Proverbs 17:14

The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.

The beginning of strife is like breaching a dam, Therefore stop contention before quarreling breaks out.

The beginning of strife is `as' when one letteth out water: Therefore leave off contention, before there is quarrelling.

The beginning of contention `is' a letting out of waters, And before it is meddled with leave the strife.

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