Proverbs 20:3

3 It is honorable to back off from a fight, but fools jump right in.

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 a carouser. Those it leads astray won't become wise.

2 A king is as terrifying as a lion's growl. Those who anger him may lose their life.

3 It is honorable to back off from a fight, but fools jump right in.

4 The lazy don't plow during winter; at harvest they look but find nothing.

5 Advice comes from the deep waters of the heart; those with understanding can draw it out.