What is the meaning of Proverbs 24:21?

My son

Solomon’s fatherly tone reminds us that wisdom is meant to be passed on in close, caring relationships.

• Scripture often addresses the reader this way to stress both affection and authority (Proverbs 1:8; 2:1; 3:1).

• The address invites humble teachability—an attitude echoed when Paul calls Timothy “my true son in the faith” (1 Timothy 1:2).

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fear the LORD

Reverence for God is foundational.

• “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7); everything else in life is ordered by this priority.

• Such fear combines awe, love, and obedience (Ecclesiastes 12:13; Matthew 10:28).

• Practically, fearing God keeps us from evil (Proverbs 16:6) and fuels wholehearted worship (Psalm 33:8).

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and the king

The same heart that reveres God will honor legitimate human authority.

• God ordains governing powers for our good (Romans 13:1–4).

• Honoring rulers does not compete with fearing the Lord; it expresses it (1 Peter 2:13–17).

• Even flawed leaders are to be respected while we pray for them (1 Timothy 2:1-2), trusting God’s ultimate sovereignty.

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and do not associate

Companionship shapes character.

• “Walk with the wise and you will become wise, but a companion of fools will suffer harm” (Proverbs 13:20).

• Psalm 1:1 warns against standing or sitting with those who scoff at God’s ways.

• Avoiding close partnership with the wrong crowd protects our witness and peace (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).

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with the rebellious

Rebellion here points to those who reject both divine and civil authority.

• Korah’s uprising shows where such defiance ends (Numbers 16:1-35).

• False teachers are marked by “bold and arrogant” rebellion (2 Peter 2:10).

• Associating with them risks sharing in their downfall (Proverbs 22:24-25; 1 Corinthians 15:33).

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summary

Proverbs 24:21 calls us to a balanced life of submission: revering God first, respecting earthly leaders, and steering clear of those who despise authority. Such obedience springs from faith, safeguards our hearts, and brings God’s favor on our daily walk.