Proverbs 18:19 Meaning and Explanation
“A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →An offended family member is harder to reconcile than conquering a fortified city.
The Context of Proverbs 18:19
Offense in family relationships creates barriers harder than city walls.
What Does Proverbs 18:19 Mean?
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city—family relationships, once damaged by offense, become rigid and defended. The injured person erects emotional walls, becomes closed to reconciliation, and is harder to win back than an enemy defending a military stronghold.
Their contentions are like the bars of a castle—the conflict between family members becomes locked and fortified. The contentions become barriers as strong as iron gates, separating people and making reunion extremely difficult. Families are vulnerable to lasting damage.
Proverbs 18:19 in the Original Language
offended (פָּשַׁע, pasha), 'to transgress' or 'to offend' — to cross a line that separates the offender from the one harmed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 18:19
What does Proverbs 18:19 mean?
An offended family member is harder to reconcile than conquering a fortified city.
What is the context of Proverbs 18:19?
Offense in family relationships creates barriers harder than city walls.