


Proverbs 29:8
Bible Versions
¶ Scornful men bring a city into a snare: but wise [men] turn away wrath.
Scoffers can inflame a city, but the wise can calm the fury.
Mockers inflame a city, but the wise turn away anger.
Scoffers set a city in a flame; But wise men turn away wrath.
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Proverbs 11:11
By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. -
Jeremiah 15:1
¶ Then said the LORD unto me, Though Moses and Samuel stood before me, [yet] my mind [could] not [be] toward this people: cast [them] out of my sight, and let them go forth. -
James 3:5
Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! -
James 3:6
And the tongue [is] a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. -
Proverbs 16:14
¶ The wrath of a king [is as] messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it. -
James 5:15
And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. -
James 5:18
And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.
Proverbs 29:8 offers a sharp contrast between two types of individuals and their profound impact on a community: the scornful and the wise.
Context
This verse is part of the collection of Solomonic proverbs, specifically within a section that often contrasts the righteous and the wicked, the wise and the foolish. The book of Proverbs frequently emphasizes the societal consequences of individual character. Here, the focus is on the influence of leaders or prominent figures within a "city" (which can be understood as any community or society) and how their character can either bring ruin or preserve peace. The wisdom presented is not just abstract knowledge but practical insight for living in community and exercising good judgment.
Key Themes
Practical Application
Proverbs 29:8 serves as a powerful reminder for all, especially those in positions of influence or leadership, about the impact of their words and attitudes. It encourages us to: