Definition: He that begetteth a fool [doeth it] to his sorrow: and the father of a fool hath no joy.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this proverb from Proverbs 17:21. It’s a really insightful one about how our actions can affect those around us, especially children. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse basically says that trying to make someone foolish is ultimately harmful and creates unhappiness for everyone involved – including the person trying to do it. It suggests that acting with malice or a desire to cause pain often leads to negative consequences. Let's unpack the meaning piece by piece: "He who begetteth a fool..." - This refers to someone who intentionally tries to teach or guide someone poorly, to make them think incorrectly or in a bad way. It’s about deliberately attempting to ruin someone's understanding. "...doeth it to his sorrow:" – This is the core of the warning. Trying to trick or mislead someone causes unhappiness and pain for them . It's not just a simple mistake; it's a deliberate effort that results in negative feelings. "And the father of a fool hath no joy." - This is the punchline. It’s saying that the person who deliberately tries to make someone foolish – their own father – doesn’t experience happiness or contentment because of it. Their actions create a cycle of unhappiness. So, what does this mean practically? It's a strong warning against trying to control or manipulate others. It encourages us to: Think before you act: Consider the consequences of your actions on those around you. Don’t intentionally cause pain: We should strive for kindness and understanding, rather than attempting to make someone feel foolish. Focus on helping people grow: Instead of trying to ‘correct’ someone's thinking, help them develop their own wisdom and understanding through positive guidance. In short, this verse emphasizes the importance of compassion and avoiding actions that could cause harm or unhappiness. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Give some examples of situations where this proverb applies? Connect it to a broader theme in the Bible (like wisdom, forgiveness, etc.)?