Ecclesiastes 7:9

KJV

Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.

KJV (with Strong's)

Be not hasty {H926} in thy spirit {H7307} to be angry {H3707}: for anger {H3708} resteth {H5117} in the bosom {H2436} of fools {H3684}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Don't be quick to get angry, for [only] fools nurse anger.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger settles in the lap of a fool.

American Standard Version

Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry; for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 7:9 offers a profound and practical proverb from Qoheleth, admonishing against a quick temper and an agitated spirit. It starkly declares that an impulsive, easily provoked disposition is a hallmark of foolishness, for anger finds a settled and habitual dwelling place in the innermost being of those who lack wisdom and discernment. This verse serves as a timeless warning against emotional volatility, contrasting the destructive nature of uncontrolled wrath with the measured and patient response characteristic of the wise.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ecclesiastes 7 marks a significant shift in Qoheleth's discourse, moving from broader philosophical inquiries into the vanity of life "under the sun" to more specific, practical wisdom and proverbial instruction. This chapter, particularly verses 1-14, presents a series of paradoxical yet insightful observations on life's realities, often highlighting the value of seemingly difficult experiences (e.g., sorrow, rebuke) as superior pathways to wisdom compared to fleeting pleasures. Verse 9, "Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools," is seamlessly integrated into this collection of practical advice. It immediately follows counsel on patience and the enduring value of a good name, reinforcing the chapter's overarching emphasis on cultivating a measured and discerning approach to life's challenges, recognizing the limitations of human understanding and the ultimate sovereignty of God.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israelite wisdom literature, as seen in books like Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, consistently championed self-control, discernment, and the cultivation of a righteous character as foundational virtues. In a communal society where honor, reputation, and social harmony were paramount, uncontrolled anger was viewed as a highly destructive force. It could lead to swift and severe consequences, disrupting relationships, inciting violence, and bringing shame upon individuals and families. The wisdom tradition frequently contrasts the wise person, who is characterized by patience and restraint, with the fool, who is quick-tempered and prone to bringing trouble upon themselves and others. Qoheleth's admonition in this verse reflects this deeply ingrained cultural understanding that emotional mastery was not merely a personal virtue but a societal necessity, rooted in a broader theological framework that valued peace and righteousness.
* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several core themes prevalent in Ecclesiastes and the wider biblical wisdom tradition. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Self-Control and Patience**, advocating for a deliberate and thoughtful response over impulsive emotional outbursts. This aligns with the broader biblical emphasis on emotional discipline as a mark of spiritual maturity, as seen in passages like [Proverbs 16:32, which declares that "Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty"](/proverbs/16-32 "Proverbs 16:32 - The Patient are Mighty"). Secondly, the verse sharply delineates the fundamental contrast between **Wisdom and Folly**. The wise person, characterized by patience and discernment, stands in stark opposition to the "fool" (Hebrew: _kᵉçîyl_), whose "bosom" is depicted as a permanent dwelling place for anger. This distinction is central to Ecclesiastes, where wisdom is pursued as the means to navigate life's complexities, while folly inevitably leads to vexation, strife, and destruction, a concept frequently highlighted in [Proverbs 14:29, which states, "Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly"](/proverbs/14-29 "Proverbs 14:29 - Patience and Understanding"). Lastly, the verse offers profound insight into the **Nature of Anger** itself, portraying it not merely as a fleeting emotion but as a deeply rooted, habitual disposition that "resteth" or settles in the heart of the foolish, implying a cherished or ingrained state rather than a temporary visitor.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **bâhal (Hebrew, _bâhal'_):** "Be not **hasty**" (H926): This Hebrew root conveys a sense of inward trembling, agitation, or being suddenly alarmed. When applied to the spirit, it suggests a state of being easily flustered, disquieted, or prone to anxious haste. It implies a lack of calm and composure, leading to rash actions or reactions rather than thoughtful deliberation.
* **rûwach (Hebrew, _rûwach'_):** "in thy **spirit**" (H7307): While often translated as "wind" or "breath," in this context, _rûwach_ refers to one's inner disposition, temperament, or emotional state. To be "hasty in thy spirit" therefore means to possess an agitated, easily provoked, or impetuous temperament—a quickness to react emotionally without proper reflection.
* **nûwach (Hebrew, _nûwach'_):** "**resteth**" (H5117): This verb means to settle down, to dwell, to find rest, or to remain. Its use here is highly significant, implying that for the fool, anger is not a fleeting emotion but a permanent resident, a characteristic state of being. It suggests a deep-seated tendency to harbor resentment or to react disproportionately, finding a comfortable and habitual home in an undisciplined heart.
* **kᵉçîyl (Hebrew, _kᵉçîyl'_):** "of **fools**" (H3684): This term describes someone who is stupid, silly, or morally deficient, often characterized by a lack of discernment and an inability to learn from experience or divine instruction. In wisdom literature, the _kᵉçîyl_ is not merely intellectually dull but morally perverse, choosing a path contrary to wisdom and righteousness, often leading to self-inflicted harm and social discord.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry":** This opening imperative serves as a direct and strong prohibition against allowing one's inner disposition (_rûwach_) to become agitated (_bâhal_) or quick to anger. It is a call for deliberate cultivation of patience and emotional control, urging the reader to resist the impulsive surge of wrath that can arise from an undisciplined temperament. It emphasizes the importance of self-mastery and thoughtful restraint in the face of provocation.
* **"for anger resteth in the bosom of fools":** This second clause provides the foundational rationale for the preceding command. It explains that a quick temper and the harboring of anger are definitive marks of a "fool" (_kᵉçîyl_). The vivid imagery of anger "resting" (_nûwach_) in the "bosom" (_chêyq_) suggests that for the foolish, anger is not a transient visitor but a cherished companion, a settled and habitual disposition. It implies that the fool embraces or allows anger to reside deeply within their core, influencing their thoughts, words, and actions, rather than expelling or mastering it.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 7:9 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message with memorable impact. The most prominent device is **Proverbial Wisdom**, presenting a concise, memorable, and universally applicable truth about human behavior and its consequences. There is a clear **Contrast** established between the wise person, who heeds the warning against haste, and the fool, who embodies the very trait being condemned. The phrase "anger resteth in the bosom of fools" utilizes vivid **Imagery** and a form of **Personification**, where anger is depicted as an entity that can "rest" or take up permanent residence. This personification elevates anger from a mere fleeting emotion to an indwelling characteristic, suggesting a deeper, more pervasive influence on the fool's character and actions. Furthermore, the "bosom" (Hebrew: _chêyq_) functions as a **Metonymy** for the innermost being, the heart or core of a person, emphasizing that anger is not superficial but deeply ingrained and cherished in the foolish individual.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb from Ecclesiastes 7:9 resonates deeply with the broader biblical understanding of the human heart, the pervasive nature of sin, and the divine path to wisdom. The Bible consistently portrays uncontrolled anger as a destructive force, indicative of a lack of self-control and often leading directly to sin. It highlights the spiritual battle within each person, where fleshly impulses, including wrath, contend against the spirit. True wisdom, in biblical terms, is not merely intellectual acumen but a moral and spiritual orientation that fundamentally fears God and seeks to align with His character, which includes attributes like patience and long-suffering. The fool, by contrast, is someone who rejects divine wisdom and instruction, allowing their passions and volatile emotions to dictate their actions, thereby becoming enslaved to destructive forces like anger. This verse serves as a profound theological warning that habitually giving in to anger is a clear sign of a heart that has not been transformed by divine wisdom and remains susceptible to folly.

