Proverbs 23:13
Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die.
In context
10 Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, 11 for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you.
12 Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge. 13 Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you punish them with the rod, they will not die. 14 Punish them with the rod and save them from death.
15 My son, if your heart is wise, then my heart will be glad indeed; 16 my inmost being will rejoice when your lips speak what is right.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 23:13 in the KJV
Withhold not correction from the child: For if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die.
- ESV English Standard Version
— Proverbs 23:13 in the ESV
Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you strike him with a rod, he will not die.