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

¹⁴ The beginning of contention 'is' a letting out of waters, And before it is meddled with leave the strife.

¹⁴ The beginning of strife is like breaching a dam,
therefore stop contention before quarreling breaks out.

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

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