2 A king's wrath strikes terror like the roar of a lion; those who anger him forfeit their lives.

Other Translations of Proverbs 20:2

King James Version

2 The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul.

English Standard Version

2 The terror of a king is like the growling of a lion; whoever provokes him to anger forfeits his life.

The Message

2 Quick-tempered leaders are like mad dogs - cross them and they bite your head off.

New King James Version

2 The wrath of a king is like the roaring of a lion; Whoever provokes him to anger sins against his own life.

New Living Translation

2 The king's fury is like a lion's roar; to rouse his anger is to risk your life.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 20:2

Commentary on Proverbs 20:2

(Read Proverbs 20:2)

How formidable kings are to those who provoke them! how much more foolish then is it to provoke the King of kings!