It is an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling.

PROVERBS 20:3KJV
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Proverbs 20:3 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 20:3 mean?

Proverbs 20:3 says that it is a mark of respect and dignity for a person to avoid arguments, but people who lack wisdom are always getting involved in quarrels. The verse highlights the value of self-control and the foolishness of constantly stirring up trouble.

In the book of Proverbs, these sayings are collected as practical wisdom for everyday life, often directed from a teacher or parent to a younger listener. Proverbs 20:3 contrasts the honorable choice to step away from conflict with the behavior of a "fool," who is quick to meddle in disputes. The verse encourages choosing peace over needless strife.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 20:3

  • "honour" (כָּבוֹד, kavod): This word means weight, glory, or respect. Here, it points to the idea that stepping away from arguments adds to a person's dignity and reputation.
  • "cease" (שֶׁבֶת, shevet): This word means to rest or stop. In this context, it refers to the deliberate act of not engaging in strife, showing restraint.
  • "strife" (רִיב, riv): This word means a quarrel, dispute, or controversy. The verse focuses on avoiding unnecessary arguments, not just physical fights.
  • "fool" (אֱוִיל, evil): This word describes someone who is morally dull or lacking in sense, not just someone who is silly.
  • "meddling" (גָּלַע, gala): This word often means to break out or burst forth, suggesting a person who cannot help but get involved and stir things up.

Why Proverbs 20:3 matters

  • Proverbs 20:3 clarifies that true strength and honor are shown by avoiding unnecessary arguments, not by winning them.
  • The verse challenges the common idea that being involved in every dispute makes someone strong or wise, instead linking constant meddling to foolishness.
  • This proverb fits into the broader theme of Proverbs, which often contrasts wise and foolish behavior to guide readers toward a life marked by peace and good judgment.

Where else these words appear

“cease” Hebrew H7674 · used in 3 verses

  • Exodus 21:19 If he rise again, and walk abroad upon his staff, then shall he that smote him be quit: only he shall pay for the loss of his time, and shall cause him to be thoroughly healed.
  • Isaiah 30:7 For the Egyptians shall help in vain, and to no purpose: therefore have I cried concerning this, Their strength is to sit still.

“meddling” Hebrew H1566 · used in 3 verses

  • Proverbs 17:14 The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
  • Proverbs 18:1 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom.

“fool” Hebrew H191 · used in 26 verses

  • Job 5:2 For wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one.
  • Proverbs 10:21 The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.
  • Proverbs 17:28 Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

“strife” Hebrew H7379 · used in 61 verses

  • Genesis 13:7 And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram's cattle and the herdmen of Lot's cattle: and the Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land.
  • Job 31:13 If I did despise the cause of my manservant or of my maidservant, when they contended with me;
  • Proverbs 30:33 Surely the churning of milk bringeth forth butter, and the wringing of the nose bringeth forth blood: so the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife.