Proverbs 16:32

32 He who controls his temper is better than a war hero, he who rules his spirit better than he who captures a city.

Proverbs 16:32 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 16:32

[He that is] slow to anger is better than the mighty
Than a mighty warrior or conqueror; as Alexander who conquered his enemies, and even all the world, and yet in his wrath slew his best friends: a man that is slow to anger is esteemed by the Lord, respected by men, and is happy in himself; and is preferable to the strongest man that is not master of himself and of his passions; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city;
one that has the command of his temper, that can govern himself, and not suffer his passions to exceed due bounds, is superior in strength to him that can storm a castle or take a fortified city; it is easier to do the one than the other; courage of mind joined with wisdom, and assisted by a proper number of persons, may do the one; but it requires the grace of God, and the assistance of his spirit, thoroughly to do the other. Cicero says F20, in all ages

``fewer men are found who conquer their own lusts than that overcome the armies of enemies.''

FOOTNOTES:

F20 Epist. l. 5. Ep. 4.

Proverbs 16:32 In-Context

30 One who winks knowingly is planning deceit; one who pinches his lips together has already done wrong.
31 White hair is a crown of honor obtained by righteous living.
32 He who controls his temper is better than a war hero, he who rules his spirit better than he who captures a city.
33 One can cast lots into one's lap, but the decision comes from ADONAI.
Complete Jewish Bible Copyright 1998 by David H. Stern. Published by Jewish New Testament Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.