The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

PROVERBS 19:11KJV
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Proverbs 19:11 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 19:11 mean?

Proverbs 19:11 teaches that a wise person shows good judgment by holding back anger and that it is honorable to forgive or overlook an offense. The verse highlights the value of patience and self-control, suggesting that true dignity comes from not reacting harshly to others’ mistakes.

This proverb comes from the collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, directed toward anyone seeking practical guidance for daily life. The verse encourages readers to consider how responding calmly and choosing forgiveness reflects maturity and brings respect, rather than letting anger dictate their actions.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 19:11

  • The word for "discretion" is שֵׂכֶל (sekel), which often means good sense or insight. Here, it points to thoughtful judgment that helps a person manage their emotions wisely.
  • "Deferreth" comes from אָרַךְ (’arakh), meaning to prolong or delay. The idea is that a person with understanding can slow down their anger, not letting it flare up quickly.
  • "Glory" is תִּפְאֶרֶת (tiferet), meaning honor or splendor. In this context, it suggests that choosing to forgive or overlook a wrong is something truly admirable.
  • "Transgression" is פֶּשַׁע (pesha‘), which refers to an offense or wrongdoing. The verse focuses on the ability to let go of personal grievances, not just minor annoyances.

Why Proverbs 19:11 matters

  • Proverbs 19:11 corrects the common idea that reacting strongly to an offense is a sign of strength; instead, it shows that real strength lies in patience and restraint.
  • The verse emphasizes that forgiveness is not weakness but a mark of true honor, shifting the focus from revenge to dignity.
  • This teaching fits into the broader themes of Proverbs, which often contrast wise and foolish behavior, urging readers to choose the path that leads to peace and respect in relationships.

Where else these words appear

“discretion” Hebrew H7922 · used in 16 verses

  • 1 Samuel 25:3 Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb.
  • Ezra 8:18 And by the good hand of our God upon us they brought us a man of understanding, of the sons of Mahli, the son of Levi, the son of Israel; and Sherebiah, with his sons and his brethren, eighteen;
  • Proverbs 12:8 A man shall be commended according to his wisdom: but he that is of a perverse heart shall be despised.

“deferreth” Hebrew H748 · used in 34 verses

  • Genesis 26:8 And it came to pass, when he had been there a long time, that Abimelech king of the Philistines looked out at a window, and saw, and, behold, Isaac was sporting with Rebekah his wife.
  • Deuteronomy 22:7 But thou shalt in any wise let the dam go, and take the young to thee; that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest prolong thy days.
  • Proverbs 28:2 For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding and knowledge the state thereof shall be prolonged.

“glory” Hebrew H8597 · used in 50 verses

  • Exodus 28:2 And thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for glory and for beauty.
  • Proverbs 20:29 The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the gray head.
  • Isaiah 63:12 That led them by the right hand of Moses with his glorious arm, dividing the water before them, to make himself an everlasting name?

“transgression” Hebrew H6588 · used in 90 verses

  • Genesis 31:36 And Jacob was wroth, and chode with Laban: and Jacob answered and said to Laban, What is my trespass? what is my sin, that thou hast so hotly pursued after me?
  • Psalms 51:1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
  • Lamentations 1:14 The yoke of my transgressions is bound by his hand: they are wreathed, and come up upon my neck: he hath made my strength to fall, the Lord hath delivered me into their hands, from whom I am not able to rise up.