Proverbs 20:3

3 It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife; but every fool will be quarreling.

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, strong drink a brawler; and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.
2 The dread wrath of a king is like the growling of a lion; he who provokes him to anger forfeits his life.
3 It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife; but every fool will be quarreling.
4 The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing.
5 The purpose in a man's mind is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.