Definition: Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and wise verse from Ecclesiastes 7:9: “Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.” Here's a simple explanation: What it means: This verse is really about how we should think and react when we feel angry. It’s telling us that anger shouldn’t come from a place of foolishness or impulsiveness. Let’s unpack that a little further: “Be not hasty in thy spirit…” – This means to be slow to anger, to think before you act. It's about taking time and calming down your emotions. “…to be angry…” - This is the core of the verse. It’s saying that anger itself is a problem. “for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.” – This is the crucial part. “Resteth” means to settle down, to come to rest. "The bosom of fools" refers to a place where emotions are vulnerable and easily upset. So, anger settles in that spot – it becomes uncomfortable and destructive. In simpler terms: It’s saying that anger is often a bad thing because it comes from being too quick to judge or react without thinking. Why is this important? The verse encourages us to be patient, thoughtful, and calm – especially when we're feeling upset. It suggests that letting our anger control us can lead to mistakes and problems. Think of it like this: Imagine a storm brewing. You don’t act impulsively and start running around wildly – you take a deep breath, think things through, and wait for the storm to pass. Anger is similar – it's a powerful feeling, but we need to manage it before it takes over us. Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with examples? Discuss its relevance in modern life?