King James Version
What Does Proverbs 30:17 Mean?
“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. the valley: or, the brook”
Context
15
The horseleach hath two daughters, crying, Give, give. There are three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things say not, It is enough: It is: Heb. Wealth
16
The grave; and the barren womb; the earth that is not filled with water; and the fire that saith not, It is enough.
17
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. the valley: or, the brook
18
There be three things which are too wonderful for me, yea, four which I know not:
19
The way of an eagle in the air; the way of a serpent upon a rock; the way of a ship in the midst of the sea; and the way of a man with a maid. midst: Heb. heart
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(17) **The ravens of the valley shall pick it out**—*i.e.*, the rebellious son shall die of a “grievous death” (Jeremiah 16:4). The propensity of ravens to attack the eyes is well known.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 30:17 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 30:17
Deuteronomy 21:18-21
→Proverbs 23:22
→Proverbs 30:11
→2 Samuel 18:14-17
→Leviticus 20:9
→Genesis 9:21-27
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge