Proverbs 17:14

The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therfore leaue off contention, before it be medled with.
- King James Version (1611) - View 1611 Bible Scan

The beginning of strife is {like} letting out water, So abandon the quarrel before it breaks out.
- New American Standard Version (1995)

The beginning of strife is `as' when one letteth out water: Therefore leave off contention, before there is quarrelling.
- American Standard Version (1901)

The start of fighting is like the letting out of water: so give up before it comes to blows.
- Basic English Bible

To start a quarrel is to release a flood; so abandon the dispute before it breaks out.
- Berean Standard Bible Bible

The beginning of contention is [as] when one letteth out water; therefore leave off strife before it become vehement.
- Darby Bible

The beginning of quarrels is as when one letteth out water: before he suffereth reproach he forsaketh judgment.
- Douay-Rheims Bible

The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before there be quarrelling.
- English Revised Version

The beginning of strife is like breaching a dam, therefore stop contention before quarreling breaks out.
- World English Bible

Wesley's Notes for Proverbs 17:14

17:14 Letteth out - By cutting the bank of a river. Leave off - Avoid the occasions, and prevent the beginning of contention.