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Proverbs 17:14
The start of fighting is like the letting out of water: so give up before it comes to blows.
Proverbs 17:14 · Bible in Basic English
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Proverbs 17:14 in other translations
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
To start a quarrel is to release a flood; so abandon the dispute before it breaks out.
The beginning of strife is like breaching a dam, therefore stop contention before quarreling breaks out.
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In context
11 An uncontrolled man is only looking for trouble, so a cruel servant will be sent against him.
12 It is better to come face to face with a bear whose young ones have been taken away than with a foolish man acting foolishly.
13 If anyone gives back evil for good, evil will never go away from his house.
14 The start of fighting is like the letting out of water: so give up before it comes to blows.
15 He who gives a decision for the evil-doer and he who gives a decision against the upright, are equally disgusting to the Lord.
16 How will money in the hand of the foolish get him wisdom, seeing that he has no sense?
17 A friend is loving at all times, and becomes a brother in times of trouble.
Read Proverbs 17 in the app The whole chapter