Proverbs 26:20 net — Where there is no wood, a fire goes out, and where there is no gossip, contention ceases.

NET Bible

"Where there is no wood, a fire goes out, and where there is no gossip, contention ceases."

— Proverbs 26:20, NET Bible

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Proverbs 26:20 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Proverbs 26 — Context

17

Like one who grabs a wild dog by the ears, so is the person passing by who becomes furious over a quarrel not his own.

18

Like a madman who shoots firebrands and deadly arrows,

19

so is a person who has deceived his neighbor, and said,“Was I not only joking?”

20

Where there is no wood, a fire goes out, and where there is no gossip, contention ceases.

21

Like charcoal is to burning coals, and wood to fire, so is a contentious person to kindle strife.

22

The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; and they have gone down into a person’s innermost being.

23

Like a coating of glaze over earthenware are fervent lips with an evil heart.

Proverbs 26:20 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Proverbs 26:20 say?
Proverbs 26:20 in the NET Bible reads: “Where there is no wood, a fire goes out, and where there is no gossip, contention ceases.”
Where is Proverbs 26:20 in the Bible?
Proverbs 26:20 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Proverbs, chapter 26, verse 20.
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 26:20.
What translation should I read Proverbs 26:20 in?
Proverbs 26:20 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 26:20?
Proverbs 26:20 reads (NET): “Where there is no wood, a fire goes out, and where there is no gossip, contention ceases.” 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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