Chapter Summary

Proverbs 15 opens with one of the most practically useful verses in the entire book: a gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. In any conflict, the person who controls the temperature of their response holds the most power.

Verse 3 adds a dimension that changes everything: the eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good. We are never unobserved. This is not a threat. It is a comfort for the righteous and a warning for those who think they act without witness.

The chapter contains some of Proverbs' most memorable contrasts about the heart: a merry heart makes a cheerful face, but heartbreak crushes the spirit. Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fatted calf with hatred.

All 33 Verses
Click any verse to reflect on its meaning
Related Bible Story
Abigail's Gentle Answer
1 Samuel 25:14 to 35 · Old Testament

Abigail's Gentle Answer

How one woman's wisdom turned away the wrath of a king
Connection to Proverbs 15

Abigail is the perfect embodiment of Proverbs 15:1. She gave a gentle answer to a man who was moments away from mass violence, and she turned away his wrath completely. Verse 23 says a word spoken in due season, how good it is. Abigail's word was perfectly timed and perfectly effective.