Father

A father is the male parent of an organism. It is often implied, however, to refer to human parents, unless otherwise stated.

The Bible states that one must honor thy mother and thy father, meaning that you must respect your parents.

It is also a term used for Roman Catholic priests. For example, if one's priest is named Henry, he would be referred to as "Father Henry." However, other religions, ex. Eastern Orthodoxy, often use this title for their pastors.

## The Role of a Father[edit]

The Bible states that fathers are responsible for guiding, teaching and disciplining their children. A father should be compassionate (Psalm 103:13) but should also spank his children to correct their behaviour. Proverbs 13:24 is clear that "Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them" and Proverbs 22:25 says that "Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline will drive it far away." Parenting expert, evangelical leader and psychologist Dr James Dobson PhD advises that it is a father's role to be an authority figure within the family, and as such he should set clear boundaries and provide children with discipline.[1] He recommends that when a child need to be disciplined, a father should give him a firm spanking on the bottom with a paddle or a switch. This should not be too harsh, but it should be painful enough to send the child a clear message about his behavior.[2]

1. ↑ https://www.dobsonlibrary.com/resource/article/7972aa97-9430-4dd2-9c6a-146589492194 The Dobson Library - Three Principles of Authority
2. ↑ https://www.dobsonlibrary.com/resource/article/9e6c1b33-b341-4617-aa11-70c9744fdf11 The Dobson Digital Library - Questions and Answers about Corporal Punishment and The Strong Willed Child