Proverbs 29:11
What does Proverbs 29:11 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 29:11 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 29:11 means
This proverb contrasts the behavior of a fool and a wise person when faced with anger. A fool is characterized by an uncontrolled outburst of emotion, "giving full vent" to anger, implying a lack of self-restraint and possibly destructive consequences. The imagery suggests a sudden, overwhelming release like a floodgate opening. In contrast, a wise person demonstrates prudence and self-control, actively "keeping back" and "quieting" their anger. This doesn't necessarily mean suppressing it entirely, but rather managing and de-escalating it thoughtfully. The verse commends this measured response as a mark of wisdom, highlighting the importance of emotional regulation.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000A fool uttereth all his anger; But a wise man keepeth it back and stilleth it.
KJV
King James Version · 1611A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901A fool uttereth all his anger; But a wise man keepeth it back and stilleth it.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949A foolish man lets out all his wrath, but a wise man keeps it back quietly.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862A fool bringeth out all his mind, And the wise till afterwards restraineth it.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752A fool uttereth all his mind: a wise man deferreth, and keepeth it till afterwards.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890A fool uttereth all his mind; but a wise [man] keepeth it back.
Context
Proverbs 29 addresses various aspects of righteous living and the consequences of foolish or wise choices, often highlighting the impact of leadership and personal conduct. This verse is situated among other proverbs that emphasize the importance of self-control, justice, and the management of one's words and actions. It follows verses discussing the importance of a king who judges righteously and precedes proverbs about the dangers of flattery and the importance of discipline. The overall flow of chapter 29 emphasizes the societal and personal benefits of wisdom and righteous governance, making this verse a specific application of general principles regarding self-mastery and its contribution to a stable and orderly life.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Proverbs 19:11
The discretion of a man maketh him slow to anger; And it is his glory to pass over a transgression.
- Judges 16:17
And he told her all his heart, and said unto her, There hath not come a razor upon my head; for I have been a Nazirite unto God from my mother’s womb: if I be shaven, then my strength will go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any other man.
- Proverbs 12:16
A fool’s vexation is presently known; But a prudent man concealeth shame.
- Proverbs 14:33
Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding; Butthat which isin the inward part of fools is made known.
- Proverbs 12:23
A prudent man concealeth knowledge; But the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.
- Micah 7:5
Trust ye not in a neighbor; put ye not confidence in a friend; keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.
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