Proverbs 6:20 Meaning: My Son, Keep Your Father’s Commandment
My son, keep your father’s commandment, and don’t forsake your mother’s teaching.
My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:
My son, keep the commandment of thy father, And forsake not the law of thy mother:
Keep, my son, the command of thy father, And leave not the law of thy mother.
My son, observe thy father's commandment, and forsake not the teaching of thy mother;
Meaning in one sentence
What does Proverbs 6:20 mean by father's commandment and mother's teaching? Discover the verse's call to honor parental wisdom as God's instruction.
Context
This verse sits in the middle of a section where Solomon warns his son about the dangers of adultery (Proverbs 6:20, 35). The chapter begins with warnings against cosigning loans, laziness, and deceit, then lists seven things God hates. Now the teacher of wisdom turns back to the family. He invokes the authority of both father and mother, not as a general reminder to obey parents, but as the foundation for the specific warning that follows. The commandment and teaching of parents are treated as a lamp and light that guide a young person away from ruin. In the culture of ancient Israel, the home was the primary place where God’s instruction was passed down, so honoring parents and honoring God were woven together.
Key Words
The Hebrew word behind “keep” is natsar. It means more than just remembering, it’s a watchful, active guarding, like a sentry who stays awake through the night. The verse asks for a protective vigilance over what your parents have taught you, not a casual nod.
The word for “commandment” (mitsvah) and “teaching” (torah) are paired carefully. Torah often refers to God’s law, but here it comes from the mother’s lips. That tells us the instruction of both parents carries real weight; they are channels of divine wisdom, not just household rules.
The verb “forsake” (natash) is also strong, it means to abandon, to let go completely. So the verse is not asking for reluctant compliance. It’s asking you to hold tightly to the truth that was planted in you by those who love you.
How Christians Read This Verse
Across Christian traditions, this verse is read with different accents. Some commentators, like Matthew Henry and John Wesley, see the father’s commandment and mother’s teaching as God’s word delivered through parents, so honoring parents is part of honoring God. Others, like John Gill, emphasize the equal authority of both mother and father, noting that children are prone to respect their father while slighting their mother. The Geneva Bible simply reads it as straightforward instruction to obey parents. The common ground is this: the family is a God-given school of wisdom, and what is taught there is meant to shape the whole life.
A common misunderstanding
Some readers assume this verse commands blind obedience to parents no matter what. But the context shows the “commandment” and “teaching” here are the moral and spiritual instruction parents pass down, specifically the wisdom that keeps a young person from self-destructive choices like adultery. In fact, Proverbs elsewhere rebukes parents who lead their children into evil (Proverbs 29:15). The call is to honor the truth you received, not to obey every parental whim.
Living This Out
This week, pay attention to the voices that shaped your faith and character. Maybe it was a parent, a grandparent, or someone who stood in that role. Is there a piece of their teaching you have let slide, something about honesty, purity, or kindness that you once took seriously but now ignore? You don’t need to make a dramatic change all at once. Just pick one small truth they taught you and let it guide a decision today.
Main takeaway: Honoring the godly wisdom your parents gave you is a way of walking in the light that keeps you from harm.
For Families
For ages 5, 8
Your parents love you and teach you what is right. Listen to them and remember what they say. It will help you make good choices.
For ages 9, 12
This verse reminds us that both mom and dad have important wisdom to share. Sometimes you might want to ignore what they say, but their instructions are like a light that keeps you safe. Even if you don't agree with everything, try to hold onto the good truth they have taught you.
Questions People Ask
Does Proverbs 6:20 mean I have to obey my parents in everything?
The verse focuses on the commandment and teaching of parents, which in context refers to moral and spiritual instruction that aligns with God's wisdom. It's about honoring the truth they passed on, not blindly following every direction, especially if it contradicts God's commands.
Why does the verse mention both father and mother separately?
In the ancient world, teaching was often viewed as the father's role, but Proverbs emphasizes the mother's authority equally. Including both shows that wisdom comes from both parents and that children should respect and listen to each.
What is the connection between this verse and the warning about adultery that follows?
The parental teaching in verses 20-23 is called a lamp and light that keeps a person from the ‘immoral woman’ (v24). So the instruction given at home is a safeguard against destructive relationships and choices.
Is this verse only for children living with their parents?
No, it applies at any age. The wisdom you received in childhood can still guide you as an adult. The verbs ‘keep’ and ‘forsake not’ suggest a lifelong commitment to hold onto that good teaching.
How does Proverbs 6:20 relate to the commandment to honor your parents (Exodus 20:12)?
This verse puts flesh on that commandment. Honoring your parents includes treasuring what they taught you. It's not just about outward respect but about letting their godly instruction shape your life.
For pastors & researchers
Hebrew interlinear, 8 commentaries & word study