Proverbs 16:14
Proverbs 16:14 in Multiple Translations
The wrath of a king is a messenger of death, but a wise man will pacify it.
The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.
The wrath of a king is as messengers of death; But a wise man will pacify it.
The wrath of the king is like those who give news of death, but a wise man will put peace in place of it.
An angry king can put you to death. If you're wise you'll try and calm him down.
The wrath of a King is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacifie it.
The fury of a king [is] messengers of death, And a wise man pacifieth it.
The king’s wrath is a messenger of death, but a wise man will pacify it.
The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.
The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: and the wise man will pacify it.
If a king becomes angry, he may command that someone be executed, so wise people will try to cause him to be calm.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 16:14
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 16:14 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
חֲמַת
מֶ֥לֶךְ
מַלְאֲכֵי
מָ֑וֶת
וְ/אִ֖ישׁ
חָכָ֣ם
יְכַפְּרֶֽ/נָּה
חֲמַת
chêmâh
H2534
rage
N-fs
מֶ֥לֶךְ
melek
H4428
King's
N-ms
מַלְאֲכֵי
mălʼâk
H4397
messenger
N-mp
מָ֑וֶת
mâveth
H4194
death
N-ms
וְ/אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
Conj | N-ms
חָכָ֣ם
châkâm
H2450
wise
Adj
יְכַפְּרֶֽ/נָּה
kâphar
H3722
to atone
V-Piel-Imperf-3ms | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 16:14
חֲמַת
chêmâh
H2534
"rage"
N-fs
This word means intense anger or rage, like a burning fire. It's used in the Bible to describe God's wrath and human anger, often warning against the dangers of unchecked emotions. In Proverbs and Psalms, it cautions against the destructive power of anger and rage.
Definition: 1) heat, rage, hot displeasure, indignation, anger, wrath, poison, bottles 1a) heat 1a1) fever 1a2) venom, poison (fig.) 1b) burning anger, rage Aramaic equivalent: che.ma (חֱמָא "rage" H2528)
Usage: Occurs in 117 OT verses. KJV: anger, bottles, hot displeasure, furious(-ly, -ry), heat, indignation, poison, rage, wrath(-ful). See H2529 (חֶמְאָה). See also: Genesis 27:44; Isaiah 63:5; Psalms 6:2.
מֶ֥לֶךְ
melek
H4428
"King's"
N-ms
This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.
Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)
Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.
מַלְאֲכֵי
mălʼâk
H4397
"messenger"
N-mp
A messenger or representative, often of God, like an angel, prophet, or priest, as seen in Isaiah 42:19 and Haggai 1:13, carrying out God's will.
Definition: : messenger 1) messenger, representative 1a) messenger 1b) angel 1c) the theophanic angel
Usage: Occurs in 196 OT verses. KJV: ambassador, angel, king, messenger. See also: Genesis 16:7; 2 Samuel 24:16; Psalms 34:8.
מָ֑וֶת
mâveth
H4194
"death"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word refers to death, whether natural or violent, and is used in books like Genesis and Isaiah. It can also mean the place of the dead, or a state of ruin. This concept is seen in the story of Moses, where death is a punishment for disobedience.
Definition: 1) death, dying, Death (personified), realm of the dead 1a) death 1b) death by violence (as a penalty) 1c) state of death, place of death Aramaic equivalent: mot (מוֹת "death" H4193)
Usage: Occurs in 153 OT verses. KJV: (be) dead(-ly), death, die(-d). See also: Genesis 21:16; Job 38:17; Psalms 6:6.
וְ/אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
Conj | N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
חָכָ֣ם
châkâm
H2450
"wise"
Adj
This word means wise or skilled, describing someone intelligent or crafty, like a cunning man or a prudent leader.
Definition: 1) wise, wise (man) 1a) skilful (in technical work) 1b) wise (in administration) 1c) shrewd, crafty, cunning, wily, subtle 1d) learned, shrewd (class of men) 1e) prudent 1f) wise (ethically and religiously)
Usage: Occurs in 133 OT verses. KJV: cunning (man), subtil, (un-), wise((hearted), man). See also: Genesis 41:8; Proverbs 16:14; Psalms 49:11.
יְכַפְּרֶֽ/נָּה
kâphar
H3722
"to atone"
V-Piel-Imperf-3ms | Suff
To cover means to coat or cover something, like when the ark was covered with pitch to protect it. This word is also used figuratively to describe making amends or forgiving someone, like in a sacrifice or atonement.
