The wrath of a king [is as] messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.
Ver. 14. The wrath of a king is as messengers of death.] In the plural number, the better to set forth the danger of a king's displeasure. a "Thou shalt surely die, Ahimelech." 1Sa 22:16 "Adonijah shall be put to death this day." 1Ki 2:24 "Hang Haman on the tree that is fifty cubits high," &c. Hunc pugionem tibi mittit senatus, &c. Queen Elizabeth was so reserved, that all about her stood in a reverent awe of her very presence and aspect, but much more of her least frown or check; wherewith some of them, who thought they might best presume of her favour, have been so suddenly daunted and planet stricken that they could not lay down the grief thereof but in their grave. b One of these was Sir Christopher Hatton, Lord Chancellor, who died of a flux of urine and grief of mind. Neither could the queen, having once cast him down with a word, raise him up again, though she visited and comforted him. c
But a wise man will pacify it.] Either by some prudent speech or political device, as Abigail did David, and David Saul; as Benhadad's servants did Ahab, and as our King Edward I's servant did him. d For this king venturing his life, by spurring his horse into a deep river, only to be revenged on his servant that had incensed him by a saucy answer, was soon pacified when once he saw him on his bended knees, exposing his neck to the blow of the drawn sword, wherewith the king pursued him.
a Omne trahit secum Caesaris ira malum. - Ovid.
b Speed.
c Camden's Elisab., 406.
d Acts and Mon.