Proverbs 20:3
It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.
Original Language Analysis
כָּב֣וֹד
It is an honour
H3519
כָּב֣וֹד
It is an honour
Strong's:
H3519
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness
לָ֭אִישׁ
for a man
H376
לָ֭אִישׁ
for a man
Strong's:
H376
Word #:
2 of 7
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
וְכָל
H3605
וְכָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Cross References
Proverbs 16:32He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.Proverbs 17:14The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.Proverbs 14:29He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.Proverbs 19:11The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.Proverbs 18:6A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.James 4:1From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?
Historical Context
Legal disputes and public quarrels were common in ancient courts. The wise avoided unnecessary conflict, while fools eagerly engaged in every controversy.
Questions for Reflection
- What conflicts do you need to cease from for the sake of peace?
- How can you be a peacemaker rather than meddler in others' quarrels?
Analysis & Commentary
Ceasing from strife brings honor, while every fool meddles in quarrels. Peacemaking requires strength to restrain oneself, while stirring up conflict reveals foolish lack of self-control. This echoes Jesus' blessing on peacemakers (Matthew 5:9).