The tribe of Ephraim was angry at Gideon and “accused him fiercely” (Judges 8:1) for not involving them in the battle against the Midianites, in which the Lord had given him such great victory. If Gideon responded in anger to their criticism, it would probably have increased the estrangement and conflict among the tribes of Israel. But he answered them, What have I done now in comparison with you? Is not the gleaning of the grapes of Ephraim better than the grape harvest of Abiezer? God has given into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb. What have I been able to do in comparison with you?
(Judges 8:2–3). This was a gentle answer and it made their anger subside.
On the other hand, a harsh word stirs up anger. When King Rehoboam was asked to lighten the yoke that his father had laid on the people, he answered, “Whereas my father laid on you a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke. My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions” (1 Kings 12:11). With this answer, the young king angered his people to such an extent that his kingdom was torn into two parts.
1 A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.