by Honoring parents is a fundamental teaching in the Bible, representing one of the essential commandments in God’s law. It is a principle that is emphasized repeatedly, showing that respecting and caring for parents is not only a matter of duty but also a matter of divine blessing.
In honoring our parents, we reflect our reverence toward God, for He is the one who placed them in our lives. Below are Bible verses that highlight the importance of honoring one’s father and mother, followed by a commentary on each to reflect on their deeper meaning.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Parenting Responsibilities
Bible Verses About Honoring Parents
Exodus 20:12
“Honor (respect, obey, care for) your father and your mother, so that your days may be prolonged in the land the Lord your God gives you.”
Commentary: This is the fifth commandment, emphasizing the importance of respecting and caring for one’s parents. It is the first commandment with a promise — that honoring your parents brings the blessing of long life and well-being. God values family structure, and this command reflects the respect for parental authority and care, which forms the foundation for a healthy society.
Deuteronomy 5:16
“Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, so that your days may be prolonged and that it may go well with you on the land which the Lord your God gives you.”
Commentary: This verse echoes the command from Exodus, showing its importance in the covenant community. The emphasis is on obedience to God’s command, which is tied to personal and communal well-being. Honoring parents is not only an act of respect but also a way to ensure divine favor and blessings in the land that God promises.
Leviticus 19:3
“Each of you shall respect his mother and his father, and you shall keep My Sabbaths; I am the Lord your God.”
Commentary: In this verse, God directly commands His people to show reverence for their parents, linking this respect with observing the Sabbath. This connection suggests that just as we honor God through rest and worship, we also honor Him through our respect and care for our parents. It ties the family relationship to spiritual devotion.
Proverbs 1:8-9
“My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not reject the teaching of your mother; for they are a garland of grace on your head and chains and ornaments of gold around your neck.”
Commentary: These verses highlight the wisdom that comes from listening to parents’ guidance. The imagery of a garland and ornaments speaks to the beauty and honor that come from embracing the teachings of parents. It also indicates that parental wisdom has enduring value, bringing grace and dignity to the child’s life.
Proverbs 6:20
“My son, keep your father’s commandment and do not forsake the law of your mother.”
Commentary: The father’s commandment and the mother’s law refer to the teachings and guidance given by parents. This verse advises the young to hold fast to these instructions, recognizing that parental wisdom serves as a safeguard for one’s life. Respecting their words leads to a life of wisdom and safety.
Proverbs 23:22
“Listen to your father, who sired you, and do not despise your mother when she is old.”
Commentary: This verse calls for ongoing respect for parents, particularly as they age. The instruction to listen and not despise them is a reminder that age does not diminish the respect due to them. It reflects the lasting value of parental care and the duty of children to care for and honor their parents throughout their lives.
Ephesians 6:1-3
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord [that is, accept their guidance and discipline as His representatives], for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—this is the first commandment with a promise—so that it may be well with you, and that you may have a long life on the earth.”
Commentary: Paul echoes the commandment from Exodus, reminding children that obedience to parents is a righteous act before God. The promise of well-being and long life accompanies this obedience. In the context of Christian living, obeying parents is seen as part of submitting to God’s authority and reflecting His order within the family.
Colossians 3:20
“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is well-pleasing to the Lord.”
Commentary: This verse ties obedience to parents directly to pleasing God. It emphasizes that honoring parents is not merely a social or cultural expectation but a divine command. By obeying their parents, children align themselves with God’s will and bring Him delight through their actions.
Proverbs 20:20
“Whoever curses his father or his mother, his lamp will be extinguished in time of darkness.”
Commentary: Cursing one’s parents is presented here as a grave offense with severe consequences. The extinguishing of the lamp symbolizes the loss of life and hope. This verse underscores the seriousness of dishonoring one’s parents, as it leads to both spiritual and material destruction.
Matthew 15:4
“For God said, ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and, ‘He who speaks evil of or insults or treats improperly father or mother is to be put to death.'”
Commentary: Jesus affirms the command to honor parents, highlighting the severity of disrespecting them. He contrasts this with the traditions of the Pharisees, who found ways to sidestep the law. This verse emphasizes that honoring parents is a command from God that cannot be neglected or diminished by human traditions.
