Proverbs 18:17
The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.
Berean Standard Bible
In The King James Version
He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.
In Context
16A man’s gift opens doors for him, and brings him before great men.
18Casting the lot ends quarrels and separates strong opponents.
Cross References
2 Samuel 16:1When David had gone a little beyond the summit, Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth was there to meet him. He had a pair of saddled donkeys loaded with two hundred loaves of bread, a hundred clusters of raisins, a hundred summer fruits, and a skin of wine.
Proverbs 18:13He who answers a matter before he hears it— this is folly and disgrace to him.
Acts 24:12Yet my accusers did not find me debating with anyone in the temple or riling up a crowd in the synagogues or in the city.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 18:17
16 A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men. Of what great force gifts (that is, bribes) are he had intimated before, ch. xvii. 8 , 23 . Here he shows the power of gifts, that is, presents made even by inferiors to those that are above them and have much more than they have. A good present will go far, 1. Towards a man's liberty: A man's gift, if he be in prison, may procure his enlargement; there are courtiers, who, if they use their interest even for oppressed innocency, expect to… Read the whole commentary →