Proverbs 17:14 nasb — The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.

NASB

"The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out."

— Proverbs 17:14, NASB

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Proverbs 17:14 in Other Translations

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KJV
“The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.”
King James Version · Read this chapter in KJV

Proverbs 17 — Context

A rebellious man seeks only evil, So a cruel messenger will be sent against him.

Let a man meet a bear robbed of her cubs, Rather than a fool in his folly.

He who returns evil for good, Evil will not depart from his house.

The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.

He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous, Both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD.

Why is there a price in the hand of a fool to buy wisdom, When he has no sense?

A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.

Proverbs 17:14 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions

What does Proverbs 17:14 say?

Proverbs 17:14 in the NASB reads: “The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.”

Where is Proverbs 17:14 in the Bible?

Proverbs 17:14 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 17, verse 14.

Who wrote Proverbs?

Proverbs is traditionally attributed to Solomon (primarily), with sections by Agur and Lemuel. It was written c. 970–700 BC.

What is the book of Proverbs about?

Proverbs is practical wisdom for everyday life — short, vivid sayings on speech, work, money, friendship, sex, parenting, and the fear of the LORD. It teaches that wisdom is not mere cleverness but a way of walking with God in a complicated world.

What are the major themes of Proverbs?

Proverbs explores themes including Wisdom, Folly, Fear of the LORD, Discipline, Speech, Diligence. These themes shape the meaning and context of Proverbs 17:14.

What translation should I read Proverbs 17:14 in?

Proverbs 17:14 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.

How can I memorize Proverbs 17:14?

Proverbs 17:14 reads (NASB): “The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.

Proverbs 17:14 nasb — The beginning of strife is like letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.

Read in Another Translation

Proverbs 17:14 in Other Translations

Proverbs 17 — Context

Proverbs 17:14 — Frequently Asked Questions

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