Proverbs 18:17 kjv

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

Proverbs 18:17 nkjv

The first one to plead his cause seems right, Until his neighbor comes and examines him.

Proverbs 18:17 niv

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

Proverbs 18:17 esv

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

Proverbs 18:17 nlt

The first to speak in court sounds right ?
until the cross-examination begins.

Proverbs 18 verses

Proverbs 18 17 Meaning

Proverbs 18:17 highlights a foundational principle of discernment and justice. It states that an individual presenting their case first can be highly persuasive, their narrative appearing entirely true or just, until another perspective or thorough examination sheds new light on the matter. This verse underscores the necessity of hearing all sides of a dispute or situation before forming a complete and accurate judgment. It teaches against hasty conclusions, emphasizing that initial impressions or a single account, no matter how convincing, are often incomplete and require verification through further investigation and opposing views.

Proverbs 18 17 Context

Proverbs 18:17 fits within a chapter that frequently addresses themes of speech, conflict, and wisdom in dealing with others. It precedes verses that speak of breaking up quarrels (v. 18), the difficulty of a brother offended (v. 19), and the power of the tongue (v. 20-21). Historically, ancient Israelite society handled legal and interpersonal disputes through community leaders, often elders, who gathered at the city gate. In this setting, parties involved would present their cases. The proverb speaks to the inherent bias in such presentations and warns against the natural inclination to accept the first story without diligent cross-examination. It implicitly warns against the rush to judgment prevalent in all societies.

Proverbs 18 17 Word analysis

• The first (רִאשׁוֹן - rishon): Implies not only the one who presents their argument earliest but also the primary or initial impression received. This person naturally gains an advantage due to the human tendency to quickly form opinions.

• to plead his case (בְּרִבּוֹ - b'riv-bō): From the root רִיב (riv), meaning "to contend," "dispute," or "to plead." It refers to presenting one's side in a controversy or legal dispute. This individual is actively articulating their position, often with conviction and selective details.

• seems right (צַדִּיק - tzaddik): This term, often translated "righteous" or "just," indicates that the initial account appears just, plausible, or without fault from a limited perspective. It highlights the persuasive power of a well-told, unchallenged narrative, even if it's incomplete or self-serving. It is the superficial perception of truth, not necessarily objective truth.

• until another (אֵרוֹ - aherō): Refers to a second party, an opposing litigant, witness, or even an interrogator. This individual introduces a contrasting perspective or challenges the initial narrative.

• comes and examines him (וּבָא חֲקָרוֹ - u'va ḥaqarō): This is crucial. Baa means "comes," signifying active engagement. Ḥaqarō (from חָקַר - ḥaqar) means "to search," "to investigate," "to examine deeply," or "to cross-examine." It implies a thorough, scrutinizing inquiry, going beyond superficial appearance to uncover facts, inconsistencies, or hidden motives. This active investigation is the catalyst for revealing the fuller truth.

• Words-group analysis:

  • "The first to plead his case seems right": This phrase captures the psychological advantage of presenting one's narrative unchallenged. It highlights the bias in perception—how a single, unchecked account can create a powerful, often misleading, impression of validity or righteousness.
  • "until another comes and examines him": This stark contrast introduces the remedy. It underscores the vital necessity of counter-testimony, critical inquiry, and thorough investigation. Only through this deliberate process can the initial, potentially skewed, perception be corrected and a more balanced truth emerge. It’s the antithesis of snap judgment.

Proverbs 18 17 Bonus section

This proverb illustrates a key aspect of "hearing" in the wisdom tradition: it's not merely passive reception, but active, discerning listening that probes beneath the surface. It serves as a direct antidote to gullibility and thoughtless judgment. The practice described in the proverb parallels the role of a righteous judge, who, according to biblical law, was to make impartial decisions based on multiple witnesses and thorough examination, not just one side. The integrity of the judicial process, and indeed of personal wisdom, rests on the second part of this proverb.

Proverbs 18 17 Commentary

Proverbs 18:17 provides timeless wisdom concerning the pursuit of truth and the administration of justice, whether in legal settings, interpersonal conflicts, or evaluating information. It's a foundational warning against succumbing to the human tendency of making snap judgments based on initial appearances or partial information. The verse implicitly advocates for diligence, patience, and humility in listening, acknowledging that everyone is naturally inclined to present themselves in the best light. True wisdom demands active investigation, hearing diverse perspectives, and rigorously testing claims. It applies to situations as varied as:

• A manager hearing an employee complaint without asking for the other side of the story.
• Someone reacting to social media headlines before reading the full article or seeking counter-arguments.
• Church members believing gossip before speaking to all parties involved.The verse reminds us that righteousness often isn't obvious; it's unearthed through careful, unbiased inquiry.