Proverbs 28:24 - Whoever robs his father or his mother, and says, “It’s not wrong.” He is a partner with a destroyer.

Generated Verse: Proverbs 28:24

What does "Proverbs 28:24" mean?


This verse from Proverbs 28:24 is a strong condemnation of those who steal from their parents and then try to justify their actions. Let's break down the meaning:

"Whoever robs his father or his mother...": This directly addresses the act of stealing from one's parents. It's important to note that this could be literal theft (taking money or possessions) or more subtle forms of manipulation or exploitation that deprive parents of what is rightfully theirs.

"...and says, 'It's not wrong.'": This part highlights the brazenness and moral corruption of the offender. They are not just committing the act but are also attempting to rationalize it, likely to ease their conscience or justify their behavior to others. This self-deception is a key element. They are denying the inherent wrongness of their actions, and perhaps redefining their behavior to alleviate guilt.

"He is a partner with a destroyer.": This is the crux of the verse and reveals the severe consequences. The "destroyer" is often interpreted as a reference to:

Moral/Social Decay: Stealing from parents fundamentally undermines the family structure, which is the bedrock of society. This act of betrayal and disrespect contributes to the breakdown of moral values and social order.
Spiritual/Eternal Destruction: Some interpretations connect the "destroyer" to a more explicitly evil force or principle, implying that such actions are aligned with destructive powers that lead to ruin and condemnation.
Self-Destruction: The person who commits such an act is ultimately destroying themself. Their character is being corrupted, and they are likely to face negative consequences in their relationships, finances, and overall well-being.
The Devil: In some traditions, "destroyer" is a direct reference to the devil (e.g., Revelation 9:11), connecting the action to ultimate evil.

In essence, the verse is saying:

Stealing from your parents, and then trying to excuse it, is not a minor offense. It's a serious act that has far-reaching consequences. It puts you in league with destructive forces, contributing to the breakdown of family, morality, and ultimately, your own well-being. The act is a betrayal of trust, a rejection of filial piety, and a sign of deep moral decay.

Key takeaways:

Respect for Parents: The verse emphasizes the importance of honoring and respecting parents, which includes safeguarding their property and well-being.
Moral Accountability: It warns against justifying wrong actions and underscores the importance of honesty and integrity.
Consequences of Sin: It highlights the destructive nature of sin and its potential to lead to personal and societal ruin.
The Severity of Greed and Selfishness: Ultimately, this verse calls out greed and selfishness, especially when directed towards one's own parents.

The proverb warns against downplaying moral transgressions, especially when they involve those closest to us. It advocates for honesty, integrity, and a deep respect for family relationships.