Proverbs 26:21

Like charcoal for embers and wood for fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife.

Study Bible

Like charcoal for embers
Charcoal, a substance that burns slowly and steadily, is used here as a metaphor for something that sustains a fire. In biblical times, charcoal was a common fuel source, known for its ability to maintain heat over a long period. This imagery suggests a continuous and deliberate action, much like how a quarrelsome person perpetuates conflict. The use of charcoal implies a calculated and intentional effort to keep discord alive, rather than allowing it to die out naturally.

and wood for fire
Wood, when added to a fire, intensifies the flames and increases the heat. This phrase highlights the role of external elements in escalating a situation. In the context of relationships and community, introducing a quarrelsome person is akin to adding wood to a fire, causing disputes to flare up and become more intense. This imagery is consistent with other biblical teachings that warn against the dangers of stirring up anger and conflict, such as in James 3:5-6, which compares the tongue to a small spark that can set a great forest ablaze.

so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife
A quarrelsome man is likened to the elements that fuel a fire, emphasizing his role in initiating and sustaining conflict. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, community harmony was vital, and a person who incited strife was seen as a threat to social stability. This proverb serves as a warning against associating with individuals who are prone to argument and discord. The New Testament echoes this sentiment in passages like Titus 3:10, which advises believers to avoid divisive people after warning them. The imagery of kindling strife suggests that just as a fire needs fuel to continue burning, conflict requires a provocateur to persist.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Charcoal and Embers
These are materials used to sustain and intensify a fire. In the context of this proverb, they symbolize elements that fuel conflict.

2. Wood and Fire
Wood is a natural fuel for fire, representing how certain actions or words can ignite or escalate disputes.

3. Quarrelsome Man
This refers to an individual who is prone to arguments and disputes, serving as a catalyst for strife and discord.

4. Strife
A state of conflict or discord, often resulting from disagreements or contentious behavior.

5. Proverbs
A book in the Old Testament, attributed to King Solomon, known for its wisdom literature that provides practical guidance for righteous living.

Teaching Points

The Power of Words
Just as charcoal and wood fuel a fire, our words can either escalate or de-escalate conflicts. We must be mindful of how we speak to others.

Avoiding Quarrels
Being quarrelsome is not just a personality trait but a choice. We should strive to be peacemakers, reflecting Christ's love and unity.

Recognizing Catalysts for Strife
Identify behaviors or situations that tend to lead to conflict and work to address them proactively.

Pursuing Peace
As believers, we are called to pursue peace and harmony, seeking to resolve conflicts rather than ignite them.

Self-Reflection
Regularly examine your own heart and actions to ensure you are not contributing to strife in your relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can you identify when you or someone else is being a "quarrelsome man" as described in Proverbs 26:21?

2. What practical steps can you take to ensure your words and actions do not act as "charcoal to embers" in your relationships?

3. Reflect on a recent conflict you experienced. How might applying the wisdom from Proverbs 26:21 have changed the outcome?

4. How does the teaching in Proverbs 26:21 align with Jesus' call to be peacemakers in Matthew 5:9?

5. In what ways can you actively pursue peace in your community, workplace, or family, in light of the wisdom from Proverbs 26:21?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 3:5-6
This passage discusses the power of the tongue, likening it to a small spark that can set a great forest on fire, similar to how a quarrelsome person can ignite strife.

Galatians 5:19-21
Lists the acts of the flesh, including discord and dissensions, which are akin to the strife mentioned in Proverbs 26:21.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus calls peacemakers blessed, contrasting the behavior of a quarrelsome person who kindles strife.