A man of quick temper acts foolishly, and a man of evil devices is hated.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Proverbs 14:17
What does Proverbs 14:17 mean?
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Proverbs 14:17
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While hasty anger is foolish, the verse highlights that those who plot wickedly, holding onto their anger to scheme revenge, are met with hatred. This isn't just about immediate rashness, but the more insidious danger of calculated malice.
A man of quick temper acts foolishly, and a man of evil devices is hated.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This proverb sits within a chapter of Proverbs contrasting folly and wisdom, and the speech and actions of foolish people versus wise ones. It contrasts two distinct types of destructive behavior: the impulsive, hot-headed outburst that leads to immediate foolishness, and the more calculated, hidden malice that breeds deep hatred. The surrounding verses continue to explore the consequences of foolish words and actions and the stability found in righteousness.
Ever felt like you've said or done something you instantly regret the moment the anger hit? This verse speaks directly to that.
The first part of this verse paints a vivid picture: 'A man of quick temper acts foolishly.' The original Hebrew hints at someone with 'short nostrils' – a physical description of anger flaring. This isn't just about being a little annoyed; it's about an immediate, uncontrolled outburst.
Hasty Actions, Regrettable Outcomes
When anger takes over, our thinking goes out the window. We react instantly, driven by raw emotion rather than wisdom. This leads to rash words, impulsive actions, and decisions we'd never make in a calm state. It's like a wildfire – quick to ignite and destructive in its path, leaving behind regret and damage.
While quick anger is foolish, this verse points to another character trait that draws even more severe consequences.
The second half of the verse presents a stark contrast: 'and a man of wicked devices is hated.' Unlike the man whose anger is a sudden flare-up, the 'man of wicked devices' is calculating. He might even suppress outward anger, but his mind is busy plotting and contriving evil plans.
Deliberate Malice vs. Impulsive Folly
This isn't about a moment of weakness; it's about deep-seated malice. The Hebrew word for 'devices' suggests intricate planning. This kind of person doesn't just react; they deliberately scheme against others. While rash anger is foolish and regrettable, deliberate wickedness earns a deeper, more deserved hatred, both from people and, crucially, from God, because it is insidious and dangerous.
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Understand the original words
qatsar-appayim · Hebrew Phrase (Adjective/Noun)
A state of being easily angered or quick to erupt in rage, often leading to impulsive behavior and a lack of self-control. It is contrasted with the patience and measured response associated with wisdom.
This passage lists 'acts of the flesh' which include 'fits of anger' and 'envy,' highlighting how these actions are contrary to God's kingdom and lead to negative consequences, much like the foolishness and hatred described in Proverbs.
Ephesians 4:26This verse directly addresses anger, saying 'Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,' which provides a practical guideline for managing the quick temper mentioned in Proverbs.
James 1:19-20James encourages believers to be 'quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger,' echoing the wisdom in Proverbs that quick anger leads to folly and emphasizing the importance of self-control.
Matthew 5:21-22Jesus deepens the understanding of anger, showing that even the internal disposition of anger towards a brother is sinful and worthy of judgment, connecting the 'wicked devices' and their hateful nature to the heart's intent.
Romans 12:19This verse advises believers 'Never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God,' offering a divine solution to the impulse for 'wicked devices' and revenge by trusting in God's justice.
clarkeProverbs 14:17: "He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated."
He that is soon angry - קצר אפים ketsar appayim, "short of nostrils:" because, when a man is angry, his nose is contracted, and drawn up towards his eyes. Dealeth foolishly - He has no time for reflection; he is hurried on by his passions, speaks like a fool, and acts like a madman.
pulpitProverbs 14:17: "He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated."
Verse 17. - He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly. The contrast to the irascible, passionate man is seen in the man slow to anger (ver. 29; Proverbs 15:18). Such a one, in his haste and passion, does things which in calmer moments he must see are foolish and ridiculous. Says Euripides ('Hyp.,' Fragm.) - Ἔξω γὰρ ὀργῆς πᾶς ἀνὴρ σοφώτερος "Wiser is every man from passion freed." Be not angry, says th…
While hasty anger is foolish, the verse highlights that those who plot wickedly, holding onto their anger to scheme revenge, are met with hatred. This isn't just about immediate rashness, but the more insidious danger of calculated malice.
This proverb sits within a chapter of Proverbs contrasting folly and wisdom, and the speech and actions of foolish people versus wise ones. It contrasts two distinct types of destructive behavior: the impulsive, hot-headed outburst that leads to immediate foolishness, and the more calculated, hidden malice that breeds deep hatred. The surrounding verses continue to explore the consequences of foolish words and actions and the stability found in righteousness.
This proverb sits within a chapter of Proverbs contrasting folly and wisdom, and the speech and actions of foolish people versus wise ones. It contrasts two distinct types of destructive behavior: the impulsive, hot-headed outburst that leads to immediate foolishness, and the more calculated, hidden malice that breeds deep hatred. The surrounding verses continue to explore the consequences of foolish words and actions and the stability found in righteousness.
"A man of quick temper acts foolishly, and a man of evil devices is hated." — While hasty anger is foolish, the verse highlights that those who plot wickedly, holding onto their anger to scheme revenge, are met with hatred. This isn't just about immediate rashness, but the mor…
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Last reviewed October 2026