Proverbs 30:17
“The eye that mocks a father and scorns a mother, the ravens of the valley will pick it out, and the young vultures will eat it.”
Commentary: The graphic imagery in this verse paints a vivid picture of the consequences of mocking and scorning parents. It serves as a stark warning against disrespecting them. In biblical literature, such imagery often indicates a form of divine judgment, underscoring the serious nature of dishonoring parents.
Deuteronomy 27:16
“Cursed is he who dishonors (treats with contempt) his father or his mother. And all the people shall say, ‘Amen.’”
Commentary: This verse places a curse upon anyone who dishonors their parents, showing the gravity of such an action in the eyes of God. The communal response of “Amen” indicates that this is not just a personal matter but a societal one, as the entire community must uphold the respect and honor of parents as a collective value.
Proverbs 19:26
“He who assaults his father and chases away his mother is a son who brings shame and disgrace.”
Commentary: A child who mistreats their parents is described as bringing shame and disgrace upon themselves. This verse speaks to the destructive consequences of disrespecting parents, not only for the child but also for the family and society. Such behavior tarnishes the family’s reputation and reflects poorly on the individual’s character.
Luke 2:51
“And He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and He was [continually] submissive and obedient to them; and His mother treasured all these things in her heart.”
Commentary: Even Jesus, the Son of God, demonstrated obedience and submission to His earthly parents. This verse shows the importance of obedience within the family structure and serves as a model for all believers. Jesus’ obedience highlights the virtue of humility and respect within the family, regardless of one’s status or position.
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1 Timothy 5:4
“But if a widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to show piety at home and make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable and pleasing in the sight of God.”
Commentary: Paul encourages children and grandchildren to take responsibility for the care of their parents, especially widows, as an act of piety and gratitude. This verse stresses the importance of family care and the duty to repay parents for the love and care they provided. It is both a moral and spiritual obligation that pleases God.
Proverbs 13:1
“A wise son heeds and accepts [his father’s] discipline and instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.”
Commentary: Wisdom is associated with listening to and accepting parental discipline. This verse contrasts the wise and the foolish, showing that a willingness to heed parental guidance leads to wisdom, while rejecting it leads to scorn and folly. Parental discipline is portrayed as a means to grow in wisdom and character.
Proverbs 15:5
“A [flippant, arrogant] fool rejects his father’s instruction and correction, but he who [is willing to learn and] regards and keeps in mind a reprimand acquires prudence.”
Commentary: A fool is characterized by the rejection of a father’s correction, while prudence is gained through humility and a willingness to learn from reprimands. This verse emphasizes the value of correction from parents as a source of wisdom, urging children to embrace their parents’ discipline for their own good.
Exodus 21:15
“Whoever strikes his father or his mother must be put to death.”
Commentary: This law reveals the seriousness of physical violence against parents. Such an action is seen as a severe violation of family honor and respect, warranting the harshest punishment. This command underscores the sacred nature of the parent-child relationship in God’s eyes and the necessity of maintaining that honor.
Proverbs 29:15
“The rod and reproof (godly instruction) give wisdom, but a child who gets his own way brings shame to his mother.”
Commentary: Discipline is portrayed here as a necessary tool for imparting wisdom to children. A lack of discipline results in shame, particularly for the mother, who is often seen as the primary caregiver. This verse emphasizes that parental correction is an act of love and care, essential for raising wise and responsible children.
Exodus 21:17
“Whoever curses his father or his mother must be put to death.”
Commentary: Like striking parents, cursing them is considered a grievous sin, punishable by death. This command shows the high regard in which God holds parental authority and the respect that children must have for their parents. Verbal abuse is treated as seriously as physical violence in God’s law.
Proverbs 28:24
“Whoever robs his father or his mother and says, ‘This is no sin,’ is [not only a thief but also] the companion of a man who destroys.”
Commentary: Stealing from one’s parents is condemned in this verse, equating such behavior with the actions of a destroyer. The verse speaks to the deep betrayal involved in such actions, as they not only dishonor parents but also undermine the trust and care within the family structure. Such behavior is an affront to both family and God.
