King James Version

What Does Proverbs 22:15 Mean?

Proverbs 22:15 in the King James Version says “Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.”

Proverbs 22:15 · KJV

Context

13

The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.

14

The mouth of strange women is a deep pit: he that is abhorred of the LORD shall fall therein.

15

Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.

16

He that oppresseth the poor to increase his riches, and he that giveth to the rich, shall surely come to want.

17

Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.

Read Proverbs 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This proverb addresses child-rearing: 'Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.' The verse recognizes innate sinfulness—'foolishness' (ivvelet—moral folly, not mere childish ignorance) is 'bound' (qeshurah—tied, attached) in children's hearts from birth. This reflects the doctrine of original sin (Psalm 51:5, 58:3). The 'rod of correction' (shevet musar—disciplinary rod, corrective training) serves to 'drive it far from him'—removing foolishness through loving discipline. This doesn't endorse child abuse but affirms that children need correction, including appropriate physical discipline administered in love. The goal is moral formation, driving out folly to produce wisdom.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Israelite pedagogy included physical discipline as one element of comprehensive training. Multiple proverbs address this (13:24, 22:15, 23:13-14, 29:15). Modern contexts differ culturally and legally, requiring wisdom in application. The underlying principle remains: children need loving correction to overcome innate sinfulness and develop godly character. Neglecting discipline harms rather than helps children.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you balance loving nurture with necessary correction in raising or discipling children?
  2. In what ways does recognizing innate foolishness in children's hearts affect your approach to child-rearing or youth ministry?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
אִ֭וֶּלֶת1 of 8

“Foolishness”

H200

silliness

קְשׁוּרָ֣ה2 of 8

“is bound”

H7194

to tie, physically (gird, confine, compact) or mentally (in love, league)

בְלֶב3 of 8

“in the heart”

H3820

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

נָ֑עַר4 of 8

“of a child”

H5288

(concretely) a boy (as active), from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also (by interch. of sex), a girl (of similar latit

שֵׁ֥בֶט5 of 8

“but the rod”

H7626

a scion, i.e., (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting, ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan

מ֝וּסָ֗ר6 of 8

“of correction”

H4148

properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint

יַרְחִיקֶ֥נָּה7 of 8

“shall drive it far”

H7368

to widen (in any direction), i.e., (intransitively) recede or (transitively) remove (literally or figuratively, of place or relation)

מִמֶּֽנּוּ׃8 of 8
H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 22:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Proverbs 22:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 13:24Proverbs 29:15Proverbs 19:18Proverbs 23:13-14Proverbs 29:17Hebrews 12:10-11

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 22 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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