Proverbs 20:3

3 It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool can get himself into a quarrel.^[a]

Proverbs 20:3 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 20:3

[It is] an honour for a man to cease from strife
As Abraham did, ( Genesis 13:7 Genesis 13:8 ) ; when engaged in a quarrel with his neighbour, or in a lawsuit, or in a religious controversy, especially when he finds he is in the wrong; and indeed, if he is in the right, when he perceives it is like to issue in no good, and is only about words to no profit, it is an honour to drop it; but every fool will be meddling;
with things he has no concern in, or is not equal to; yet will carry on the debate, though it is to his disgrace; see ( Proverbs 17:14 ) .

Proverbs 20:3 In-Context

1 Wine is a mocker, beer is a brawler, and whoever staggers because of them is not wise.

2 A king's terrible wrath is like the roaring of a lion; anyone who provokes him endangers himself.

3 It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool can get himself into a quarrel.

4 The slacker does not plow during planting season; at harvest time he looks, and there is nothing.

5 Counsel in a man's heart is deep water; but a man of understanding draws it up.

Footnotes

• [a]. Pr 15:18; 18:6; 22:10