Old Testament

Proverbs 25:24

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

It is better to live in the corner of a rooftop than with a brawling woman in a spacious house.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house.

What Proverbs 25:24 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse highlights the value of peace and harmony in relationships, particularly in the context of marriage. It suggests that living in a small, confined space is preferable to living in a large, comfortable home filled with conflict and strife. The term 'brawling woman' refers to a contentious or quarrelsome partner, indicating that constant arguments can make any living situation unbearable. The imagery of a rooftop corner emphasizes isolation and discomfort, yet it is still deemed better than enduring a tumultuous relationship. This proverb serves as a reminder of the importance of choosing peace over material comfort and the need for mutual respect and understanding in relationships. It encourages individuals to seek environments that foster tranquility rather than those that breed discord, underscoring the significance of emotional well-being over physical space.

How to apply Proverbs 25:24 to your life

In daily life, prioritize peaceful interactions with others, especially in close relationships. If conflicts arise, seek resolution rather than allowing arguments to escalate. Create a home environment that promotes understanding and support, ensuring that love and respect are at the forefront of your interactions.

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.

A painting of Rachel smiling as she holds her newborn son Joseph inside a lamp-lit tent

Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Joseph, Jacob's son

Wide frontal view of the Great Ziggurat of Ur, with a central brick stair rising between broad buttressed mud-brick walls in a hazy desert setting.

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.

Ur

The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Proverbs 25:24

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

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 25:24

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 25:24 mean?

Proverbs 25:24 means that it is better to live in a small, uncomfortable space than to live in a large home filled with conflict. It emphasizes the importance of peace in relationships over material comfort.

What is the meaning of 'brawling woman' in Proverbs 25:24?

The term 'brawling woman' refers to a contentious or quarrelsome partner. This phrase highlights how constant arguments and conflict can make any living situation unbearable.

How can I apply Proverbs 25:24 in my life?

To apply Proverbs 25:24, focus on creating a peaceful environment in your relationships. Prioritize resolving conflicts and fostering understanding to avoid a tumultuous atmosphere.

What themes are present in Proverbs 25:24?

The themes in Proverbs 25:24 include the importance of peace in relationships, conflict avoidance, the value of harmony, and the significance of emotional well-being over physical comfort.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.