One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty; one who rules his spirit, than he who takes a city.
SolomonRead
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Responding softly can diffuse anger, while harsh words escalate conflict.
This quote emphasizes the power of communication in resolving conflicts. It suggests that a calm and gentle response can help to calm down an angry person, whereas a harsh or aggressive reply may provoke further anger and escalate the situation. This highlights the importance of choosing our words carefully, particularly in emotionally charged interactions.
Themes
CommunicationAngerConflictResponseWords
In practice
Example use cases
During a heated discussion at a meeting, one could use this quote to remind colleagues to respond gently.
More from Solomon
All quotes βKnowledge is of more value than gold
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Jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame. [Therefore do not compare your lot with another's lest you see their advantages and lose the joy of what you already have.]
SolomonRead
Your own soul is nourished when you are kind; it is destroyed when you are cruel.
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The desire, which is accomplished, is sweet to the soul.
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The man who walks with wise men becomes wise himself.
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