King James Version

What Does Proverbs 19:11 Mean?

Proverbs 19:11 in the King James Version says “The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. discretion: or, prudence — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. discretion: or, prudence

Proverbs 19:11 · KJV


Context

9

A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish.

10

Delight is not seemly for a fool; much less for a servant to have rule over princes.

11

The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. discretion: or, prudence

12

The king's wrath is as the roaring of a lion; but his favour is as dew upon the grass.

13

A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Discretion defers anger, demonstrating self-control that is fruit of the Spirit. The glory in passing over transgression shows strength, not weakness—it requires greater power to forgive than retaliate. This reflects God's character in passing over sins (Romans 3:25).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Honor cultures prized vengeance and retaliation to maintain status. Biblical wisdom radically redefines glory as merciful forbearance, anticipating gospel ethics.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does deferring anger demonstrate strength rather than weakness in your relationships?
  2. What transgression do you need to pass over for God's glory?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
שֵׂ֣כֶל1 of 8

The discretion

H7922

intelligence; by implication, success

אָ֭דָם2 of 8

of a man

H120

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

הֶאֱרִ֣יךְ3 of 8

deferreth

H748

to be (causative, make) long (literally or figuratively)

אַפּ֑וֹ4 of 8

his anger

H639

properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

וְ֝תִפאַרְתּ֗וֹ5 of 8

and it is his glory

H8597

ornament (abstractly or concretely, literally or figuratively)

עֲבֹ֣ר6 of 8

to pass over

H5674

to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in

עַל7 of 8
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

פָּֽשַׁע׃8 of 8

a transgression

H6588

a revolt (national, moral or religious)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Proverbs 19:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Proverbs 19:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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