Proverbs 21:14
A gift given in secret soothes anger, and a bribe concealed in the cloak pacifies great wrath.
In context
11 When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; by paying attention to the wise they get knowledge. 12 The Righteous One takes note of the house of the wicked and brings the wicked to ruin.
13 Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered. 14 A gift given in secret soothes anger, and a bribe concealed in the cloak pacifies great wrath. 15 When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers. 16 Whoever strays from the path of prudence comes to rest in the company of the dead.
17 Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never 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.
- ESV English Standard Version
— Proverbs 21:14 in the ESV
A gift in secret averts anger, and a concealed bribe, strong wrath.