Definition: 1) to cover, purge, make an atonement, make reconciliation 1a) (Piel) 1a1) to cover over, pacify, propitiate 1a2) to cover over, atone for sin, make atonement for 1a3) to cover over, atone for sin and persons by legal rites 1b) (Pual) 1b1) to be covered over 1b2) to be atoned for 1c) (Hithpael) to be covered
Usage: Occurs in 94 OT verses. KJV: appease, make (an atonement, cleanse, disannul, forgive, be merciful, pacify, pardon, purge (away), put off, (make) reconcile(-liation). See also: Genesis 6:14; Leviticus 16:32; Psalms 65:4.
Study Notes — Proverbs 16:14
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 16:14 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 16:14
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 16:14
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 16:14
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 16:14
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 16:14
- Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 16:14
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 16:14
- Sermons on Proverbs 16:14
Context — The Reply of the Tongue Is from the LORD
12Wicked behavior is detestable for kings, for a throne is established through righteousness.
13Righteous lips are a king’s delight, and he who speaks honestly is beloved.
14The wrath of a king is a messenger of death, but a wise man will pacify it.
15When a king’s face brightens, there is life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring. 16How much better to acquire wisdom than gold! To gain understanding is more desirable than silver.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 20:2 | The terror of a king is like the roar of a lion; whoever provokes him forfeits his own life. |
| 2 | Proverbs 19:12 | A king’s rage is like the roar of a lion, but his favor is like dew on the grass. |
| 3 | Ecclesiastes 10:4 | If the ruler’s temper flares against you, do not abandon your post, for calmness lays great offenses to rest. |
| 4 | 2 Kings 6:31–33 | He announced, “May God punish me, and ever so severely, if the head of Elisha son of Shaphat remains on his shoulders through this day!” Now Elisha was sitting in his house, and the elders were sitting with him. The king sent a messenger ahead, but before he arrived, Elisha said to the elders, “Do you see how this murderer has sent someone to cut off my head? Look, when the messenger comes, shut the door to keep him out. Is not the sound of his master’s footsteps behind him?” While Elisha was still speaking with them, the messenger came down to him. And the king said, “This calamity is from the LORD. Why should I wait for the LORD any longer?” |
| 5 | 2 Corinthians 5:20 | Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God. |
| 6 | Luke 12:4–5 | I tell you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear the One who, after you have been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him! |
| 7 | Daniel 3:13–25 | Then Nebuchadnezzar, furious with rage, summoned Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. So these men were brought before the king, and Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, is it true that you do not serve my gods or worship the golden statue I have set up? Now, if you are ready, as soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes, and all kinds of music, you must fall down and worship the statue I have made. But if you refuse to worship, you will be thrown at once into the blazing fiery furnace. Then what god will be able to deliver you from my hands?” Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If the God whom we serve exists, then He is able to deliver us from the blazing fiery furnace and from your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden statue you have set up.” At this, Nebuchadnezzar was filled with rage, and the expression on his face changed toward Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He gave orders to heat the furnace seven times hotter than usual, and he commanded some mighty men of valor in his army to tie up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and throw them into the blazing fiery furnace. So they were tied up, wearing robes, trousers, turbans, and other clothes, and they were thrown into the blazing fiery furnace. The king’s command was so urgent and the furnace so hot that the fiery flames killed the men who carried up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, firmly bound, fell into the blazing fiery furnace. Suddenly King Nebuchadnezzar jumped up in amazement and asked his advisers, “Did we not throw three men, firmly bound, into the fire?” “Certainly, O king,” they replied. “Look!” he exclaimed. “I see four men, unbound and unharmed, walking around in the fire—and the fourth looks like a son of the gods! ” |
| 8 | Proverbs 17:11 | An evil man seeks only rebellion; a cruel messenger will be sent against him. |
| 9 | Acts 12:20 | Now Herod was in a furious dispute with the people of Tyre and Sidon, and they convened before him. Having secured the support of Blastus, the king’s chamberlain, they asked for peace, because their region depended on the king’s country for food. |
| 10 | Mark 6:27 | So without delay, the king commanded that John’s head be brought in. He sent an executioner, who went and beheaded him in the prison. |
Proverbs 16:14 Summary
[This verse means that when someone in charge, like a king, gets very angry, it can lead to serious consequences, even death, but a wise person can calm them down with gentle words, as seen in Proverbs 16:14. This reminds us to be careful what we say and do around people in authority, and to try to resolve conflicts peacefully, as advised in Matthew 5:9 and Romans 12:18. By speaking wisely and showing respect, we can diffuse tense situations and bring peace, just like Esther did in Esther 7:1-6. This principle can apply to all areas of our lives, from our relationships with parents and teachers to our interactions with coworkers and leaders.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for a king's wrath to be a messenger of death?
This phrase means that the anger of someone in authority, like a king, can have severe and potentially deadly consequences, as seen in Proverbs 16:14, and it is a reminder to be mindful of our actions and words towards those in power, as warned in Proverbs 24:21-22.
