14 Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.

Other Translations of Proverbs 17:14

King James Version

14 The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.

English Standard Version

14 The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out.

The Message

14 The start of a quarrel is like a leak in a dam, so stop it before it bursts.

New King James Version

14 The beginning of strife is like releasing water; Therefore stop contention before a quarrel starts.

New Living Translation

14 Starting a quarrel is like opening a floodgate, so stop before a dispute breaks out.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 17:14

Commentary on Proverbs 17:14

(Read Proverbs 17:14)

What danger there is in the beginning of strife! Resist its earliest display; and leave it off, if it were possible, before you begin.