King James Version
Proverbs 17:14 in the King James Version says “The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 17 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.”
Proverbs 17:14 · KJV
Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than a fool in his folly.
Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.
He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.
Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing he hath no heart to it?
KJV Study — Public Domain
“is as when one letteth out”
H6362to cleave or burst through, i.e., (causatively) to emit, whether literal or figurative (gape)
“The beginning”
H7225the first, in place, time, order or rank (specifically, a firstfruit)
“before”
H6440the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
“therefore leave off”
H5203properly, to pound, i.e., smite; by implication (as if beating out, and thus expanding) to disperse; also, to thrust off, down, out or upon (inclusive
This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Proverbs 17:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Proverbs 17:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge