What does Proverbs 15:1 mean?
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Quick answer
‘A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger’—our words can calm or inflame conflict.
What it means
The proverb contrasts two responses: gentleness defuses tension, while harshness fuels it.
Wisdom chooses calm, kind speech, especially when provoked, to make peace rather than escalate.
Common questions
How does a ‘gentle answer’ help?
It defuses anger and conflict; responding calmly rather than harshly tends to bring peace instead of escalation.
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Original BibleDawn explanation · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.