* [Proverbs 14:17](/proverbs/14-17 "Proverbs 14:17 - A Quick-Tempered Man Acts Foolishly")
* [Proverbs 29:11](/proverbs/29-11 "Proverbs 29:11 - A Fool Gives Full Vent to His Anger")
* [James 1:19-20](/james/1-19-20 "James 1:19-20 - Be Quick to Hear, Slow to Speak, Slow to Anger")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ecclesiastes 7:9 offers a timeless and profoundly practical challenge for personal reflection and spiritual growth in every generation. In a world often characterized by instant reactions, online vitriol, and heightened social tensions, the temptation to be "hasty in thy spirit to be angry" is ever-present and amplified. This verse calls us to cultivate a spirit of patience, discernment, and rigorous self-control, recognizing that our emotional responses are not merely spontaneous outbursts but profound revelations of the true condition of our hearts. Allowing anger to "rest" within us poisons our inner peace, damages our relationships, distorts our judgment, and ultimately leads us down paths of foolishness rather than wisdom. True strength, as taught throughout Scripture, lies not in the ability to express anger freely or impulsively, but in the spiritual discipline to master it, reflecting the character of Christ who was "slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love." This requires intentionality, humility, and a deep reliance on God's grace to transform our inner disposition.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific situations or relationships do I find myself most prone to being "hasty in my spirit to be angry"?**
* **How does my anger typically manifest (e.g., words, actions, internal resentment), and what are the immediate and long-term consequences for myself and those around me?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a more patient and controlled spirit, rather than allowing anger to "rest" and settle in my "bosom"?**
* **How does my typical response to frustrating or unjust situations reflect wisdom or folly, according to the principles of this verse?**
* **What spiritual disciplines (e.g., prayer, Scripture meditation, silence, seeking counsel) might help me to guard my heart against the destructive power of uncontrolled anger and foster a spirit of peace?**

