Ask the Rabbi
- Family and Society
- Honor Thy Parents
- Honoring Parents vs. Other Mitzvot
Question
bs"d
There is the sentence "Reprove your fellow [but] do not bear sin because of him."
Can this sentence be applicable also to parents "Reprove your parent [but] do not bear sin because of him".
What if an adult-child is aware of the parentโs mistakes/sins. Can they reprove the parent so as not to bear sin because of him?
Answer
The rabbis teach us (Shulchan Aruch Y.D. 240, 11) that in such a case one should ask respectfully, as a question or reminder, โFather/Mother, doesnโt it say in the Torahโฆ?โ which is a respectful way of rebuking, and that way the father is reminded without being embarrassed. If after rebuking the parent still doesnโt improve, than at least you have done your share and obligation, and now itโs your fatherโs issue.
With Love of Israel,
Rav Ari Shvat

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