Deuteronomy 21:20

“And they shall say unto the elders of his city, etc.] In open court, what follows, at the same time, according to the Targum of Jonathan, acknowledging their own sins, for which such a calamity had befallen them, saying, “we have transgressed the decree of the word of the Lord, because is born unto us a son that is stubborn, etc.” (see <430902>John 9:2) this our son is stubborn and rebellious, he will not obey our voice; one of an obstinate disposition, will have his own will and way, is perverse and refractory; honours not, but despises his parents, and is disobedient to their commands, unruly and ungovernable: the Jews gather f297 many things from hence, for which there is little…”

“The formal accusation of parents against a child was to be received without inquiry, as being its own proof. Thus the just authority of the parents is recognized and effectually upheld (compare Exodus 20:12; Exodus 21:15, Exodus 21:17; Leviticus 20:9); but the extreme and irresponsible power of life and death, conceded by the law of Rome and other pagan nations, is withheld from the Israelite father. In this, as in the last law, provision is made against the abuses of a necessary authority. return to 'Top of Page'”

“A glutton and a drunkard - Under which two offences others of a like or worse nature are comprehended. Deuteronomy 21:22”

“21:20 Calling someone a glutton and a drunkard was probably a proverbial cliché suggesting self-indulgence and laziness. Such a son was a good-for-nothing who rebelled against his parents and thus also against the community and divine authority (see Prov 23:20-21).”

“he will not: Pro 29:17 he is a glutton: Pro 19:26, Pro 20:1, Pro 23:19-21, Pro 23:29-35 Deuteronomy 21:21”

“Here they were to accuse the son as being unmanageable, refractory, disobedient, as "a glutton and a drunkard." These last accusations show the reason for the unmanageableness and refractoriness. Deuteronomy 21:21”