What does Proverbs 27:4 mean?

After noting the strain caused by a fool's "provocation" (Proverbs 27:3), Solomon acknowledges the hurt inflicted by wrath and anger. Some damage is done to the targets of anger, some is done to the person who loses control to rage (Proverbs 14:17, 29; 15:1; 22:24; 29:22). "Wrath" is typically thought of as the results of "anger," but both usually end at some point. Especially in the worst cases, a person can wear themselves out or grow tired of expressing naked fury. However, jealousy does not rest. While it doesn't burn as hot or violently as pure rage, a jealous feeling can persist until it leads to an act of revenge. Even then, it is usually not entirely satisfied. This is one reason the Bible warns against pursuing revenge (Romans 12:19).

The Bible condemns jealousy. The apostle Peter exhorts believers to put aside envy (1 Peter 2:1). The apostle Paul includes jealousy and envy in his list of works of the flesh (Galatians 5:20–21). He notes that a life marked by persistent envy and jealousy is one separated from the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:21). King Saul became jealous of David when Israelite women sang David's praises: "Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands" (1 Samuel 18:7). This comparison enraged Saul, and he hated David from that day on (1 Samuel 18:7–9). Not long after hearing the women praise David, Saul tried to kill him (1 Samuel 18:11).