Old Testament
Proverbs 19:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
A person's wisdom makes them slow to anger, and it is their glory to overlook an offense.
Compare translations
The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.
What Proverbs 19:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the importance of wisdom in managing our emotions, particularly anger. It suggests that a wise person is patient and takes time to respond rather than reacting impulsively. By being slow to anger, they demonstrate self-control and maturity. Additionally, the verse emphasizes the value of forgiveness and grace, indicating that overlooking minor offenses is a mark of honor. Instead of holding grudges or seeking revenge, a wise individual chooses to let go of small wrongs, which fosters peace and harmony in relationships. This approach not only reflects personal strength but also contributes to a more positive and understanding community. In essence, wisdom leads to a more measured response to conflict and encourages a spirit of forgiveness, which is beneficial for both the individual and those around them.
How to apply Proverbs 19:11 to your life
In daily life, practice being slow to anger by taking a moment to breathe and reflect before responding to provocations. Choose to overlook minor offenses and focus on maintaining harmony in your relationships. This approach can lead to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 19:11
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Fuller verse explanations
Explore what a verse means, what was happening around it, and how it connects to other Bible passages.
Plain Meaning
A man with good judgment holds his anger back instead of reacting fast. The verse says it is a point of honor to let an offense go. Choosing not to strike back when someone wrongs you is treated here as a sign of strength, not weakness.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Proverbs 19:11 and any verse in the Bible.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 19:11
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 19:11 mean?
Proverbs 19:11 emphasizes that wisdom helps a person manage their anger and respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively. It highlights the honor in forgiving others and letting go of minor offenses.
What is the meaning of wisdom in Proverbs 19:11?
In Proverbs 19:11, wisdom refers to the ability to control one's emotions, particularly anger. A wise person takes time to consider their reactions and chooses to overlook small wrongs, promoting peace.
How can I apply Proverbs 19:11 in my life?
You can apply Proverbs 19:11 by practicing patience when you feel anger rising. Take a moment to breathe and reflect before reacting, and choose to forgive minor offenses to maintain harmony in your relationships.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.