Book of Proverbs - Chapter 17 - Verse 21

This verse from the book of Proverbs in the Bible highlights the consequences of raising a foolish child. It suggests that a parent who brings a fool into the world will ultimately regret it and experience sorrow as a result. The verse emphasizes the idea that the actions and behaviors of a foolish child can lead to disappointment and pain for the parent. Furthermore, it mentions that the father of a fool will have no joy, indicating that the presence of a foolish child can bring sadness and frustration to their parent. This verse serves as a warning about the importance of raising children with wisdom and teaching them to make good choices in order to avoid potential hardship and unhappiness in the future.

The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the consequences of foolishness on both the individual and their family. The act of begetting a fool, or raising a foolish child, leads to sorrow for the parent as they see their offspring make unwise decisions and face the repercussions. The father of a fool is described as having no joy, highlighting the disappointment and heartache that comes from watching a child make foolish choices. This can be seen as a warning against neglecting the importance of raising children in a way that instills wisdom and understanding. In a broader theological sense, the verse can be interpreted as a reminder of the impact of our actions on ourselves and those around us, urging us to seek wisdom and discernment in all that we do.