Proverbs 17:9
He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; But he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.
In context
6 Children's children are the crown of old men; And the glory of children are their fathers. 7 Excellent speech becometh not a fool: Much less do lying lips a prince. 8 A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: Whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.
9 He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; But he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends. 10 A reproof entereth more into a wise man Than an hundred stripes into a fool. 11 An evil man seeketh only rebellion: Therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him. 12 Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, Rather than a fool in his folly.
Compare in other versions
- NIV New International Version
— Proverbs 17:9 in the NIV
Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.
- ESV English Standard Version
— Proverbs 17:9 in the ESV
Whoever covers an offense seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates close friends.