Definition: Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Proverbs 19:18: “Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying.” Here's a simple explanation in plain language: What it means on the surface: This verse is saying that it’s important to be gentle and supportive with your children. It encourages you to address their problems and frustrations before they become overwhelming. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Chasten thy son…” – This means to correct, discipline, or guide your son gently and lovingly. It's about teaching him right from wrong and helping him grow into a good person. “…while there is hope…” - This is the crucial part! “Hope” here refers to their desire for things to improve – their need for you to help them, their willingness to change, or their desire for a better future. It’s about their potential for good. “And let not thy soul spare…” - This is the warning part. "Soul" refers to your spirit, your feelings, and your compassion. It means don't be indifferent, selfish, or dismissive when they are crying or upset. Don’t just move on without giving them a chance to feel heard and understood. In short: It’s about being present and responsive to your son’s emotional needs. You need to show him love and support while acknowledging their pain. Why is this important? This verse emphasizes the importance of parental care and nurturing. It suggests that a loving, supportive environment is vital for a child's well-being. Ignoring their problems can lead to hurt feelings, resentment, and potentially serious consequences. Think of it like this: You wouldn’t ignore a scraped knee – you'd comfort them and help them heal. This verse encourages that same level of care and attention with your children. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps explore its context within the broader Bible? For example, we could talk about: The idea of "hope" in the Old Testament How it relates to forgiveness and reconciliation