Proverbs 20:20-21 – Honoring parents

Filial piety is differently demonstrated in diverse cultures. Regardless of which culture we may be, Proverbs 20:20 has this to say, “He who curses his father or his mother, his lamp will go out in time of darkness.” Loving parents and honoring them is a clear demonstration of a child’s obedience to them. To curse them is inconceivable. So, the Word of God guarantees sure punishment to those who will dishonour their parents.

The Bible makes it clear that cursing them is a no-no. One will do so at his or her own peril. In Moses’ days, it was a capital crime to curse one’s parents. A person who denigrates his parents will receive divine retribution. He or she will find himself or herself surrounded by deep darkness with no avenue of escape. Figuratively speaking, the word “lamp” refers to prosperity and happiness. A son who dishonours his parents will find his lamp extinguished. He will have no fame or reputation neither will his posterity.

Verse 21 states clearly that that there is no lasting value to a get-rich-quick scheme in life. Asset obtained via such scheme will also dissipate just as quickly as they had been attained. So, we are told that “An inheritance gained hurriedly at the beginning will not be blessed in the end.” Just like the prodigal son in Jesus’ parable, is a person who loves the father’s goods but does not love the father. What is hurriedly hassled will not last. They will be squandered just as quickly. In relation to verse 20, this verse suggests that an unfilial son, who will cheat his parents out of their possession in old age, does not consider the plight of his parents. How he prematurely obtains the inheritance he will destroy it just as prematurely.  

We must always remember parents may not be perfect, but they are God’s perfect gifts to us. So, cherish them for who they are. Remember the seventh commandment of God given through Moses. So “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the Lord your God gives you.” We must obey them when we are young, love them when they are old and always find time to honour and look after them. They look after us when we were young, so we must take care of them when they are old.