Proverbs 14:17 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 14:17 mean?

Proverbs 14:17 warns that someone who quickly becomes angry acts in a foolish way, and a person who schemes evil is disliked or hated by others. The verse highlights the negative results of both uncontrolled temper and intentional wrongdoing.

This proverb is part of Solomon’s collection of wise sayings, directed to anyone seeking practical wisdom for daily life. The verse draws a contrast between two types of harmful behavior: impulsive anger and calculated wickedness. Both lead to trouble, but the second—planning evil—brings lasting social rejection or hatred.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 14:17

• "soon" (קְצַר, qetsar): This word means "short" or "quick," emphasizing someone who is easily or quickly provoked. The focus is on a person whose anger flares up without much cause.
• "angry" (אַף, aph): Literally "nose" or "nostrils," this Hebrew word is often used for anger because of the flaring of nostrils when someone is upset. It paints a vivid picture of visible, heated emotion.
• "dealeth foolishly" (עָשָׂה אִוֶּלֶת, asah ivvelet): The phrase means to act in a foolish or senseless way. The emphasis is on actions that lack wisdom or self-control.
• "devices" (מְזִמָּה, mezimmah): This word refers to plans, schemes, or plots, especially those with a negative or harmful intent. It points to someone who deliberately plans wrongdoing.
• "hated" (שָׂנֵא, sane): This word means to be hated or strongly disliked, showing the social consequence of being known for evil schemes.

Why Proverbs 14:17 matters

• Proverbs 14:17 clarifies that both sudden anger and deliberate evil are destructive, but they harm in different ways—one through foolish actions, the other through damaged relationships.
• The verse helps correct the idea that only outward, obvious anger is harmful; it also warns against the quieter danger of scheming evil.
• In the context of Proverbs, this saying fits into a larger theme about the importance of self-control and integrity for a peaceful and respected life.