Proverbs 21:14
A gift in secret averts anger, and a concealed bribe, strong wrath.
In context
11 When a scoffer is punished, the simple becomes wise; when a wise man is instructed, he gains knowledge. 12 The Righteous One observes the house of the wicked; he throws the wicked down to ruin.
13 Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered. 14 A gift in secret averts anger, and a concealed bribe, strong wrath. 15 When justice is done, it is a joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers. 16 One who wanders from the way of good sense will rest in the assembly of the dead.
17 Whoever loves pleasure will be a poor man; he who loves wine and oil will not be rich.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 21:14 in the KJV
A gift in secret pacifieth anger: And a reward in the bosom strong wrath.
- NIV New International Version
— Proverbs 21:14 in the NIV
A gift given in secret soothes anger, and a bribe concealed in the cloak pacifies great wrath.