Devine Scripture

Proverbs 19:11

What does Proverbs 19:11 mean?

A plain-English look at Proverbs 19:11 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Proverbs 19:11 means

This proverb highlights the virtue of thoughtful self-control in the face of provocation. "Discretion" refers to good judgment and understanding, particularly in practical matters, suggesting that a wise person considers the full situation before reacting impulsively. This wisdom leads to being "slow to anger," indicating a measured and patient response rather than an immediate outburst. The second part of the verse, "It is his glory to overlook an offense," elevates the act of forgiveness and choosing not to retaliate. This isn’t a sign of weakness but an honorable and distinguished characteristic. It implies intentionally letting go of an insult or injury, demonstrating maturity and a superior character.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

The discretion of a man maketh him slow to anger; And it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

The discretion of a man maketh him slow to anger; And it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

A man's good sense makes him slow to wrath, and the overlooking of wrongdoing is his glory.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

The wisdom of a man hath deferred his anger, And his glory <FI>is<Fi> to pass over transgression.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

The learning of a man is known by patience: and his glory is to pass over wrongs.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

The discretion of a man maketh him slow to anger, and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

Context

Proverbs 19 is a collection of various wisdom sayings, typical of the book’s structure, often contrasting wise and foolish behavior, and highlighting virtues like righteousness, diligence, and justice. Immediately preceding this verse, Proverbs 19:10 discusses the unsuitability of a fool or a servant to rule, emphasizing proper order and character. Following it, Proverbs 19:12 speaks of the king’s wrath and favor, continuing the theme of how authority and power are wielded. This verse, Proverbs 19:11, therefore fits within a broader tapestry of advice on righteous living, prudent conduct, and the exercise of self-control in relationships and leadership.

v.10Delicate living is not seemly for a fool; Much less for a servant to have rule over princes.

v.11This passage

v.12The king’s wrath is as the roaring of a lion; But his favor is as dew upon the grass.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Proverbs 20:3

    It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife; But every fool will be quarrelling.

  • James 1:19

    Ye knowthis, my beloved brethren. But let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

  • Romans 12:18

    If it be possible, as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men.

  • Ephesians 4:32

    and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, even as God also in Christ forgave you.

  • Proverbs 15:18

    A wrathful man stirreth up contention; But he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

  • Proverbs 14:29

    He that is slow to anger is of great understanding; But he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

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