14 The beginning of contention is [as] when one letteth out water; therefore leave off strife before it become vehement.

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.