Proverbs 19:13 - A foolish son is the calamity of his father. A wife’s quarrels are a continual dripping.

Generated Verse: Proverbs 19:13

What does "Proverbs 19:13" mean?


Proverbs 19:13 uses vivid imagery to convey two distinct points about family life:

"A foolish son is the calamity of his father." This means that a son who lacks wisdom, makes poor choices, and acts irresponsibly brings trouble, sorrow, and hardship upon his father. The word "calamity" emphasizes the significant distress and misfortune caused by the son's actions. In ancient times, a son's behavior reflected directly on the family's honor and reputation, and a foolish son could damage both. This highlights the importance of raising children with wisdom and guiding them to make sound decisions.

"A wife’s quarrels are a continual dripping." This compares a constantly arguing or complaining wife to the relentless annoyance of water dripping. The constant bickering and strife are irritating, persistent, and wear down the husband and the relationship. The "continual dripping" emphasizes the never-ending nature of the conflict and its eroding effect. It suggests that constant nagging and fighting can be just as damaging as a major conflict.

In essence, the verse highlights two potential sources of misery within a family: a son's foolish behavior and a wife's quarrelsome nature. Both cause ongoing trouble and distress, reminding readers of the importance of wisdom, responsible behavior, and peaceful communication in maintaining a healthy and harmonious family life.

What categories does "Proverbs 19:13" have?