Old Testament
Proverbs 23:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Your father and mother will be glad, and she who gave birth to you will rejoice.
Compare translations
Thy father and thy mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoice.
What Proverbs 23:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes the joy that parents feel when their children live wisely and righteously. It highlights the importance of making choices that not only benefit oneself but also bring happiness to one's family. When children act in ways that reflect good values, it brings pride and joy to their parents. The verse suggests that a child's success and moral integrity are sources of great delight for their mother and father. This joy is not just about achievements but also about the character and choices of the child. The underlying message is that children should strive to live in a way that honors their parents, as this creates a positive cycle of love and respect within the family. Ultimately, the verse encourages a harmonious family relationship built on mutual respect and joy.
How to apply Proverbs 23:25 to your life
To apply this verse, focus on making choices that reflect good values and wisdom. Consider how your actions affect your parents and strive to bring them joy through your decisions. Building a strong relationship with your family can lead to mutual happiness and respect.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 23:25
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 23:25
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 23:25 mean?
Proverbs 23:25 highlights the joy that parents experience when their children make wise and righteous choices. It emphasizes that a child's good character and decisions can bring pride and happiness to their family.
What is the meaning of parental joy in Proverbs 23:25?
Parental joy in Proverbs 23:25 refers to the happiness and pride parents feel when their children live according to good values. This joy stems from seeing their children succeed and make choices that reflect integrity.
How can I apply Proverbs 23:25 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 23:25, focus on making decisions that reflect good values and wisdom. Consider how your actions affect your parents and strive to bring them joy through your choices.
What themes are present in Proverbs 23:25?
Key themes in Proverbs 23:25 include parental joy, family relationships, wisdom, righteous living, and the importance of honoring one's parents. These themes highlight the connection between a child's choices and family happiness.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.