Dear editor,

Let us hear what the Bible says about beating children and settle this matter once and for all; because, if we go with the Word of God, we can’t be wrong.

This is what the Bible says: “Don’t spare the rod and spoil the child. If you punish him with the rod he will not die” – Proverbs 23:13.

What do we think it means? Some people believe that it means to discipline a child by word of mouth and not with the belt. But I believe they are wrong. It is referring to spanking the child by using the rod of correction.

There is another place in the Bible that speaks about beating: St Luke 12:47 – “If he does not obey his master, he shall be beaten with many stripes.”

Some children don’t have to be disciplined with the belt, but some do. If an ill-mannered, disrespectful and disobedient child keeps on doing the same thing over and over, despite the warning you gave him, then, you will have to use the “subble-jack” on him.

A rude child will move quickly or quicker to obey you, or he will stop doing the wrong thing when he sees the strap in your hand.

All you have to do is to beat the child mercifully and carefully. Don’t beat her, as if you are going to kill her, because that’s downright wickedness. Better said, beat with self-control and you will not get in trouble.

Many people do not believe in corporal punishment. But, there is time for everything and corporal punishment will work for those whom the cap fits.

Donald J Mckoy