Proverbs 19:11

11 A merciful man is long-suffering; and his triumph overtakes transgressors.

Proverbs 19:11 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 19:11

The discretion of a man deferreth his anger
That he does not show it immediately; but takes time to consider of the offence given him, and makes use of a proper time to resent what is fit should be resented; he is a wise and discreet man that is slow to anger, ( Proverbs 14:29 ) ( 16:32 ) . He is most like to God, who is "longsuffering, abundant in goodness and truth", ( Exodus 34:6 ) ; and it is to the honour of his "name" that he "defers [his] anger", and "refrains from" cutting off those that offend him, ( Isaiah 48:9 ) ; and [it is] his glory to pass over a transgression;
to forgive an offence committed; it is the duty and interest of a man to do so, and it is to his honour; as the contrary greatly reflects dishonour on him, and tends to his disgrace and reproach, if not to his ruin; see ( Matthew 18:32-35 ) .

Proverbs 19:11 In-Context

9 A false witness shall not be unpunished; and whosoever shall kindle mischief shall perish by it.

10 Delight does not suit a fool, nor if a servant should begin to rule with haughtiness.

11 A merciful man is long-suffering; and his triumph overtakes transgressors.

12 The threatening of a king is like the roaring of a lion; but as dew on the grass, so is his favour.

13 A foolish son is a disgrace to his father: vows of the hire of a harlot are not pure.

Footnotes

• [a] Gr. boasting comes upon.