### FAQ

**Is all anger sinful, according to the Bible?**

Answer: Not all anger is inherently sinful. The Bible distinguishes between righteous anger and sinful anger. Righteous anger, like that displayed by Jesus when He cleansed the temple ([John 2:13-17](/john/2-13-17 "John 2:13-17 - Jesus Cleanses the Temple")), is a controlled and purposeful response to injustice, sin, or blasphemy against God, driven by a zealous love for righteousness. It seeks restoration, justice, or the honor of God. Sinful anger, which Ecclesiastes 7:9 warns against, is characterized by its haste, impulsiveness, and often self-centered nature. It leads to bitterness, resentment, destructive words, and actions, and is frequently rooted in pride, selfishness, or a desire for personal vindication. Ephesians 4:26 advises, "[Be angry and do not sin](/ephesians/4-26 "Ephesians 4:26 - Be Angry and Do Not Sin")," implying that anger can be experienced without leading to sin, provided it is managed righteously, controlled by the Spirit, and not allowed to fester into malice or resentment.

**How can one prevent anger from "resting in the bosom" as described in this verse?**

Answer: Preventing anger from taking root and becoming a settled disposition requires intentional spiritual and emotional discipline. Firstly, cultivate **self-awareness** to identify personal triggers, the early signs of rising anger, and the underlying issues that fuel it. Secondly, practice **pause and reflection** before reacting, allowing time for wisdom and prayer to intervene, as suggested by [Proverbs 15:18, "A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention"](/proverbs/15-18 "Proverbs 15:18 - A Hot-Tempered Man Stirs Up Strife"). Thirdly, develop **empathy and understanding** for others, which often helps to diffuse anger by shifting perspective. Fourthly, engage in **prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit**, seeking His fruit of self-control, patience, and peace ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - Fruit of the Spirit")). Finally, practice **forgiveness** and actively release resentment, as harboring anger allows it to "rest" and poison the heart, leading to bitterness and spiritual decay.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 7:9, with its sobering warning against hasty anger and its association with the folly of the human heart, finds its profoundest fulfillment and clearest illumination in the person and perfect work of Jesus Christ. Jesus perfectly embodied the divine wisdom that Qoheleth sought, demonstrating complete mastery over His spirit and emotions. Unlike the fool in whom anger "resteth," Jesus's righteous indignation, as seen when He confronted the money-changers in the temple ([Matthew 21:12-13](/matthew/21-12-13 "Matthew 21:12-13 - Jesus Cleanses the Temple")), was never hasty, self-serving, or out of control. Instead, it was always perfectly aligned with divine justice, zeal for God's house, and love for His Father's glory. He was the ultimate example of one who was "slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love" ([Psalm 103:8](/psalm/103-8 "Psalm 103:8 - The Lord is Compassionate")), even in the face of immense provocation, betrayal, and injustice during His trial and crucifixion ([Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - He Was Oppressed and Afflicted")). Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Christ not only provides forgiveness for the sins that stem from foolish and uncontrolled anger but also empowers believers, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, to overcome the sinful nature that makes one "hasty in thy spirit." The Holy Spirit cultivates the fruit of self-control and patience ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - Fruit of the Spirit")), transforming hearts so that anger no longer finds a permanent resting place in the "bosom," but rather peace, wisdom, and the character of the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God") who perfectly fulfilled all righteousness.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

James 1:19

¶ Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

Proverbs 14:17

¶ [He that is] soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated.

Ephesians 4:26

Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

Ephesians 4:27

Neither give place to the devil.

Proverbs 16:32

¶ [He that is] slow to anger [is] better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

Proverbs 26:23

¶ Burning lips and a wicked heart [are like] a potsherd covered with silver dross.

Proverbs 26:26

[Whose] hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the [whole] congregation.