Through patience a ruler can be persuaded
Patience is a recurring theme in biblical wisdom literature, emphasizing the virtue of waiting and enduring without complaint. In the context of ancient Israel, rulers held significant power, and approaching them required wisdom and tact. The idea that patience can persuade a ruler suggests the importance of timing and persistence in communication. This aligns with the broader biblical principle found in Ecclesiastes 7:8, which states that "the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit." Patience is also a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), indicating its divine value. Historically, figures like Esther demonstrated patience in approaching King Xerxes, ultimately leading to the salvation of her people (Esther 5-7).

and a gentle tongue can break a bone
The imagery of a gentle tongue breaking a bone highlights the power of soft and wise speech. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, speech was a powerful tool, and the ability to speak wisely was highly valued. This phrase suggests that gentle words can achieve what force cannot, echoing the sentiment found in Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." The metaphor of breaking a bone with gentleness underscores the paradoxical strength of meekness, a quality exemplified by Jesus Christ, who often used gentle words to convey profound truths and challenge the status quo (Matthew 11:29). This principle encourages believers to use their words carefully and with kindness, reflecting the character of Christ.

1. Ruler
Represents those in positions of authority or leadership. In the context of ancient Israel, this could refer to kings, judges, or other leaders.

2. Solomon
Traditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom.

3. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical backdrop of the Proverbs, where wisdom literature was highly valued.

4. The Wise Person
The implied audience of Proverbs, who seeks to live according to God's wisdom.

5. The Persuader
The individual who uses patience and gentle speech to influence others, as described in the verse.The Power of Patience
Patience is a virtue that can influence even those in authority. It requires trust in God's timing and wisdom.

Gentle Speech as a Tool for Influence
A gentle tongue, though seemingly weak, can have a profound impact. It can break down defenses and open doors for dialogue and understanding.

Wisdom in Communication
Effective communication in the Christian life involves both patience and gentleness. This reflects the character of Christ and can lead to positive outcomes.

The Role of Wisdom in Leadership
Leaders and those who influence others should cultivate patience and gentleness, as these qualities can lead to better decision-making and harmony.

Practical Application in Conflict Resolution
In conflicts, applying patience and gentle speech can lead to resolution and reconciliation, reflecting the peace of Christ.Verse 15. - By long forbearing; i.e. by patience, calmness that does not break out into passion whatever be the provocation, even, it is implied, in the face of a false and malicious accusation (comp. Proverbs 14:29). Is a prince persuaded. Katson is rather "an arbiter," or judge, than "a prince," and the proverb says that such an officer is led to take a favourable view of an accused person's case when he sees him calm and composed, ready to explain the matter without any undue heat or irritation, keeping steadily to the point, and not seduced by calumny or misrepresentation to forget himself and lose his temper. Such a bearing presupposes innocence and weighs favourably with the judge. The LXX. makes the gnome apply to monarchs alone, "In long suffering is prosperity unto kings." A soft tongue breaketh the bone. A soft answer (Proverbs 15:1), gentle, conciliating words, overcome opposition, and disarm the most determined enemy, and make tender in him that which was hardest and most uncompromising. "Gutta cavat lapidem, non vi, sed saepe cadendo." Similar proverbs are found elsewhere, though probably in a different sense. Thus in modern Greek, "The tongue has no bones, yet it breaks bones;" in Turkish, "The tongue has no bone, yet it crushes;" again, "One drop of honey," says the Turk, "catches more bees than a ton of vinegar."

Parallel Commentaries ...


Through patience
בְּאֹ֣רֶךְ (bə·’ō·reḵ)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 753: Length

a ruler
קָצִ֑ין (qā·ṣîn)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7101: A magistrate, other leader

can be persuaded,
יְפֻתֶּ֣ה (yə·p̄ut·teh)
Verb - Pual - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6601: To open, be, roomy, to be, simple, delude

and a gentle
רַ֝כָּ֗ה (rak·kāh)
Adjective - feminine singular
Strong's 7390: Tender, delicate, soft

tongue
וְלָשׁ֥וֹן (wə·lā·šō·wn)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - common singular
Strong's 3956: The tongue

can break
תִּשְׁבָּר־ (tiš·bār-)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 7665: To break, break in pieces

a bone.
גָּֽרֶם׃ (gā·rem)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 1634: A bone, self, very


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 25:15 By patience a ruler is persuaded (Prov. Pro Pr)