A well-timed, sincere gesture, offered quietly, has the power to soothe even the most agitated spirit.
“A gift in secret subdues anger, And a bribe in the bosom, strong wrath.” (v.14) This proverb is brief, yet it addresses the complexity of human interactions and the motives behind them. The first half, “A gift in secret subdues anger,” (v.14) implies that a timely word or deed—especially when it is offered discreetly—can soften the heat of animosity. Throughout Scripture, we see the principle of giving quietly without seeking public approval (Matthew 6:1-4), which aligns with how this proverb asserts that good deeds, done without fanfare, can calm conflict and ease tension.
Continuing, “…And a bribe in the bosom, strong wrath,” (v.14) shifts the perspective to the darker use of gifts. A bribe, given secretly and with ulterior motives, may temporarily sway justice, but it breeds corruption and fosters moral decay (Deuteronomy 16:19). Although the proverb states that a bribe can quell “strong wrath,” it does so in a manipulative manner that ultimately undermines genuine righteousness. Proverbs as a whole repeatedly warns against such dishonest or deceptive practices because they erode trust and lead to broader societal harm.
In the broader context of Proverbial teaching, this verse highlights the influence of hidden actions—both righteous and unrighteous. A gift given humbly can mend relationships. However, a bribe, no matter how well it pacifies someone’s fury, does nothing to foster true integrity or restore genuine peace. God cares not only about outward actions but also the intentions of the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).
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Proverbs 21:14 meaning
“A gift in secret subdues anger, And a bribe in the bosom, strong wrath.” (v.14) This proverb is brief, yet it addresses the complexity of human interactions and the motives behind them. The first half, “A gift in secret subdues anger,” (v.14) implies that a timely word or deed—especially when it is offered discreetly—can soften the heat of animosity. Throughout Scripture, we see the principle of giving quietly without seeking public approval (Matthew 6:1-4), which aligns with how this proverb asserts that good deeds, done without fanfare, can calm conflict and ease tension.
Continuing, “…And a bribe in the bosom, strong wrath,” (v.14) shifts the perspective to the darker use of gifts. A bribe, given secretly and with ulterior motives, may temporarily sway justice, but it breeds corruption and fosters moral decay (Deuteronomy 16:19). Although the proverb states that a bribe can quell “strong wrath,” it does so in a manipulative manner that ultimately undermines genuine righteousness. Proverbs as a whole repeatedly warns against such dishonest or deceptive practices because they erode trust and lead to broader societal harm.
In the broader context of Proverbial teaching, this verse highlights the influence of hidden actions—both righteous and unrighteous. A gift given humbly can mend relationships. However, a bribe, no matter how well it pacifies someone’s fury, does nothing to foster true integrity or restore genuine peace. God cares not only about outward actions but also the intentions of the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).