Do not make friends with an angry man
This phrase advises against forming close relationships with individuals who are prone to anger. In biblical context, anger is often associated with foolishness and sin (Proverbs 14:17, Ecclesiastes 7:9). The Hebrew culture valued self-control and wisdom, and anger was seen as a lack of both. The warning here is practical, as associating with angry individuals can lead to personal harm or influence one's own behavior negatively. The New Testament echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the fruit of the Spirit, which includes peace and patience (Galatians 5:22-23).

and do not associate with a hot-tempered man
The repetition of the warning underscores its importance. A hot-tempered person is one who is quick to anger and lacks self-control. Historically, such individuals could disrupt community harmony and lead others into conflict. The Bible frequently warns against wrath and encourages believers to seek peace (James 1:19-20). This advice is not only for personal well-being but also for maintaining a godly community. The call to avoid such associations is a call to pursue righteousness and wisdom, aligning with the teachings of Jesus, who exemplified patience and gentleness (Matthew 11:29).

1. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. His proverbs are intended to impart practical wisdom and guidance for living a godly life.

2. Angry Man
This refers to a person characterized by frequent anger or a quick temper. In the context of ancient Hebrew culture, such a person would be seen as lacking self-control and wisdom.

3. Associations
The relationships and friendships one forms. In the context of this proverb, it refers to the caution against forming close ties with those who are easily angered.Guard Your Associations
Be mindful of the company you keep. Associating with those who are quick to anger can lead to negative influences and consequences in your life.

Seek Peaceful Relationships
Pursue friendships and relationships that are characterized by peace, patience, and understanding, reflecting the fruit of the Spirit.

Cultivate Self-Control
As believers, we are called to exhibit self-control, a fruit of the Spirit. Avoiding relationships with hot-tempered individuals can help us maintain this virtue.

Influence and Character
Recognize the impact that others can have on your character and spiritual walk. Choose friends who encourage and uplift you in your faith journey.

Reflect Christ's Love
In all relationships, strive to reflect the love and patience of Christ, being a light to those around you.Verses 24, 25. - Another tetrastich. Make no friendship with an angry (irascible) man. Have no close intercourse with a man given to fits of passion. And with a furious man thou shalt not go. Avoid the society of such a one. The reason follows: Lest thou learn his ways; his manner of life and conduct. as Proverbs 1:15 (where see note). Anger breeds anger; impotence, impatience. St. Basil ('De Ira'), quoted by Corn. a Lapide, enjoins, "Take not your adversary as your teacher, and be not a mirror to reflect the angry man, showing his figure in thyself." And get a snare to thy soul; bring destruction on thyself. Anger unsubdued not only mars the kindliness of social life, but leads to all sorts of dangerous complications which may bring ruin and death in their train (comp. Proverbs 15:18). Vers 26, 27. - A warning against suretyship, often repeated. Be not thou one of them that strike hands; i.e. that become guarantees for others (see on Proverbs 17:18; 20:16; and comp. Proverbs 6:1; Proverbs 11:15). Sureties for debts. The writer explains what kind of guarantee he means. Why should he (the creditor) take away thy bed from under thee? Why should you ("from respect of person." Septuagint) act so weakly as to give a creditor power to seize your very bed as a pledge? The Law endeavoured to mitigate this penalty (Exodus 22:26, 27; Deuteronomy 24:12, 13). But doubtless its merciful provisions were evaded by the moneylenders (see Nehemiah 5:11; Ezekiel 18:12, "hath not restored the pledge").

Parallel Commentaries ...


Do not
אַל־ (’al-)
Adverb
Strong's 408: Not

make friends
תִּ֭תְרַע (tiṯ·ra‘)
Verb - Hitpael - Imperfect Jussive - second person masculine singular
Strong's 7462: To tend a, flock, pasture it, in, to graze, to rule, to associate with

with
אֶת־ (’eṯ-)
Preposition
Strong's 854: Nearness, near, with, by, at, among

an angry
אָ֑ף (’āp̄)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 639: The nose, nostril, the face, a person, ire

man,
בַּ֣עַל (ba·‘al)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1167: A master, a husband, owner

and do not
לֹ֣א (lō)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

associate
תָבֽוֹא׃ (ṯā·ḇō·w)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 935: To come in, come, go in, go

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

a hot-tempered
חֵ֝מוֹת (ḥê·mō·wṯ)
Noun - feminine plural
Strong's 2534: Heat, anger, poison

man,
אִ֥ישׁ (’îš)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 376: A man as an individual, a male person


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 22:24 Don't befriend a hot-tempered man and don't (Prov. Pro Pr)