Proverbs 26:20
“Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.”
Proverbs 26:20 in 7 translations
- KJVKing James Version
- Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.
- DRADouay–Rheims
- When the wood faileth, the fire shall go out: and when the talebearer is taken away, contentions shall cease.
- ASVAmerican Standard Version
- For lack of wood the fire goeth out; And where there is no whisperer, contention ceaseth.
- DARBYDarby
- Where no wood is, the fire goeth out; and where there is no talebearer, the contention ceaseth.
- WEBThe World English Bible
- For lack of wood a fire goes out. Without gossip, a quarrel dies down.
- YLTYoung's Literal Translation
- Without wood is fire going out, And without a tale-bearer, contention ceaseth,
- BPVBiblePics Version
- Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; similarly, where there is no gossip, strife ceases.
Context: Proverbs 26
18As a mad man who casteth firebrands, arrows, and death,
19So is the man that deceiveth his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?
20Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.
21As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
22The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.
About Proverbs 26: The Folly of Fools and the Wisdom of the Wise
Proverbs 26 is a collection of scattered wisdom sayings that address the topic of foolishness and wisdom. The chapter highlights the destructive nature of fools and the benefits of living wisely. The verses offer practical advice on dealing with fools and avoiding their foolishness.
Commentary
The chapter starts with a warning against the foolishness of people who are undeserving of honor, followed by a comparison of a lazy person to a door that turns on its hinges. The chapter also speaks on the trouble that ensues when fools are trusted to carry out responsibilities. It also warns against the harm of gossip and lying, which can lead to unnecessary conflicts and ruin relationships. Furthermore, the chapter encourages self-reflection, reminding us of the important difference between constructive criticism and unhelpful negative comments. Overall, Proverbs 26 teaches us to be wise and discerning in our daily interactions so that we can avoid the pitfalls of foolishness.