Proverbs 10:1
“The proverbs of Solomon: A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish [stubborn] son [who refuses to learn] is a grief to his mother.”
Commentary: This verse contrasts the joy a wise son brings to his father with the grief caused by a foolish son. It shows that children’s behavior has a direct impact on their parents’ emotional well-being. The verse encourages children to pursue wisdom, not only for their own benefit but also for the happiness of their parents.
Genesis 9:22-25
“Ham, the father of Canaan, saw [by accident] the nakedness of his father [Noah], and to his father’s shame told his two brothers outside. So Shem and Japheth took a robe and put it on both their shoulders and walked backward and covered the nakedness of their father; their faces were turned away so that they did not see their father’s nakedness. When Noah awoke from his wine, he knew what his younger son [Ham] had done to him. So he said, ‘Cursed be Canaan; a servant of servants he shall be to his brothers.'”
Commentary: This passage demonstrates the importance of honoring and preserving the dignity of one’s parents. Ham’s disrespect toward Noah led to a curse, while the respectful actions of Shem and Japheth brought them honor. This story serves as a reminder that dishonoring one’s parents can have serious consequences for both the individual and their descendants.
Proverbs 19:18
“Discipline your son while there is hope, and do not [indulge your anger or resentment by imposing inappropriate punishment nor] desire his destruction.”
Commentary: This verse encourages parents to discipline their children in love, without allowing anger to drive them to destructive actions. Proper discipline is viewed as a means of guiding children toward hope and wisdom. It reflects the importance of balanced and loving correction in raising respectful and honorable children.
Exodus 21:17
“Whoever curses his father or his mother must be put to death.”
Commentary: Like striking parents, cursing them is considered a grievous sin, punishable by death. This command shows the high regard in which God holds parental authority and the respect that children must have for their parents. Verbal abuse is treated as seriously as physical violence in God’s law.
Proverbs 20:11
“Even a boy is known by his actions, whether his conduct is pure and right.”
Commentary: This verse emphasizes that children, even from a young age, are judged by their behavior. It serves as a reminder to both parents and children that cultivating honorable, respectful, and pure conduct early in life is essential. A child who learns to honor and respect their parents is setting a foundation for a life that reflects Godly character and righteousness.
Proverbs 22:6
“Train up a child in the way he should go [teaching him to seek God’s wisdom and will for his abilities and talents]; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Commentary: This well-known verse stresses the importance of early spiritual training. Parents are called to guide their children in the way of righteousness, helping them develop a strong moral and spiritual compass. When children are raised with the right principles and respect for their parents, it leads to lifelong patterns of faith and obedience to God.
Mark 7:10
“For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘He who speaks evil of or insults or treats improperly father or mother, must be put to death.’”
Commentary: Jesus reaffirms the commandment to honor parents, referencing Moses’ law. This highlights the seriousness with which God views the mistreatment or dishonoring of parents. The command is not only about showing respect but also about maintaining family honor, which reflects a person’s respect for God’s order.
Hebrews 12:9
“Moreover, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us, and we submitted [and respected them for training us]; shall we not much more willingly submit to the Father of spirits, and live [by learning from His discipline]?”
Commentary: This verse draws a parallel between the discipline of earthly parents and the discipline of God, our Heavenly Father. If we respect and honor our earthly fathers for their correction and guidance, how much more should we honor God for His perfect discipline, which leads to spiritual life and growth? The passage emphasizes the connection between honoring earthly authority and divine authority.
1 Kings 2:19
“So Bathsheba went to King Solomon to speak to him for Adonijah. And the king arose to meet her and bowed before her, then sat on his throne; he had a throne set for the king’s mother, and she sat on his right.”
Commentary: This passage shows King Solomon honoring his mother, Bathsheba, with great respect. Not only does he rise to greet her, but he also places a throne for her beside him, signifying her importance. This act reflects the deep cultural and spiritual value placed on honoring parents, particularly in the context of royal authority and God’s covenant people.
Proverbs 15:20
“A wise son makes a father glad, but a foolish man despises his mother.”
