Proverbs 18:17 asv — He that pleadeth his cause first seemeth just; But his neighbor cometh and searcheth him out.

American Standard Version

"He that pleadeth his cause first seemeth just; But his neighbor cometh and searcheth him out. "

— Proverbs 18:17, American Standard Version

Read in Another Translation

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Proverbs 18:17 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 18 — Context

14

The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; But a broken spirit who can bear?

15

The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; And the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.

16

A man’s gift maketh room for him, And bringeth him before great men.

17

He that pleadeth his cause first seemeth just; But his neighbor cometh and searcheth him out.

18

The lot causeth contentions to cease, And parteth between the mighty.

19

A brother offendedis harder to be won than a strong city; Andsuchcontentions are like the bars of a castle.

20

A man’s belly shall be filled with the fruit of his mouth; With the increase of his lips shall he be satisfied.

Proverbs 18:17 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 18:17 say?
Proverbs 18:17 in the American Standard Version reads: “He that pleadeth his cause first seemeth just; But his neighbor cometh and searcheth him out. ”
Where is Proverbs 18:17 in the Bible?
Proverbs 18:17 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 18, verse 17.
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 18:17.
What translation should I read Proverbs 18:17 in?
Proverbs 18:17 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 18:17?
Proverbs 18:17 reads (ASV): “He that pleadeth his cause first seemeth just; But his neighbor cometh and searcheth him 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.
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