The proverb is also used as a metaphorical phrase to sow the wind (and reap the whirlwind). With allusion to hosea viii. 7 (AV) They have sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind.
They who sowed a winde, shall reap a whirlewind, but they that sowed in iustice shall reape mercie.
[1583 J. Prime Fruitful & Brief Discourse ii. 203]
Ask the Rev. Cream Cheese to‥preach from this text: ‘They that sow the wind shall reap the whirlwind.’
[1853 G. W. Curtis in Putnam's Magazine Apr. 386]
Well—what's passed is passed. Folks that plant the wind reap the whirlwind!
[1923 O. Davis Icebound iii. 98]
I know that he who sows the wind shall reap the whirlwind. I dislodge a clod of earth, and start a landslide.
[1981 J. Stubbs Ironmaster xvii.]
Related to: action and consequence
Bibliography of major proverb collections and works cited from modern editions is available here.
