Question 1

What does Proverbs 17:14 mean?

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 17:14 warns that starting a quarrel is like opening a floodgate: once conflict begins, it is hard to control and can quickly get out of hand. The proverb urges people to stop arguments before they escalate, comparing the start of strife to letting water escape, which is difficult to contain once it starts flowing. In the book of Proverbs, a father is often pictured giving practical wisdom to his son or to anyone seeking to live wisely. Here, the advice is about human relationships—specifically, how easily small disagreements can become much bigger if not handled early. The verse uses a vivid image from everyday life in ancient times, where a small breach in a dam or wall could lead to disaster if not stopped immediately.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 17:14

Accepted Answer

The word for "strife" (מָדוֹן, madon, H4066) refers to a quarrel or dispute, highlighting that the proverb is about personal conflicts, not just physical fights. The phrase "letteth out water" uses the word פָרַץ (parats, H6362), meaning to break out or burst forth, which gives the sense of something suddenly escaping control, like water breaking through a barrier. "Leave off" (נָטַשׁ, natas, H5203) means to abandon or let go, emphasizing that the wise action is to stop or walk away from contention before it gets worse. "Contention" (רִיב, riv, H7379) often means a legal dispute or argument, suggesting that the proverb is not just about shouting matches but any kind of ongoing conflict.

Question 3

Why Proverbs 17:14 matters

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 17:14 clarifies that conflict is not always dramatic at first; even a small disagreement can become destructive if not checked early. The verse highlights the importance of self-control and foresight in relationships, showing that wisdom often means knowing when to step back. In the context of Proverbs, this advice fits with the broader theme of promoting peace and avoiding unnecessary trouble, reminding readers that prevention is often easier than fixing a problem after it grows.

Proverbs 17:14 (KJV)