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

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

BBE - The start of fighting is like the letting out of water: so give up before it comes to blows.

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

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

Notes