Through patience a ruler can be persuadedPatience 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 inProverbs 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.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
RulerRepresents those in positions of authority or leadership. In the context of ancient Israel, this could refer to kings, judges, or other leaders.
2.
SolomonTraditionally attributed as the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom.
3.
Ancient IsraelThe cultural and historical backdrop of the Proverbs, where wisdom literature was highly valued.
4.
The Wise PersonThe implied audience of Proverbs, who seeks to live according to God's wisdom.
5.
The PersuaderThe individual who uses patience and gentle speech to influence others, as described in the verse.
Teaching Points
The Power of PatiencePatience 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 InfluenceA gentle tongue, though seemingly weak, can have a profound impact. It can break down defenses and open doors for dialogue and understanding.
Wisdom in CommunicationEffective 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 LeadershipLeaders 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 ResolutionIn conflicts, applying patience and gentle speech can lead to resolution and reconciliation, reflecting the peace of Christ.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 25:15?
2.How can patience and gentle speech influence authority, as Proverbs 25:15 suggests?
3.What does Proverbs 25:15 teach about the power of gentle words?
4.How does Proverbs 25:15 connect with James 1:19 on listening and speaking?
5.In what situations can you apply Proverbs 25:15 in your daily life?
6.How can you cultivate patience to "break a bone" in difficult conversations?
7.How does Proverbs 25:15 illustrate the power of patience in resolving conflicts?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 25:15?
9.How does Proverbs 25:15 align with the overall message of the Book of Proverbs?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 25?
11.What are the main themes of the Bible's books?
12.What are the key teachings in the Book of James?
13.How can you speak truthfully with love?
14.What does the Bible say about quarrelsome women?What Does Proverbs 25:15 Mean
Through patience a ruler can be persuaded“Through patience a ruler can be persuaded” (Proverbs 25:15).
• Patience here pictures the steady, unwavering endurance that refuses to give up. Think of Moses repeatedly appearing before Pharaoh (Exodus 5–12), or Esther fasting three days before approaching king Xerxes (Esther 4:16).
• Scripture consistently links patience and influence: “A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger calms dispute” (Proverbs 15:18). When we restrain frustration, we create space for the Lord to soften another’s heart (James 1:19–20).
• Even the highest authority can be moved by patient perseverance. Jesus told the parable of the persistent widow whose steady appeals moved an unjust judge (Luke 18:1–5). If persistence can sway a hard-hearted magistrate, how much more can Spirit-led endurance move others within God’s plan.
• Practical takeaway—before confronting anyone in authority (employer, parent, civic leader), ask:
– Have I prayed steadily, trusting God’s timing?
– Am I prepared to wait without resentment (Psalm 37:7)?
– Will I remain respectful regardless of the outcome (Romans 13:1,1 Peter 2:17)?
and a gentle tongue can break a bone“and a gentle tongue can break a bone.”
• The “bone” represents the toughest resistance. A gentle response carries surprising power: “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1).
• Abigail’s soft-spoken appeal defused David’s anger and averted bloodshed (1 Samuel 25:23–33). Her words “broke the bone” of imminent violence.
• Gentleness is not weakness; it is strength under control, modeled perfectly by Christ: “Learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matthew 11:29).
• New-covenant believers are commanded, “Always be prepared to give a defense…yet with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). The Spirit-produced fruit of gentleness (Galatians 5:22–23) shatters hardened objections better than forceful speech ever could.
• Practical applications:
– Lower volume; choose calm, measured words.
– Highlight common ground before pressing a point (Acts 17:22–28).
– Trust God to penetrate defenses rather than forcing immediate agreement (2 Timothy 2:24–26).
summaryPatient perseverance and gentle speech are God-ordained tools for real change. Endurance gains a hearing; kindness penetrates the hardest opposition. By embracing both, we mirror Christ and watch Him move even the most unyielding hearts.
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 ...
Hebrew
Through patienceבְּאֹ֣רֶךְ(bə·’ō·reḵ)Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 753:Lengtha rulerקָצִ֑ין(qā·ṣîn)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7101:A magistrate, other leadercan be persuaded,יְפֻתֶּ֣ה(yə·p̄ut·teh)Verb - Pual - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6601:To open, be, roomy, to be, simple, deludeand a gentleרַ֝כָּ֗ה(rak·kāh)Adjective - feminine singular
Strong's 7390:Tender, delicate, softtongueוְלָשׁ֥וֹן(wə·lā·šō·wn)Conjunctive waw | Noun - common singular
Strong's 3956:The tonguecan breakתִּשְׁבָּר־(tiš·bār-)Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 7665:To break, break in piecesa 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) 
