¶ If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for yielding pacifieth great offences.
If the spirit {H7307} of the ruler {H4910} rise up {H5927} against thee, leave {H3240} not thy place {H4725}; for yielding {H4832} pacifieth {H3240} great {H1419} offences {H2399}.
If a ruler gets angry at you, stay at your post, because calmness soothes great offenses.
If the ruler’s temper flares against you, do not abandon your post, for calmness lays great offenses to rest.
If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for gentleness allayeth great offences.
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Ecclesiastes 8:3
Be not hasty to go out of his sight: stand not in an evil thing; for he doeth whatsoever pleaseth him. -
Proverbs 25:15
¶ By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone. -
1 Samuel 25:24
And fell at his feet, and said, Upon me, my lord, [upon] me [let this] iniquity [be]: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine audience, and hear the words of thine handmaid. -
1 Samuel 25:44
But Saul had given Michal his daughter, David's wife, to Phalti the son of Laish, which [was] of Gallim.
Ecclesiastes 10:4 offers a profound piece of wisdom regarding how to respond when faced with the anger or displeasure of a person in authority. It advises a calm, measured approach rather than immediate flight or defiance, emphasizing the power of patience and humility in de-escalating tense situations.
Context
The book of Ecclesiastes, often attributed to King Solomon (referred to as "Qoheleth," the Preacher), explores the complexities and often perplexing nature of life "under the sun." This verse is part of a larger section in chapter 10 that contrasts wisdom with folly, particularly in the realm of governance and social interaction. It provides practical advice on navigating the challenges of living under human authority, a common and often precarious situation in ancient societies.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word translated "yielding" (מַרְפֶּה - marpe) in this context carries the sense of "healing," "remedy," or "quietness." It suggests that a calm, non-confrontational demeanor acts as a soothing balm, alleviating the ruler's anger. It implies a measured, patient response, not necessarily capitulation to injustice, but a strategic de-escalation that allows reason to prevail. The phrase "pacifieth great offences" (יַנִּיחַ חֲטָאִים גְּדֹלִים - yanniah chata'im gedolim) literally means "it lets go of great sins" or "it causes great errors to rest/be quieted." This indicates that a patient, humble approach can prevent minor issues from escalating into major conflicts or perceived transgressions, effectively making them "rest" or be forgotten.
Practical Application
Ecclesiastes 10:4 offers timeless advice for navigating difficult relationships, particularly those involving power dynamics, in various aspects of life: