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Hated Because of Thinking Ability

Proverbs 14:17 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)
¹⁷A man of quick temper acts foolishly,
and a man of thinking abilities is hated.

The English Standard Version renders 17b “a man of evil devices is hated” while the Christian Standard Bible has “one who schemes is hated.” This is because the Hebrew word (מְזִמָּה mezimmah) translated “thinking abilities” here in the UASV can mean discernment, discretion, scheme, or malicious thinking. A man of evil devices or schemes or wicked ideas is, of course, hated. However, so is the man of good judgment who exercises his thinking abilities and determines to be “no part of the world.” – John 15:19.

A man of quick temper acts foolishly: The Hebrew (אַף aph) rendered quick temper is also the word for nose or nostril and is frequently used figuratively for anger. Because of the violent breathing or snorting when someone is deeply enraged. It is also used when referring to God’s actions because of his anger (Ps. 18:8, 15; Eze. 38:18), related to (אַף aph) is (אָנַף anaph) referring to being “incensed.” The foolishness (אִוֶּלֶת ivveleth) of the foolish one, who has the trait of acting stupidly or rashly because he is devoid of wisdom or understanding, also has the sense within the Hebrew noun that draws attention to the evil behaviors which occur in this state.

Men who are excessively passionate about something, maybe sports, can evidence anger issues. Men who are grumpy, cranky, spiteful, irritable, petulant, and touchy are easily irritated, especially by unimportant things, and are soon angry upon the least thing that provokes them. These men say and do that, which is ridiculous and nonsensical. They will have few friends because people will feel a strong dislike and disrespect for them. Once the person calms down, and the anger has subsided, shame sets in and even mild depression. Sometimes this guilt and shame can motivate change.

and a man of thinking abilities is hated: The Hebrew rendered thinking Ability: (מְזִמָּה mezimmah) in the evil sense, this can mean wicked plans, evil ideas, schemes, and devices. In the favorable sense, it can mean shrewdness, perceptiveness, discretion, and prudence. In the favorable sense, it is the ability to judge wisely and objectively. Mezimmah, therefore, the human mind and thoughts can be used for an admirable and upright end or evil purposes. – Ps 10:2; Pro. 1:4; 2:10-12; 5:1-2.

Looking at this thinking Ability: (מְזִמָּה mezimmah) in the evil sense, we have malicious men who have every intention to harm and are rightly feared and detested, for they are very dangerous and scheming evil: A man of wicked schemes, who conceals his malice, hate, bitterness, and ire until the opportunity presents itself acting on his twisted rage, all along secretly plotting how to bring harm to another, as Cain killed Abel. Such a man as this is repulsive to all mankind. The character of a man who is constantly angry is pitiable; he is constantly disgracing himself. But the moment the anger has life, the guilt sets in, and shame overcomes him. But that of a malicious, hateful, cruel, and vindictive man is offensive, disgusting, and repulsive; there is no cure for him.