Old Testament
Proverbs 29:8
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the impact of attitudes and behaviors on a community.
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Scornful men bring a city into a snare, but wise men turn away wrath.
Scornful men bring a city into a snare: but wise men turn away wrath.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the impact of attitudes and behaviors on a community. Scornful men, who are often arrogant and dismissive, can lead a city into trouble, creating conflict and division. Their negative influence can ensnare the community in strife and chaos. In contrast, wise men, who act with understanding and prudence, have the ability to diffuse anger and prevent conflict. They promote peace and harmony, steering the community away from potential disasters. The verse emphasizes the importance of wisdom and the consequences of scornful behavior, suggesting that the character of individuals can significantly affect the well-being of a society.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Proverbs 29:8 to your life
To apply this verse, strive to embody wisdom in your interactions. Avoid scornful attitudes that can lead to conflict. Instead, seek to understand others and promote peace in your community. Your actions can either uplift or harm those around you, so choose wisely.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 29:8 mean?
Proverbs 29:8 means that arrogant and scornful individuals can create chaos and conflict within a community, while wise individuals have the ability to calm anger and promote peace.
What is the meaning of scornful men in Proverbs 29:8?
In Proverbs 29:8, scornful men refer to those who are dismissive and arrogant, whose negative attitudes can lead to trouble and division in society.
How can I apply Proverbs 29:8 in my life?
To apply Proverbs 29:8, focus on being wise in your interactions by avoiding scornful attitudes and instead promoting understanding and peace among those around you.
What does wise men turn away wrath mean in Proverbs 29:8?
The phrase 'wise men turn away wrath' means that individuals who act with wisdom and understanding can diffuse anger and prevent conflicts, fostering a more peaceful environment.

The Book of Proverbs
Proverbs 1: The Beginning of Knowledge
These are the proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel. They are given to know wisdom and instruction, to understand words of insight, and to receive instruction in wise behavior, justice, judgment, and fairness. They are written to give prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young. A wise person hears and increases learning, and a person of understanding gains wise counsel. The fear of the LORD is stated as the beginning of knowledge, while fools despise wisdom and instruction.
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