How can a wise man pacify the wrath of a king?
A wise man can pacify the wrath of a king by speaking wisely and calmly, as advised in Proverbs 15:1, and by showing respect and humility, as demonstrated in Esther 7:1-6, where Esther's wise words and actions saved her people from destruction.
Is this verse only applicable to kings and those in power?
While the verse specifically mentions a king, the principle applies to anyone in authority, such as parents, teachers, or employers, as we are called to respect and honor those in authority over us, as taught in Romans 13:1-7 and Ephesians 6:1-4.
What is the significance of the contrast between the king's wrath and the wise man's pacifying words?
The contrast highlights the importance of wisdom and gentle words in diffusing tense situations, as seen in Proverbs 16:14, and it reminds us that our words have the power to bring life or death, as warned in Proverbs 18:21 and James 3:9-10.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can apply the principle of pacifying wrath in my own relationships and interactions with those in authority?
- How can I cultivate wisdom and gentle words in my own life, especially in difficult or confrontational situations?
- What are some examples from Scripture where wise words and actions led to a peaceful resolution, and what can I learn from those examples?
- In what ways can I show respect and humility towards those in authority over me, even when I disagree with them or feel frustrated with the situation?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 16:14
The wrath of a king [is as] messengers of death,.... Or, "angels of death", as the Targum.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 16:14
The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it. The wrath of a king is as messengers of death. The plural expresses manifold forms of death which are at the king's command.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 16:14
Is as messengers of death; is as terrible as if many messengers were sent to denounce the sentence of death, and to execute it. Will pacify it; will use all prudent and lawful means to pacify it.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 16:14
Proverbs 16:14 The wrath of a king [is as] messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.Ver. 14. The wrath of a king is as messengers of death.] In the plural number, the better to set forth the danger of a king’ s displeasure. "Thou shalt surely die, Ahimelech." "Adonijah shall be put to death this day." "Hang Haman on the tree that is fifty cubits high," &c. Hunc pugionem tibi mittit senatus, &c. Queen Elizabeth was so reserved, that all about her stood in a reverent awe of her very presence and aspect, but much more of her least frown or check; wherewith some of them, who thought they might best presume of her favour, have been so suddenly daunted and planet stricken that they could not lay down the grief thereof but in their grave. One of these was Sir Christopher Hatton, Lord Chancellor, who died of a flux of urine and grief of mind. Neither could the queen, having once cast him down with a word, raise him up again, though she visited and comforted him. But a wise man will pacify it.] Either by some prudent speech or political device, as Abigail did David, and David Saul; as Benhadad’ s servants did Ahab, and as our King Edward I’ s servant did him. For this king venturing his life, by spurring his horse into a deep river, only to be revenged on his servant that had incensed him by a saucy answer, was soon pacified when once he saw him on his bended knees, exposing his neck to the blow of the drawn sword, wherewith the king pursued him. Omne trahit secum Caesaris ira malum. - Ovid.
Speed. Camden’ s Elisab., 406. Acts and Mon.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 16:14
14. messengers of death] The reckless fury of the Eastern despot (1 Samuel 22:16-18; Esther 7:7-10; Daniel 2:5) is but the abuse of the awful justice of the Archetypal King (Matthew 22:7; Luke 19:27). will pacify it] See Psalms 2:10-12.
Barnes' Notes on Proverbs 16:14
While Proverbs 16:13 depicts the king as he ought to be, this verse reminds us of the terrible rapidity with which, in the despotic monarchies of the East, punishment, even death, follows royal displeasure.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 16:14
14. The wrath of a king is as messengers of death — His wrath soon finds executioners. Under the despotic governments of the East there are frequently no forms of trial.
Sermons on Proverbs 16:14
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Jap-08 God Requires the Past by Art Katz | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and confessing our sins and the sins of our ancestors. He specifically mentions the Jewish people and their |
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Seeking God by Hans R. Waldvogel | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking God with one's whole heart. He uses the example of a woman searching for a lost piece of money to illustrate the d |
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The Love of Christ Constrains by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of being on a plane that faced difficulties during takeoff. Despite the challenges, the plane managed to take off and ascen |
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7 Corrective Lenses for Spiritual Eyesight by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of having spiritual vision. He uses the analogy of getting corrective lenses for our physical eyes to illustrate how we need co |
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The Street Meetings of God (Compilation) by Compilations | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the narrow path that leads to life and the importance of accepting Jesus as the savior. He highlights that salvation comes through the blood |
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The Whole Armour of God - Part 4 by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the different responses people have to the moving of the Holy Spirit. Some are receptive and responsive, while others are indifferent and u |
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You Have to Love Jesus to Follow Him by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal experience of preaching in a small church and witnessing sparrows pecking at the driveway. Through this observation, the preacher ref |