Key Verse Spotlight
Proverbs 18:17 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: King James Version
" He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth "
Proverbs 18:17
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
15 The heart of the prudent getteth knowledge; and the ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.
16 A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.
17 He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth
18 The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.
19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.
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This shows that one story can seem true until another is heard. The first person who speaks will usually tell the story in a way that helps his own case. He will leave out what hurts him and say things in the best light possible, so his cause looks good, whether it really is or not.
That is why the other side must also be heard. The defendant should have a chance to answer, confront the witnesses, and question them. Then the falsehood or weakness in the first account may be exposed, and the matter may look very different. So we should remember that we have two ears, and hear both sides before we judge.
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From This Chapter
Proverbs 18:1
"Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh and intermeddleth with all wisdom."
Proverbs 18:2
"A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover"
Proverbs 18:3
"When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach."
Proverbs 18:4
"The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook."
Proverbs 18:5
"It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment."
Proverbs 18:6
"A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes."
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