God instructs the Israelites to honor their fathers and mothers. This command does not always mean that parents must be agreed with or obeyed if what they are asking is immoral. It does mean they are to be heavy on the minds of their children, respected by them. Children are not to be entitled brats and rebels. The household is not to revolve around the children but the parents. It is not the children who instruct or direct the parents but the parents who instruct and direct the children. Why? Why does God recognize such a position and responsibility for parents in the home?
…so that your days may be prolonged in the land which Yahweh your God gives you. This is true of the whole Law, it was given for the benefit of humanity and not to make humanity righteous. Its precepts lead, generally, to a long and prosperous life. In a society with strong homes and family units, where the children honor their parents and are not entitled brats or rebellious against their parents, that society is much more likely to experience longevity and prosperity. God wants Israel to thrive, not be dead on arrival in Canaan. So, He instructs them to succeed where other nations have failed. Honor your father and mother.
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