'Stern' in the Bible
it will be a nation whose language you don't understand, whose stern appearance neither shows regard nor extends grace to anyone whether old or young.
Grievous punishment is for him who forsakes the way;He who hates reproof will die.
A rebellious man seeks only evil;Therefore a cruel messenger will be sent against him.
Who is like the wise man and who knows the interpretation of a matter? A man’s wisdom illumines him and causes his stern face to beam.