Proverbs 16:14

14 A king’s wrath is a messenger of death, but the wise will appease it.

Proverbs 16:14 in Other Translations

14 The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.

14 A king’s wrath is a messenger of death, and a wise man will appease it.

14 The anger of the king is a deadly threat; the wise will try to appease it.

14 An intemperate leader wreaks havoc in lives; you're smart to stay clear of someone like that.

14 The wrath of a king is [as] messengers of death; But a wise man will pacify it.

14 A king's anger announces death, but a wise man makes peace with him.

14 A king's fury is a messenger of death, but a wise man appeases it.

14 An angry king can order your death. But a wise man will try to calm him down.

Proverbs 16:14 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 16:14

The wrath of a king [is as] messengers of death
Or, "angels of death", as the Targum. As the wrath of Ahasuerus was to Haman; when it is either discovered in the countenance of a king, or expressed by his words, or signified by a messenger; it sometimes has been immediate death to a person, and often as terrible as if a messenger brought the sentence of death; yea, it is as if one messenger after another was sent on such an errand, and therefore the word is in the plural number. How terrible is the wrath of the King of kings; and even to kings themselves, who are represented as flying to rocks and mountains to hide them from it! ( Revelation 6:15-17 ) ; but a wise man will pacify it;
by a proper acknowledgment of the offence committed; or by a prudent representation of his case, or the case of his friends; by soft answers and strong arguments, as Jonathan pacified the wrath of King Saul his father against David. He is a wise man that believes in Christ, and pleads his propitiatory sacrifice for the expiation of his sin, at the same time frankly acknowledging it.

Proverbs 16:14 In-Context

12 Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established through righteousness.

13 Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value the one who speaks what is right.

14 A king’s wrath is a messenger of death, but the wise will appease it.

15 When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.

16 How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!

Cross References

• 1. S Genesis 40:2; S Job 29:24; Proverbs 20:2; Proverbs 19:12
• 2. Proverbs 25:15; Proverbs 29:8; Ecclesiastes 10:4