Proverbs 26:21

[As] coals [are] to burning coals, and wood to fire; so [is] a contentious man to kindle strife.

As coals {H6352} are to burning coals {H1513}, and wood {H6086} to fire {H784}; so is a contentious {H4079}{H4066} man {H376} to kindle {H2787} strife {H7379}.

As coals are to embers and wood to fire is a quarrelsome person to kindling strife.

Like charcoal for embers and wood for fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife.

Ascoals are to hot embers, and wood to fire, So is a contentious man to inflame strife.

Commentary

Proverbs 26:21 delivers a sharp and insightful analogy, comparing the actions of a contentious person to elements that fuel a fire. Just as adding coals to burning coals or wood to a fire intensifies the blaze, so too does a quarrelsome individual actively ignite and escalate conflict and disputes.

Context

This verse is nestled within a section of the book of Proverbs (chapters 25-29) that comprises "the proverbs of Solomon, which the men of Hezekiah king of Judah copied out." This collection offers keen observations on human character, particularly highlighting the folly of certain behaviors and the wisdom in avoiding them. Proverbs 26 specifically focuses on the characteristics of a fool and a sluggard, and the destructive nature of gossip and contention. It builds upon the idea that where there is no talebearer, the strife ceases, emphasizing the active role of an individual in perpetuating conflict.

Key Themes

  • The Destructive Nature of Contention: The primary message is a vivid warning against the destructive power of contention. Strife, like fire, consumes and damages relationships, communities, and personal peace.
  • Active Role in Escalation: The verse highlights that a contentious person doesn't merely participate in arguments; they are the catalyst, the "kindler" of strife. They actively provoke, inflame, and escalate disagreements, much like adding fuel to a fire.
  • Wisdom vs. Folly: This proverb contrasts the wisdom of seeking peace with the folly of engaging in or promoting quarrels. A wise person avoids needless conflict, while a contentious individual thrives on it, often to their own detriment and the harm of others.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "contentious man" in Hebrew is 'ish midyan, which literally means "a man of strife" or "a man of contention." This describes someone whose very nature or habitual behavior is characterized by quarreling, disputing, and creating discord. To "kindle strife" comes from the Hebrew lacharish riv, which means "to make strife hot," "to inflame contention," or "to stir up a quarrel," perfectly capturing the image of stoking a fire.

Practical Application

This proverb offers timeless wisdom for navigating human relationships and fostering peaceful environments:

  • Self-Awareness: It prompts introspection: Am I a person who tends to "kindle strife"? Do I contribute to escalating arguments or do I seek to de-escalate them?
  • Discernment in Relationships: It encourages discernment in identifying individuals who consistently disrupt harmony. Recognizing a "contentious man" helps in setting healthy boundaries and avoiding unnecessary engagement.
  • Promoting Peace: The verse implicitly encourages believers to strive for peace whenever possible, aligning with other biblical calls to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). It teaches that true honor often lies in ceasing from strife.
  • Digital Interactions: In today's digital age, this proverb is particularly relevant. Online discussions can quickly turn into heated arguments, and a "contentious man" can easily "kindle strife" through provocative comments or relentless negativity, turning a civil conversation into a raging fire.

Proverbs 26:21 serves as a powerful reminder that while conflict is sometimes unavoidable, a wise person understands the destructive nature of contention and avoids being the one who fuels its flames.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Proverbs 29:22

    ¶ An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.

  • Proverbs 15:18

    ¶ A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but [he that is] slow to anger appeaseth strife.

  • Proverbs 10:12

    ¶ Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.

  • 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.

  • 1 Kings 12:20

    And it came to pass, when all Israel heard that Jeroboam was come again, that they sent and called him unto the congregation, and made him king over all Israel: there was none that followed the house of David, but the tribe of Judah only.

  • 1 Kings 12:2

    And it came to pass, when Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who was yet in Egypt, heard [of it], (for he was fled from the presence of king Solomon, and Jeroboam dwelt in Egypt;)

  • 1 Kings 12:3

    That they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying,
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