Bible Strands
Proverbs 26:17
Like one who grabs a dog by the ears is a passerby who meddles in a quarrel not his own.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — The wisdom author addresses a reader within a chapter contrasting foolish behavior, placing this warning between a description of a self-deceived slacker and a violent madman.
The words — מַחֲזִ֥יק (ma.cha.Zik) means [one who] takes hold, and רִ֥יב (riv) denotes a dispute.
The thread — The text’s warning against meddling in conflicts runs parallel to Proverbs 20:3, which honors those who resolve disputes rather than start them, and aligns with 2 Timothy 2:23’s command to reject speculation that breeds quarreling. It also echoes Proverbs 18:6, which notes that a fool’s words invite strife.
Why it lands — The text states that intervening in another’s quarrel is as reckless as grabbing a dog by the ears. It demands that a reader recognize the immediate danger of unnecessary interference and refrain from involvement in conflicts outside their responsibility.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.
Cross-references
- Proverbs 20:3 It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool will quarrel.
- 2 Timothy 2:23 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.