Discipline means to teach, hence, disciple - and the rod referenced is a shepherd’s crook, a device used to guide, not punish. No good shepherd would strike that which he is trying to guide and teach, especially with the tool that is the symbol of love and protection.
Oh stop the crap..and read Proverbs 23:12-14 if you need further illumination as to what Solomon says about “the rod”.
Proverbs 23:…12Apply your heart to discipline And your ears to words of knowledge. 13Do not hold back discipline from the child, Although you strike him with the rod, he will not die. 14You shall strike him with the rod And rescue his soul from Sheol.…