It is better to live in a corner of a roof Than in a house shared with a contentious woman (v.9). These words come from King Solomon, who reigned in Israel from about 970 to 931 BC, and is traditionally seen as the primary author of the book of Proverbs. Solomon offers a vivid mental picture of someone who would rather retreat to a cramped, isolated space than remain in the presence of repeated conflict. The phrase “corner of a roof” invokes the image of a small and precarious spot, yet Solomon insists even that is preferable to enduring the stress and tension that continuous arguments can bring to a household.
It is better to live in a corner of a roof Than in a house shared with a contentious woman (v.9) teaches us that constant contention can make any situation unbearable, distancing us from true fellowship and peace. While Solomon addresses the issue of strife within marriage, the principle applies to all relationships: chronic conflict leaves little room for harmony or growth. Such advice resonates with other biblical counsel encouraging believers to “be at peace with one another” (Romans 12:18), illustrating that God desires unity and tranquility in our interactions.
It is better to live in a corner of a roof Than in a house shared with a contentious woman (v.9) further reminds the reader of the Old Testament’s and New Testament’s strong emphasis on peacemaking (Matthew 5:9). Jesus Himself taught that we should seek reconciliation and resolve disputes quickly (Matthew 5:23-24). By highlighting the downsides of living with discord, Solomon points us toward establishing respectful communication, empathy, and humility in our relationships, so we can avoid the bitterness of constant arguments.
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Proverbs 21:9 meaning
It is better to live in a corner of a roof Than in a house shared with a contentious woman (v.9). These words come from King Solomon, who reigned in Israel from about 970 to 931 BC, and is traditionally seen as the primary author of the book of Proverbs. Solomon offers a vivid mental picture of someone who would rather retreat to a cramped, isolated space than remain in the presence of repeated conflict. The phrase “corner of a roof” invokes the image of a small and precarious spot, yet Solomon insists even that is preferable to enduring the stress and tension that continuous arguments can bring to a household.
It is better to live in a corner of a roof Than in a house shared with a contentious woman (v.9) teaches us that constant contention can make any situation unbearable, distancing us from true fellowship and peace. While Solomon addresses the issue of strife within marriage, the principle applies to all relationships: chronic conflict leaves little room for harmony or growth. Such advice resonates with other biblical counsel encouraging believers to “be at peace with one another” (Romans 12:18), illustrating that God desires unity and tranquility in our interactions.
It is better to live in a corner of a roof Than in a house shared with a contentious woman (v.9) further reminds the reader of the Old Testament’s and New Testament’s strong emphasis on peacemaking (Matthew 5:9). Jesus Himself taught that we should seek reconciliation and resolve disputes quickly (Matthew 5:23-24). By highlighting the downsides of living with discord, Solomon points us toward establishing respectful communication, empathy, and humility in our relationships, so we can avoid the bitterness of constant arguments.