Proverbs 16:32 - Printer Friendly

ESV: Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.

NIV: Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.

NASB: One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And one who rules his spirit, than one who captures a city.

CSB: Patience is better than power, and controlling one's emotions, than capturing a city.

NLT: Better to be patient than powerful; better to have self-control than to conquer a city.

KJV: He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

NKJV: He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.

In this verse Solomon commends the person who controls their temper. The ability to defeat others in battle is impressive, but well-developed self-control is an even rarer gift (James 3:2; Psalm 32:8–9). Solomon makes a similar point in Proverbs 14:29, and again compares self-control to warfare in Proverbs 25:28. This is quite a commendation, as military might was extremely important and well respected in Solomon's time. Nevertheless, self-discipline that puts a lid on anger and controls passions, appetites, affections, and temper is a greater advantage than being a renowned soldier.

In 1 Corinthians 9:24–27 Paul writes about the importance of self-discipline. He points out that athletes practice self-discipline to win a temporary earthly token. Paul, however, sought self-discipline to gain rewards that would never be lost.

Proverbs 16:27–33 closes chapter 16, as Solomon continues his wise sayings. This passage contrasts evil men with men who are righteous, honest, and disciplined. Evil in the heart produces wicked speech, but righteousness in the heart shows itself in righteous living.

This part of Solomon's proverbs emphasizes human motives, self-control, and common sense. Many of these proverbs are arranged in a two-part style. The first and second half of these statements make the same basic point, but from opposite perspectives. Notable verses are verses 9 and 33, speaking of God's sovereignty, and verse 18, a famous warning about arrogance. Also often cited is verse 25, which repeats Proverbs 14:12 and encourages self-reflection.

A lengthy list of Solomon's wise sayings began in chapter 10. Chapter 16 begins a section mostly composed of comparisons and completions. It extends to Proverbs 22:16. Man's thoughts, speech, motives, and conduct are examined in this chapter. The chapter also addresses pride, evil, and injustice.

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.

Accessed 5/4/2024 5:56:16 PM