A Fool

Proverbs 17:21 He that begetted a fool does it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool has no joy. 

This proverb speaks to the profound pain and disappointment that a parent may experience when a child grows up to be irresponsible. In biblical wisdom literature, a fool is not simply someone lacking intelligence, but someone who rejects wisdom, moral discipline, and the fear of God. The consequences of such a life, marked by rebellion, impulsiveness, pride, and immorality, bring grief to those closest to them, especially their parents.

The phrase “He that begetted a fool does it to his sorrow” emphasises the heartache of a father or mother who sees their child grow into a disgrace. The Hebrew word used for “fool” here is keciyl (כְּסִיל, H3684), which often refers to someone who is morally dull, arrogant, and resistant to correction, someone who mocks at sin and persists in destructive behaviour despite warnings.

The keciyl (fool) is not just thoughtless but willfully ignorant and often vulgar in conduct. To “beget” such a person, to have raised or given birth to them, is to invite deep sorrow. The sorrow is not only personal but also social and spiritual. The parent suffers shame and concern for their child’s well-being. This is especially true in a cultural context like ancient Israel’s, where family honour and obedience to God were tightly interwoven.

The second half – “the father of a fool has no joy” – reinforces this emotional weight. A child is generally expected to be a source of pride and comfort to his parents, especially in later years. But when the child is a fool, disrespectful, lawless, or morally bankrupt, the father finds himself robbed of that joy. Instead of rejoicing in his son’s growth, he bears the burden of shame and heartache.

This proverb, then, serves both as a lament and a warning: It is a lament for parents whose children bring them grief through foolish choices. It is a warning to children and young people: the way you live your life affects not only you, but those who love you most.

It also underscores the importance of early moral training, godly parenting, and the shaping of character. Wisdom in the heart of a child brings gladness to the home, but foolishness leads to sorrow that words cannot fully express.