Commentary: This verse contrasts the joy and pride a wise child brings to their father with the disdain a foolish person shows toward their mother. It emphasizes that wisdom and respect toward parents not only reflect good character but also bring honor and happiness to the family. The foolishness of despising one’s mother brings sorrow and dishonor, highlighting the gravity of such disrespect.
Matthew 19:19
“Honor your father and mother; and, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Commentary: In this passage, Jesus lists honoring one’s parents alongside the command to love one’s neighbor, underscoring the importance of family relationships in the context of broader moral obligations. Honoring parents is seen as foundational to living out a life of love and respect for others, reflecting the interconnectedness of all of God’s commandments.
Proverbs 23:24-25
“The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice, and he who sires a wise child will have joy in him. Let your father and your mother be glad, and let her who gave birth to you rejoice [in your wise and godly choices].”
Commentary: These verses celebrate the joy and pride parents feel when their children live righteously and wisely. It serves as an encouragement for children to live in such a way that honors their parents, bringing them happiness and fulfillment. The passage highlights the lasting impact of a child’s character and choices on the well-being of their parents.
Malachi 1:6
“‘A son honors his father, and a servant his master. Then if I am a Father, where is My honor? And if I am a Master, where is [the reverent] fear and respect due Me?’ says the Lord of hosts to you, O priests who despise My name.”
Commentary: God uses the analogy of a son honoring his father to question the Israelites about their lack of respect for Him. The verse demonstrates that just as honoring one’s earthly parents is expected, even more so should people honor and revere God, their Heavenly Father. It calls attention to the ultimate source of all authority—God Himself.
1 Peter 2:17
“Show respect for all people [treat them honorably], love the brotherhood [of believers], fear God, honor the king.”
Commentary: This verse encapsulates the Christian call to honor and respect various authorities, including parents. The broad command to show respect to everyone begins in the family, where children learn to honor their parents. Honoring authority in the home is the foundation for respecting wider social, spiritual, and political structures as part of God’s order.
Luke 18:20
“You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not bear false witness, honor your father and mother.’”
Commentary: Jesus, in response to a question about how to inherit eternal life, reiterates the importance of following the commandments, including honoring one’s parents. This places honoring parents on the same level as avoiding other major sins like murder and theft. It shows that respecting one’s parents is foundational to a life of righteousness and obedience to God.
Romans 13:7
“Pay to all what is due: tax to whom tax is due, custom to whom custom, respect to whom respect, honor to whom honor.”
Commentary: This verse calls for believers to give due honor to all forms of authority, including parental authority. It highlights the broader principle that honor and respect are part of the Christian’s duty in various relationships, beginning with the family. In honoring parents, we acknowledge their God-given role and authority in our lives.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Loyalty
What Does the Bible Say About Honoring Parents
Honoring your parents is one of the most important things that the Bible teaches us, and it’s something we all need to think about as we go through life. From the time we are young, we are told that our parents have wisdom, experience, and love that helps guide us through the tough parts of growing up and even into adulthood. But honoring them isn’t just about doing what they say; it’s about showing them respect, being grateful for the sacrifices they’ve made, and appreciating the care they have given us, even when we didn’t realize how much we needed it.
You see, honoring your parents goes beyond just following their rules or agreeing with everything they do. It means listening to them, understanding their perspective, and sometimes putting their needs before your own. As people who raised you, they deserve that respect, not just because of what they’ve done but because of who they are in your life. Life is full of moments where we think we know best, but honoring our parents reminds us to stay humble and acknowledge that we can still learn from those who came before us.
When we honor our parents, it strengthens our families, builds deeper relationships, and brings peace into our homes. This can be as simple as a kind word, a phone call to check on them, or even helping out without being asked. It’s about showing love in a way that reflects the love they’ve shown us, whether it’s by raising us, providing for us, or guiding us through life’s challenges. And as we grow older, honoring our parents often means caring for them in return, making sure they are looked after, and showing them the same love and kindness they gave to us.
So, honoring your parents is not just a rule to follow but a principle to live by. It brings blessings into your life, helps you grow as a person, and honors the relationships that shape who you are. Remember, it’s about love, respect, and gratitude, and it’s never too late to start showing it.