Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
FA'THER. This word is used in the Bible in several senses besides its usual one. It is applied to any ancestor, and in the plural to ancestors in general. Dan 5:2; Deut 1:11; Matt 23:30. As a title of respect, especially to kings, prophets, and priests. Jud 17:10; 1 Sam 10:12; 2 Kgs 2:12; Acts 7:2; 1 Cor 4:15. Also of protector or guardian. Ps 68:5. The author, source, or beginning of anything. Gen 4:21; Rom 4:12. " Deut 32:6; Ps 89:26; Matt 6:4,Matt 6:9; Rom 1:7. The position of father was one of great dignity and authority. Laws were enacted to secure this. Ex 22:17; Lev 20:9.
The father had, however, no power over the life of his child. Deut 21:18-21. Both his blessing and his curse were especially efficacious. Gen 9:25-26; Gen 27:27-40. The fifth commandment was the only one to whose obedience a blessing was especially promised. Ex 20:12; Eph 6:2. Disrespect toward parents was one of the worst of crimes. Ex 21:15-17;1 Tim 1:9. The father, as the head of the family, was, in patriarchal times, the priest. Gen 8:20; Job 1:5. " See Children.