Proverbs 26:21

Like charcoal for embers and wood for fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife.

Study Bible

As charcoal to embers
The imagery of "charcoal to embers" evokes a scene of a fire being stoked and sustained. In the Hebrew context, charcoal was a common fuel source, known for its ability to burn steadily and maintain heat. This phrase suggests the idea of something that perpetuates or intensifies an existing condition. Just as charcoal keeps embers glowing, certain behaviors or attitudes can keep conflicts alive. The Hebrew word for charcoal, "pecham," is associated with a slow, enduring burn, symbolizing how a quarrelsome person can keep tensions simmering.

and wood to fire
"Wood to fire" continues the metaphor of fueling a blaze. Wood, in ancient times, was the primary source of fuel for fires, essential for warmth and cooking. The Hebrew word "ets" for wood implies something that is foundational and necessary for sustaining a fire. This phrase highlights how certain actions or words can escalate a situation, much like adding wood to a fire increases its intensity. The historical context of fire as a vital element in daily life underscores the destructive potential of a quarrelsome nature when it fuels discord.

so is a quarrelsome man
The "quarrelsome man" is central to the proverb's warning. The Hebrew term "madon" refers to strife or contention, and it characterizes someone who is argumentative or contentious. In the biblical context, such a person disrupts peace and harmony, much like how fuel disrupts the calm of a dormant fire. The conservative Christian perspective often views this as a caution against behaviors that lead to division within the community or family, emphasizing the value of peace and unity as taught in the New Testament.

for kindling strife
"Kindling strife" completes the metaphor, illustrating the outcome of a quarrelsome disposition. The Hebrew word "medan" for strife indicates a state of conflict or dispute. In the ancient world, kindling was the small, easily ignitable material used to start a fire, symbolizing how minor provocations can lead to larger conflicts. This phrase serves as a warning about the ease with which discord can be ignited and the responsibility individuals have to avoid being the source of such strife. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, this aligns with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, who advocate for reconciliation and peacemaking as hallmarks of a Christ-like life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Charcoal and Embers
These are materials used to sustain and intensify a fire. In the context of this proverb, they symbolize elements that fuel conflict.

2. Wood and Fire
Wood is a natural fuel for fire, representing how certain actions or words can ignite or escalate disputes.

3. Quarrelsome Man
This refers to an individual who is prone to arguments and disputes, serving as a catalyst for strife and discord.

4. Strife
A state of conflict or discord, often resulting from disagreements or contentious behavior.

5. Proverbs
A book in the Old Testament, attributed to King Solomon, known for its wisdom literature that provides practical guidance for righteous living.

Teaching Points

The Power of Words
Just as charcoal and wood fuel a fire, our words can either escalate or de-escalate conflicts. We must be mindful of how we speak to others.

Avoiding Quarrels
Being quarrelsome is not just a personality trait but a choice. We should strive to be peacemakers, reflecting Christ's love and unity.

Recognizing Catalysts for Strife
Identify behaviors or situations that tend to lead to conflict and work to address them proactively.

Pursuing Peace
As believers, we are called to pursue peace and harmony, seeking to resolve conflicts rather than ignite them.

Self-Reflection
Regularly examine your own heart and actions to ensure you are not contributing to strife in your relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can you identify when you or someone else is being a "quarrelsome man" as described in Proverbs 26:21?

2. What practical steps can you take to ensure your words and actions do not act as "charcoal to embers" in your relationships?

3. Reflect on a recent conflict you experienced. How might applying the wisdom from Proverbs 26:21 have changed the outcome?

4. How does the teaching in Proverbs 26:21 align with Jesus' call to be peacemakers in Matthew 5:9?

5. In what ways can you actively pursue peace in your community, workplace, or family, in light of the wisdom from Proverbs 26:21?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 3:5-6
This passage discusses the power of the tongue, likening it to a small spark that can set a great forest on fire, similar to how a quarrelsome person can ignite strife.

Galatians 5:19-21
Lists the acts of the flesh, including discord and dissensions, which are akin to the strife mentioned in Proverbs 26:21.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus calls peacemakers blessed, contrasting the behavior of a quarrelsome person who kindles strife.