Arrogance leads only to strife
Arrogance, often synonymous with pride, is a recurring theme in the Bible, frequently associated with negative outcomes. In the context of ancient Israel, pride was seen as a direct challenge to God's authority and wisdom. The Hebrew word for arrogance here implies a sense of self-importance and an inflated view of one's abilities or status. This attitude often leads to conflict, as it fosters an environment where individuals are unwilling to listen or compromise. The story of King Saul (1 Samuel 15) serves as a biblical example, where his pride led to disobedience and ultimately his downfall. Arrogance disrupts relationships and communities, as it prioritizes self over others, contrary to the biblical call for humility (Philippians 2:3-4).

but wisdom is with the well-advised
Wisdom in the biblical sense is more than just knowledge; it is the application of understanding in a way that aligns with God's will. The phrase "well-advised" suggests a community or counsel of individuals who provide guidance. In ancient Israel, elders and wise men were often sought for advice, as seen in the story of Rehoboam (1 Kings 12), where the king's failure to heed wise counsel led to the division of the kingdom. Wisdom literature, such as Proverbs, emphasizes the importance of seeking and valuing the input of others, recognizing that no one person has all the answers. This aligns with the New Testament teaching in James 1:5, which encourages believers to ask God for wisdom. The ultimate embodiment of wisdom is found in Jesus Christ, who is described as the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24), and who exemplified a life of humility and obedience to the Father.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His insights into human behavior and godly living are captured in the book of Proverbs.

2. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical context of Proverbs is ancient Israel, where wisdom literature was a key component of teaching and moral instruction.

3. The Wise and the Foolish
Throughout Proverbs, these two archetypes are used to contrast those who live according to God's wisdom and those who reject it.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Arrogance
Arrogance is a root cause of conflict and strife. It blinds individuals to their own faults and prevents them from seeking reconciliation or understanding.

The Value of Humility
Humility opens the door to wisdom. By acknowledging our limitations and seeking advice, we position ourselves to grow in understanding and make better decisions.

Seeking Godly Counsel
Wisdom is often gained through the counsel of others. Surrounding ourselves with godly advisors can help us navigate life's challenges more effectively.

The Role of Wisdom in Relationships
Wisdom fosters peace and harmony in relationships. By valuing others' perspectives and being open to correction, we can build stronger, more respectful connections.

Practical Steps to Cultivate Wisdom
Regularly engage with Scripture, pray for discernment, and actively seek feedback from trusted mentors to cultivate a heart of wisdom.

Bible Study Questions and Answers

1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 13:10?2. How does pride lead to conflict according to Proverbs 13:10?3. What role does humility play in receiving wisdom from Proverbs 13:10?4. How can we apply Proverbs 13:10 to resolve conflicts in our lives?5. What other scriptures emphasize the dangers of pride and the value of wisdom?6. How can seeking counsel help prevent strife, as suggested in Proverbs 13:10?7. How does Proverbs 13:10 define the relationship between pride and conflict?8. What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 13:10?9. How does Proverbs 13:10 align with archaeological findings from the biblical era?10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 13?11. What does 'Fear of the Lord' mean?12. What does the Bible teach about hate?13. What is the Bible's view on estrangement?14. What does "Love is Not Proud" mean?

What Does Proverbs 13:10 Mean

Arrogance leads only to strife

“Arrogance leads only to strife” (Proverbs 13:10a). The verse opens with a warning that pride isn’t a harmless personality quirk; it inevitably breeds conflict.

• Proverbs 28:25 points out that “A greedy man stirs up strife,” highlighting that self-seeking attitudes always ripple outward.

• James 4:1–2 asks, “What causes conflicts and quarrels among you? … You desire and do not have,” tying inward pride to outward fights.

• Proverbs 11:2 echoes the theme: “When pride comes, disgrace follows.” The pattern is consistent—elevate self, and discord follows close behind.

Think of everyday settings—marriage, church committees, the workplace. Whenever someone insists on being right, tension rises. Pride crowds out listening, patience, and gentleness, leaving little room for unity (Philippians 2:3).

But wisdom is with the well-advised

The second clause offers the remedy: “but wisdom is with the well-advised” (Proverbs 13:10b). Wisdom isn’t a solo achievement; it flourishes in humble hearts that invite counsel.

• Proverbs 11:14 teaches, “For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance,” showing the protective power of shared insight.

• Proverbs 15:22 adds, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed,” reminding us that godly input turns potential strife into success.

• Acts 18:24–26 illustrates this principle in Apollos: gifted yet teachable, he accepted instruction from Priscilla and Aquila and became even more effective.

Practical takeaways:

– Seek mature believers who will speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).

– Weigh advice against Scripture, not ego.

– Remember that refusing counsel is itself an act of pride, the very seed of strife this proverb warns about.

summary

Pride isolates and ignites conflict; humble teachability invites counsel and yields peace-giving wisdom. Recognizing our limits and welcoming godly voices turns potential battles into opportunities for growth, reflecting Christ’s own gentle, obedient spirit (Matthew 11:29).

(10) Only by pride cometh contention.--Rather, by pride cometh nothing but contention. A man who is too proud to receive counsel is sure to fall out with others; they are wise who suffer themselves to be advised.

Verse 10. - Only by pride cometh contention. Some render "surely" (raq) for only, as in Genesis 20:11. Others rightly translate, "By pride cometh only, nothing but, contention." Vulgate, "Between the proud disputes are always rife." One who is haughty and overbearing, or who is too conceited to receive advice, is sure to quarrel with others. Septuagint, "An evil man with insult doeth evil." With the well advised is wisdom; those who are not, like the proud, above taking advice and following it, are wise (Proverbs 11:2; Proverbs 12:15). As the Vulgate puts it, "They who do all things with counsel are directed by wisdom." The LXX., reading differently, has, "They who know themselves are wise," which implies that the wise know their own weakness and imperfection, and hearken humbly to good counsel Parallel Commentaries ...

Hebrew

Arrogance
בְּ֭זָדוֹן (bə·zā·ḏō·wn)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2087: Insolence, presumptuousness

leads
יִתֵּ֣ן (yit·tên)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 5414: To give, put, set

only
רַק־ (raq-)
Adverb
Strong's 7535: But, even, except, howbeit howsoever, at the least, nevertheless

to strife,
מַצָּ֑ה (maṣ·ṣāh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 4683: Strife, contention

but wisdom
חָכְמָֽה׃ (ḥāḵ·māh)
Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 2451: Wisdom

is with
וְאֶת־ (wə·’eṯ-)
Conjunctive waw | Preposition
Strong's 854: Nearness, near, with, by, at, among

the well-advised.
נ֖וֹעָצִ֣ים (nō·w·‘ā·ṣîm)
Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine plural
Strong's 3289: To advise, to deliberate, resolve

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Proverbs 13:10 Catholic BibleOT Poetry: Proverbs 13:10 Pride only breeds quarrels but with ones (Prov. Pro Pr)