Book of Proverbs - Chapter 20 - Verse 2

The verse "The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul" emphasizes the power and authority wielded by a king. In ancient times, kings held absolute power and their anger was to be greatly feared. Just as the roar of a lion strikes fear into those who hear it, the wrath of a king can have devastating consequences. The verse serves as a warning against provoking a king to anger, as it could result in severe punishment or even death. By disrespecting or disobeying a king, one would be sinning against their own soul, putting their own well-being and safety at risk. This verse highlights the importance of showing reverence and obedience to those in positions of authority, as going against them could lead to dire consequences. It serves as a reminder to always act wisely and carefully in the presence of powerful individuals, to avoid facing the consequences of provoking their anger.

When interpreting the verse "The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul," it is important to consider the theological implications of the fear and respect due to a king or ruler. In biblical times, kings were seen as representatives of God's authority on earth and were to be honored and obeyed. The comparison of a king's fear to the roaring of a lion highlights the power and potential danger that comes with defying or angering a ruler. The word "fear" in this context goes beyond simple reverence and includes the idea of being cautious and respectful in all interactions with the king. Furthermore, the verse warns that provoking a king to anger is not only a political offense but also a spiritual one, as it is equated with sinning against one's own soul. This serves as a reminder of the importance of humility, obedience, and submission to authority in both the earthly and spiritual realms.