This verse seems sort of odd and out of place doesn’t it? Pacifying anger through gift giving just doesn’t seem like instruction we would be receiving from Solomon’s book of collective wisdom. However, the goal behind the gift giving is a theme that the scriptures address again and again; reconciliation. The Bible is very clear that all Christians are to be resolving conflict and working to restore broken relationships in their lives. In Romans 12:18, Paul instructs the Romans: “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” I do not think I have ever put gift giving in the realm of Romans 12:18, but it does fall under the realm of our possibilities. If we could jump start the restoration process by offering someone a gift, why wouldn’t we? By this, Solomon is not advocating the practice of using gifts or money as a superficial band aid to try and cover up and ignore serious offenses. He is rather speaking of creating a climate where conversation and reconciliation can begin to happen. Anger and wrath can be impenetrable walls in the lives of those who harbor bitterness in their hearts. If we can pacify an individual’s anger, we are ready to begin the hard but necessary work of restoring the relationship.