Proverbs 18:17 In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines.

◄ Proverbs 18:17 ►

Parallel Verses

New International Version
In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right, until someone comes forward and cross-examines.

English Standard Version
The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him.

New American Standard Bible
The first to plead his case seems right, Until another comes and examines him.

King James Bible
He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.

International Standard Version
The first to put forth his case seems right, until someone else steps forward and cross-examines him.

American Standard Version
He that pleadeth his cause first'seemeth just; But his neighbor cometh and searcheth him out.

Douay-Rheims Bible
The just is first accuser of himself: his friend cometh, and shall search him.

Darby Bible Translation
He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.

Young's Literal Translation
Righteous is the first in his own cause, His neighbour cometh and hath searched him.

Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

18:17. It is well to listen to our enemies, that we may form a better judgment of ourselves. 18. It was customary sometimes to refer matters to God, by casting lots, with solemn prayer. The profaning the lot, by using it in matters of diversion, or coveting what belongs to others, forms an objection to this now.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown

17. One-sided statements are not reliable.

searcheth—thoroughly (Pr 17:9, 19).