Composure Allays Great Offense

It is interesting to note the different translations of this verse in the well accepted formal equivalency translations which I regularly use and consult. In the King James version it says, “If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for yielding pacifieth great offenses.” In our own New King James the last phrase reads, “For conciliation pacifies great offenses.” And in the New American Standard Version it reads, “Because composure allays great offense.” It is obvious that you and I have something very important to learn from this verse. The lessons that we need to learn are in relation to our attitude and actions in relation to those in political authority over us. First of all – It may be the case that something that you do or say may provoke a ruler so that his spirit rises against you. Secondly – Whether what you have done or said has been foolish or righteous, you should not abandon your position. And third – If the ruler's spirit rises against you your yielding or showing composure will allay great offenses.