Proverbs on Diplomacy

(Prov. 15:1) A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

(Prov. 15:18) A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.

(Prov. 16:32) Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.

(Prov. 17:14) Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.

(Prov. 17:27) The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.

(Prov. 20:3) It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.

(Prov. 25:15) Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.

(Prov. 25:20) Like one who takes away a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar poured on a wound, is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.

(Prov. 26:4-5) Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. ⁵ Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.

(Prov. 26:17) Like one who grabs a stray dog by the ears is someone who rushes into a quarrel not their own.

(Prov. 26:18-19) Like a maniac shooting flaming arrows of death ¹⁹ is one who deceives their neighbor and says, “I was only joking!”

(Prov. 27:14) If anyone loudly blesses their neighbor early in the morning, it will be taken as a curse.