b) of Deborah's relationship to the people (fig.) 1c) of animals 2) point of departure or division
Usage: Occurs in 202 OT verses. KJV: dam, mother, [idiom] parting. See also: Genesis 2:24; 2 Kings 4:19; Psalms 22:10.
Study Notes — Proverbs 15:20
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 15:20 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 15:20
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 15:20
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 15:20
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 15:20
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 15:20
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 15:20
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 15:20
- Sermons on Proverbs 15:20
Context — A Gentle Answer Turns Away Wrath
18A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger calms dispute.
19The way of the slacker is like a hedge of thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway.
20A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish man despises his mother.
21Folly is joy to one who lacks judgment, but a man of understanding walks a straight path. 22Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 29:3 | A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. |
| 2 | Proverbs 10:1 | The proverbs of Solomon: A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son grief to his mother. |
| 3 | Proverbs 23:15–16 | My son, if your heart is wise, my own heart will indeed rejoice. My inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right. |
| 4 | 1 Kings 5:7 | When Hiram received Solomon’s message, he rejoiced greatly and said, “Blessed be the LORD this day! He has given David a wise son over this great people!” |
| 5 | 1 Kings 1:48 | saying, ‘Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel! Today He has provided one to sit on my throne, and my eyes have seen it.’” |
| 6 | Leviticus 19:3 | Each of you must respect his mother and father, and you must keep My Sabbaths. I am the LORD your God. |
| 7 | Proverbs 23:22 | Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. |
| 8 | 1 Kings 2:9 | Now therefore, do not hold him guiltless, for you are a wise man. You know what you ought to do to him to bring his gray head down to Sheol in blood.” |
| 9 | Philippians 2:22 | But you know Timothy’s proven worth, that as a child with his father he has served with me to advance the gospel. |
| 10 | Exodus 20:12 | Honor your father and mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you. |
Proverbs 15:20 Summary
[Proverbs 15:20 tells us that when we act wisely, we bring joy to our parents, and this is especially true when we obey and respect them, as seen in Exodus 20:12. On the other hand, when we are foolish and disobedient, we can cause them a lot of pain and sadness. By following God's commands and being wise, we can have a positive impact on our family and relationships, and this is an important part of living a godly life, as taught in Proverbs 10:1 and Ephesians 6:2-3.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the relationship between wisdom and family in Proverbs 15:20?
According to Proverbs 15:20, a wise son brings joy to his father, indicating a positive relationship between wisdom and family, as also seen in Proverbs 10:1 and Proverbs 23:24.
How does a foolish man's behavior towards his mother reflect his character?
A foolish man despises his mother, showing a lack of respect and disobedience, which is also warned against in Exodus 20:12 and Ephesians 6:2-3, highlighting the importance of honoring one's parents.
Is it only the father who benefits from a wise son, or does the mother also benefit?
Although Proverbs 15:20 specifically mentions the father, it can be inferred that a wise son would also bring joy to his mother, as a wise and obedient child would bring honor to both parents, as seen in Proverbs 23:25.
Can a person who is not wise become wise and change their relationship with their parents?
Yes, according to Proverbs 1:7 and Proverbs 9:10, wisdom can be acquired through the fear of the Lord and a willingness to learn, allowing a person to change their behavior and improve their relationships, including with their parents.
Reflection Questions
- How can I, as a child, bring joy to my parents through my actions and decisions, and what wisdom can I apply from Proverbs 15:20 to my relationships?
- In what ways do I despise or disrespect my parents, and how can I change my behavior to honor them, as commanded in Exodus 20:12 and Ephesians 6:2-3?
- What are some practical ways I can demonstrate wisdom and obedience to my parents, and how can I balance my own desires with their guidance and advice?
- How can I, as a parent, encourage and nurture wisdom in my children, and what role can I play in helping them develop a strong relationship with me and with the Lord?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 15:20
A wise son maketh a glad father,.... [See comments on Proverbs 10:1]; but a foolish man despiseth his mother; that bore him and brought him up, and perhaps was too indulgent to him; which aggravates
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 15:20
A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 15:20
Maketh a glad father, by giving him that honour and obedience which he oweth to him. Despiseth his mother; whereby he maketh her sad. See Poole "", where we have the same proverb.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 15:20
Proverbs 15:20 A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.Ver. 20. A wise son maketh a glad father.]
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 15:20
20. despiseth] and so maketh her sad, in latent contrast with the first clause of the verse.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 15:20
To “despise” a mother is to cause her the deepest grief, and is therefore not unfitly contrasted with “making a glad father.”
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 15:20
20. Maketh… glad — Gladdens. This is much the same as Proverbs 10:1, where see note.
Sermons on Proverbs 15:20
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Cry of Wisdom by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the concept of wisdom and its connection to intelligence and understanding. He highlights the complexity and intricacy of the human bod |
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Fatherly Exhortation Part 1 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith gives fatherly exhortations and advice to his son. He emphasizes the importance of not getting caught up in the crowd of drinkers and gluttons, a |
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Perilous Times Shall Come by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the truth, even at the cost of one's life. He references the story of Leonard Ravenhill, who sang praises to God |
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A Son That Brings Shame by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the speaker shares his experiences of preaching the word of God and traveling across the nation. He recalls a powerful encounter with a man who commended him for fe |
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Obedience - the Pathway to Blessing by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing and living by the Word of God. He highlights the need for individuals and families to recognize their own shortcomi |
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(Proverbs) ch.22:12 - 23:35 by Zac Poonen | Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of truth, integrity, and discipline in his sermon on Proverbs 22:12 - 23:35. He highlights that God stands with those who uphold truth and warn |
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Chinese New Year Promotes Filial Piety and Parental Love by Timothy Tow | In this sermon, the preacher announces his upcoming anniversary message on the role of a mother in a Christian home. He believes that Chinese New Year is a great opportunity to pro |