Proverbs 17:14
Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.
In context
11 Evildoers foster rebellion against God; the messenger of death will be sent against them. 12 Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool bent on folly.
13 Evil will never leave the house of one who pays back evil for good. 14 Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out. 15 Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent— the Lord detests them both. 16 Why should fools have money in hand to buy wisdom, when they are not able to understand it?
17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 17:14 in the KJV
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: Therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
- ESV English Standard Version
— Proverbs 17:14 in the ESV
The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out.