Definition: The eye [that] mocketh at [his] father, and despiseth to obey [his] mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Proverbs 30:17. It's a pretty powerful message about responsibility and how we influence our lives. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse talks about the impact of our choices and actions – specifically, our attitude and behavior – on our future. It suggests that if you consistently act with disrespect and disregard for your parents, your life will be filled with challenges and difficulties. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "The eye that mocketh at his father..." : This refers to someone who constantly belittles or disrespects their parents. It’s about a person who is critical and condescending. Think of someone who always puts others down, even when they're not being deliberately hurtful. "...and despiseth to obey his mother..." : This means that this person doesn’t follow the guidance or rules set by their parents. They don’t respect authority or listen to what is right. It’s about a lack of obedience and deference. "The ravens of the valley shall pick it out..." : This is the key image. "Ravens" are wild birds that live in valleys – they're often associated with mischief, boldness, and a tendency to take risks. So, “the ravens” represent people who are rebellious, impulsive, and prone to making bad decisions. They’ll be drawn to this person’s negativity and will exploit it. "...and the young eagles shall eat it." : This is the consequence. The "young eagles" symbolize those who are ambitious, strong, and capable of causing trouble. They'll eat or thrive on this negativity and disrespect. They’re drawn to the person’s flaws and will become a source of problems. So, what does it all mean? It essentially means that your attitude and behavior have consequences. If you consistently act in ways that disrespect others – especially your parents – you'll likely face difficulties and challenges in your own life. It highlights the importance of: Respect: Showing respect to those who came before us, including our parents. Obedience: Following the rules and guidance provided by authority figures. Responsibility: Taking ownership of your actions and choices. In short, it's a warning about the long-term effects of disrespect. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how this principle might apply to your life?