The Church Fathers on this verse

Proverbs 29:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

A man that loveth wisdom, rejoiceth his father: but he that maintaineth harlots, shall squander away his substance.

Douay-Rheims

אִֽישׁ־אֹהֵ֣ב חָ֭כְמָה יְשַׂמַּ֣ח אָבִ֑יו וְרֹעֶ֥ה ז֝וֹנ֗וֹת יְאַבֶּד־הֽוֹן׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

Clement of Alexandria

2nd centuryChurch Father

It is observed about the soul that honors established tradition: A man who cherishes wisdom delights his father. Just as wells that are frequently drawn from provide pure water, those that are neglected become contaminated. Likewise, only iron that is put to use retains its luster, while iron left untouched succumbs to rust. In this way, practicing one's faith fosters vitality in both body and spirit.

Ireneus (Orda)

19th centuryCommentator

A wise individual brings delight to their parents and, if they hold the position of a ruler, they bring honor to their nation; however, a sycophant merely deceives those around him, while a villain stirs discord within the city. Even a wise person who associates with a fool will find no tranquility, and they will be despised by the wicked. The integrity and fairness of a leader greatly influence their advisors and the well-being of the community; similarly, a child's education significantly impacts his future, and the discipline shown governs a servant's conduct.

Read more (56 words)

It is evident that the unrighteous causes division among people, brings shame upon themselves, and despises their own spirit, whereas the righteous earns honor and safety through the safeguarding of the Lord. Just as the path of the wicked is loathsome to the righteous, so too do the wicked harbor animosity toward those who are just.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.