Berean Study Bible
To start a quarrel is to release a flood; so abandon the dispute before it breaks out.

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

American Standard Version
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: Therefore leave off contention, before there is quarrelling.

Darby Bible Translation
The beginning of contention is [as] when one letteth out water; therefore leave off strife before it become vehement.

Douay-Rheims Bible
The beginning of quarrels is as when one letteth out water: before he suffereth reproach he forsaketh judgment.

English Revised Version
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before there be quarrelling.

Young's Literal Translation
The beginning of contention is a letting out of waters, And before it is meddled with leave the strife.