Proverbs 20:2
The terror of a king is like the growling of a lion; whoever provokes him to anger forfeits his life.
In context
1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise. 2 The terror of a king is like the growling of a lion; whoever provokes him to anger forfeits his life. 3 It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife, but every fool will be quarreling. 4 The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing.
5 The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 20:2 in the KJV
The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: Whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.
- NIV New International Version
— Proverbs 20:2 in the NIV
A king’s wrath strikes terror like the roar of a lion; those who anger him forfeit their lives.