Proverbs 16:32
What does Proverbs 16:32 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 16:32 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 16:32 means
This proverb extols self-control over brute strength or conquest. "Slow to anger" and "rules his spirit" both refer to the discipline of restraining one's immediate impulses and emotions, particularly wrath. The imagery contrasts this inner struggle with outwardly impressive feats: being "mighty" or "taking a city." The verse asserts that mastering oneself is a more significant and praiseworthy achievement than overcoming external foes or possessing great physical power. It prioritizes character and emotional maturity, suggesting that true strength lies not in domination, but in temperance and patience. This wisdom encourages introspection and personal virtue above worldly success or aggression.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; And he that ruleth his spirit, than he that taketh a city.
KJV
King James Version · 1611He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; And he that ruleth his spirit, than he that taketh a city.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949He who is slow to be angry is better than a man of war, and he who has control over his spirit than he who takes a town.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862Better <FI>is<Fi> the slow to anger than the mighty, And the ruler over his spirit than he who is taking a city.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752The patient man is better than the valiant: and he that ruleth his spirit, than he that taketh cities.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.
Context
Proverbs 16 delves into themes of wisdom, righteousness, and the sovereignty of God. This particular verse (16:32) appears amidst a series of couplets offering practical wisdom for living. Preceding verses discuss the Lord's role in human plans (16:1-9) and the value of righteousness and justice (16:10-15), while subsequent verses continue to offer advice on humility, pride, and the benefits of wisdom (16:18-33). Thus, 16:32 fits seamlessly into a chapter that emphasizes godly character and prudent behavior as foundational for a well-ordered life, reinforcing the idea that internal virtues outweigh external accomplishments.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Romans 12:21
Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
- Revelation 3:21
He that overcometh, I will give to him to sit down with me in my throne, as I also overcame, and sat down with my Father in his throne.
- James 1:19
Ye knowthis, my beloved brethren. But let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
- Ephesians 5:1
Be ye therefore imitators of God, as beloved children;
- Proverbs 25:28
He whose spirit is without restraint Islikea city that is broken down and without walls.
- Proverbs 15:18
A wrathful man stirreth up contention; But he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.
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