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Anger causes conflict, and Patience brings peace

Proverbs 15:18 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)
¹⁸A hot-tempered man stirs up strife,
but he who is slow to anger quiets contention.

This verse says that a person who is prone to anger and wrath is likely to cause conflict and disagreement, while someone who is slow to anger is more likely to calm and resolve conflicts. The idea is that a quick temper can lead to conflict and strife, while self-control and patience can help to defuse and resolve disagreements.

A wrathful man – This phrase refers to a person who is prone to anger and wrath.

Stirs up strife – The phrase “stirs up strife” means that this person is likely to cause conflict and disagreement.

But he who is slow to anger – This phrase refers to someone who is not quick to get angry, but rather has self-control and is patient.

Quiets contention – The phrase “quiets contention” means that this person is able to calm and resolve conflicts.

In the historical and cultural context of ancient Israel, self-control and patience were highly valued qualities. These virtues were seen as necessary for maintaining healthy relationships and for avoiding conflict and strife. In this context, the idea that a quick temper can lead to conflict and strife, while self-control and patience can help to defuse and resolve disagreements, would have held particular significance.

In addition, the concept of anger and wrath being negative qualities that should be avoided is a common theme in the Bible. In the book of Proverbs, anger and wrath are often portrayed as dangerous and destructive forces that can lead to conflict and harm. In this context, the idea that someone who is slow to anger is more likely to calm and resolve conflicts would have been seen as wise and virtuous.

Overall, the verse is saying that a person who is prone to anger and wrath is likely to cause conflict, while someone who is slow to anger and has self-control is more likely to calm and resolve conflicts. The idea is that a quick temper can lead to strife, while patience and self-control can help to defuse and resolve disagreements.