Proverbs 29:8 - The Stiff-Necked will Be Destroyed

Mockers inflame a city
Mockers, often characterized by their scornful and derisive attitude, are depicted throughout the Bible as individuals who reject wisdom and godly instruction. In the context of ancient Israel, a city was a hub of social, economic, and religious life. The presence of mockers could lead to social unrest and division, as their contemptuous behavior and speech could incite others to anger and conflict. This phrase highlights the destructive power of words and attitudes that undermine community harmony. The Bible frequently warns against the influence of mockers, as seen in passages like Psalm 1:1, which advises against walking in the counsel of the wicked. Historically, cities in the ancient Near East were vulnerable to internal strife, and the presence of divisive individuals could exacerbate tensions, leading to chaos and even violence.

but the wise turn away anger
In contrast to mockers, the wise are those who possess understanding and discernment, often associated with a fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). The wise are peacemakers, using their insight to defuse potentially volatile situations. This phrase underscores the value of wisdom in maintaining social order and preventing conflict. The ability to turn away anger is a hallmark of wisdom, as seen in Proverbs 15:1, which states that a gentle answer turns away wrath. The wise are able to navigate complex social dynamics, promoting peace and reconciliation. This reflects the broader biblical theme of wisdom as a source of life and stability, as well as a reflection of God's character. The wise, in their peacemaking efforts, can be seen as types of Christ, who is the ultimate peacemaker, reconciling humanity to God and to one another through His sacrificial love.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mockers
Individuals who scorn or ridicule others, often causing discord and unrest within a community. In the Hebrew text, the word used is (letsim), which refers to those who are arrogant and dismissive of wisdom and instruction.

2. Wise
Those who possess and apply godly wisdom, promoting peace and understanding. The Hebrew word (chakamim) is used, indicating individuals who are prudent and discerning.

3. City
Represents a community or society at large. The actions of individuals, whether mockers or wise, have a significant impact on the collective well-being of the community.

4. Anger
A strong feeling of displeasure or hostility. The wise are depicted as having the ability to "turn away" or "calm" anger, suggesting a proactive role in conflict resolution.

Teaching Points

The Power of Words
Words have the power to either inflame or calm a situation. As Christians, we are called to use our words wisely to build up rather than tear down.

The Role of Wisdom in Conflict
Wisdom is not just knowledge but the application of godly principles in everyday life. In conflicts, wisdom seeks to understand and resolve rather than escalate.

Promoting Peace in the Community
As believers, we are called to be peacemakers in our communities. This involves actively seeking to diffuse tensions and promote harmony.

Guarding Against Mockery
Mockery is a tool of the enemy to sow discord. We must guard our hearts and minds against becoming mockers ourselves and instead strive to be voices of reason and peace.

Reflecting Christ in Our Interactions
Our interactions should reflect the character of Christ, who is the ultimate example of wisdom and peace. In every situation, we should ask ourselves how Jesus would respond.

Lists and Questions

Top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 29What defines a scorner's traits and behavior in the Bible?How can we wisely manage our resources and finances?Proverbs 8:29: Does the statement about setting boundaries for the sea conflict with scientific evidence of changing coastlines over geological time?What defines common sense?

(8) Scornful men.--See above on Proverbs 1:22.

Bring a city into a snare.--Rather, excite the passions of; literally, fan, as a flame.

Wise men turn away wrath.--By their gentle counsels.

Verse 8. - Scornful men bring a airy into a snare. "Men of derision" (Isaiah 28:14) are those who despise and scoff at all things great and high, whether sacred or profane (see on Proverbs 1:22). These are the persons who raise rebellion in a country and excite opposition to constituted authority. The rendering of יָפִיתיּ, "bring into a snare," as in the Authorized Version, is supported by some of the Jewish versions and commentaries; but the more correct rendering is "blow into a blaze, inflame," as the Revised Version (comp. Job 20:26; Ezekiel 22:20, 21). These scorners excite the populace to acts of fury, when all respect for piety and virtue is lost; they fan the passions of the fickle people, and lead them to civil discord and dangerous excesses (comp. Proverbs 22:10). Septuagint, "Lawless men burn up a city." But wise men turn away wrath; by their prudent counsels allay the angry passions roused by those evil men (see Ver. 11 and Proverbs 15:1, 18). Parallel Commentaries ...

Hebrew

Mockers
אַנְשֵׁ֣י (’an·šê)
Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 376: A man as an individual, a male person

inflame
יָפִ֣יחוּ (yā·p̄î·ḥū)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 6315: To puff, blow with the breath, air, to fan, to utter, to kindle, to scoff

a city,
קִרְיָ֑ה (qir·yāh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 7151: A town, city

but the wise
וַ֝חֲכָמִ֗ים (wa·ḥă·ḵā·mîm)
Conjunctive waw | Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 2450: Wise

turn away
יָשִׁ֥יבוּ (yā·šî·ḇū)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 7725: To turn back, in, to retreat, again

anger.
אָֽף׃ (’āp̄)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 639: The nose, nostril, the face, a person, ire

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