The concept of a "disgraceful son" is addressed in various passages throughout the Bible, highlighting the importance of familial relationships and the consequences of dishonoring one's parents. This theme is particularly evident in the wisdom literature and legal codes of the Old Testament, where the behavior of children towards their parents is a matter of significant moral and social concern.

Old Testament References

1. Proverbs: The Book of Proverbs frequently addresses the behavior of children, emphasizing the blessings of a wise and obedient son versus the sorrow brought by a foolish or disgraceful one. Proverbs 10:1 states, "A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son grief to his mother." Similarly, Proverbs 17:25 notes, "A foolish son brings grief to his father and bitterness to her who bore him." These verses underscore the emotional impact a child's behavior can have on their parents, framing wisdom and obedience as virtues that honor the family.

2. Deuteronomy: The Mosaic Law contains specific instructions regarding the treatment of a rebellious son. Deuteronomy 21:18-21 provides a legal framework for dealing with a persistently disobedient son: "If a man has a stubborn and rebellious son who does not obey his father and mother and does not listen to them when disciplined, his father and mother are to take hold of him and bring him to the elders at the gate of his town. They shall say to the elders, 'This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He does not obey us. He is a glutton and a drunkard.' Then all the men of his town shall stone him to death. You must purge the evil from among you, and all Israel will hear and be afraid."