Proverbs 26:17

Modern

Like one who grabs a dog by the ears is a passerby who meddles in a quarrel not his own.

Traditional

He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.

Literal

One grabbing hold on the ears of a dog passing by, is a passerby in a quarrel not unto him.

Latin

Sicut qui apprehendit auribus canem, sic qui transit impatiens et commiscetur rixæ alterius.

Hebrew

English

Like one who grabs a dog by the ears is a passerby who meddles in a quarrel not his own.

Wise people stay out of other people's arguments (compare Proverbs 26:21).

Theme notes and profiles

Proverbs 20:3
It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool will quarrel.
2 Timothy 2:23–24
But reject foolish and ignorant speculation, for you know that it breeds quarreling.
Proverbs 18:6
A fool’s lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating.
Luke 12:14
But Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed Me judge or executor between you?”
Proverbs 17:11
An evil man seeks only rebellion; a cruel messenger will be sent against him.