Proverbs 27:4 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Wrath is cruel, anger is overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?

NIV: Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?

NASB: Wrath is fierce and anger is a flood, But who can stand before jealousy?

CSB: Fury is cruel, and anger a flood, but who can withstand jealousy?

NLT: Anger is cruel, and wrath is like a flood, but jealousy is even more dangerous.

KJV: Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?

NKJV: Wrath is cruel and anger a torrent, But who is able to stand before jealousy?

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).

Wise sayings from this chapter warn about overconfidence and bragging. Solomon also encourages positive friendships and the wisdom they provide. He offers several notes about self-examination and the need for personal accountability. Many of the proverbs in this passage touch on the concept of speaking truth in love, even if it's not what the other person would like to hear. The end of the chapter uses the example of livestock to make a point about good stewardship.

This continues a collection of approximately one hundred proverbs associated with Solomon. King Hezekiah's men, probably his scribes, copied these from other scrolls (Proverbs 25:1). This chapter includes references to overconfidence, the value of friendships, and the importance of good stewardship. The assembly of Solomon's wise teachings continues through the end of chapter 29.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.