Proverbs 20:2 Meaning and Explanation
“The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Provoking a powerful ruler to anger results in self-harm through consequences that flow back to the offender.
The Context of Proverbs 20:2
Proverbs teaches wisdom about navigating relationships with those who hold power.
What Does Proverbs 20:2 Mean?
A king's power mirrors nature's most fearsome predator—the roaring of a lion inspires caution and respect. This comparison establishes that some authorities command such force that defying them directly invites danger. The proverb teaches practical wisdom about recognizing power differentials.
To provoke the king's anger is to sin against one's own soul, meaning the person who angers him suffers the natural consequences of that action. The harm returns to the aggressor; wisdom consists of recognizing this self-inflicted damage before provoking it.
Proverbs 20:2 in the Original Language
'Sinneth' (חָטָא, chata) — to miss the mark or fall short of wise action; here it means the offender harms their own interests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 20:2
What does Proverbs 20:2 mean?
Provoking a powerful ruler to anger results in self-harm through consequences that flow back to the offender.
What is the context of Proverbs 20:2?
Proverbs teaches wisdom about navigating relationships with those who hold power.