Proverbs 14:29
He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.Proverbs 14:29
What does Proverbs 14:29 mean?
This proverb contrasts two responses: a person slow to anger shows great understanding, while a person quick-tempered displays folly. Patience, here, is directly tied to wisdom.
Context
This is a short, standalone wisdom saying typical of Proverbs 10-29, which gathers many brief, often two-line proverbs contrasting wise and foolish behavior. Its placement among similar sayings about anger and self-control (see also Proverbs 15:18, 16:32) reflects a recurring theme in the book.
Key themes
Related Bible verses
Bible study
- Why do you think this proverb links patience specifically to understanding, rather than just self-control?
- What does 'hasty of spirit' look like in everyday situations?
- Where in your life would slowing down your reactions reflect more understanding?
Prayer
A short devotional prayer inspired by this verse — not scripture
Lord, give me a slow-to-anger spirit. Where I tend to react quickly, help me pause and respond with understanding instead. Amen.
Memorize this verse
He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.
Share this verse
Frequently asked questions
What kind of book is Proverbs, and where does this verse fit?
Proverbs 10-29 gathers many short, standalone wisdom sayings, often contrasting wise and foolish behavior — this verse is one of several addressing anger and self-control.
Does this proverb mean anger itself is always wrong?
The proverb contrasts being 'hasty of spirit' (quick, unrestrained anger) with being slow to wrath — it addresses the pace and control of a response, not necessarily whether anger can ever be felt.