Quick outbursts of anger and hidden schemes both lead to isolation and pain.
In Proverbs 14:17, Scripture declares that He who is quick-tempered acts foolishly, And a man of evil devices is hated (v.17). The word picture painted here sets two paths before us: on one hand, hasty anger drives impulse and rash decisions; on the other hand, scheming or “evil devices” leads to a broader animosity within the community. This follows the pattern in Proverbs where foolish behavior flows from disregarding instruction, while wisdom stems from reverence for God and thoughtful discernment. In this verse, the “quick-tempered” person lashes out with little regard for consequences and injures both himself and others, much like the allure of folly that leads to destruction.
The first half of the verse—He who is quick-tempered acts foolishly—stresses how anger hijacks calm judgment and sows harm. Throughout Scripture, uncontrolled anger is associated with disunity and personal ruin (Ephesians 4:31James 1:19). A harsh retort, a fit of rage, or a bitter grudge resemble the path of the naïve who rush headlong into pitfalls without pausing to reflect. By contrast, those who slow down, seek understanding, and choose self-control align themselves with God’s wise design.
The second half—a man of evil devices is hated—depicts a deliberate schemer who manipulates others to serve his own ends. Such deceit—like the temptations of folly—breaks harmony in the community and sets the schemer on a lonely path toward disgrace and rejection. God’s design calls us to walk in truth and love, for He designed the world to work in mutual respect and trust. When we violate this order through manipulation, we ultimately face dire consequences (Matthew 7:13-14).
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Proverbs 14:17 meaning
In Proverbs 14:17, Scripture declares that He who is quick-tempered acts foolishly, And a man of evil devices is hated (v.17). The word picture painted here sets two paths before us: on one hand, hasty anger drives impulse and rash decisions; on the other hand, scheming or “evil devices” leads to a broader animosity within the community. This follows the pattern in Proverbs where foolish behavior flows from disregarding instruction, while wisdom stems from reverence for God and thoughtful discernment. In this verse, the “quick-tempered” person lashes out with little regard for consequences and injures both himself and others, much like the allure of folly that leads to destruction.
The first half of the verse—He who is quick-tempered acts foolishly—stresses how anger hijacks calm judgment and sows harm. Throughout Scripture, uncontrolled anger is associated with disunity and personal ruin (Ephesians 4:31 James 1:19). A harsh retort, a fit of rage, or a bitter grudge resemble the path of the naïve who rush headlong into pitfalls without pausing to reflect. By contrast, those who slow down, seek understanding, and choose self-control align themselves with God’s wise design.
The second half—a man of evil devices is hated—depicts a deliberate schemer who manipulates others to serve his own ends. Such deceit—like the temptations of folly—breaks harmony in the community and sets the schemer on a lonely path toward disgrace and rejection. God’s design calls us to walk in truth and love, for He designed the world to work in mutual respect and trust. When we violate this order through manipulation, we ultimately face dire consequences (Matthew 7:13-14).