💡WEB · Proverbs 26:20

What does Proverbs 26:20 mean?

"For lack of wood a fire goes out. Without gossip, a quarrel dies down."

— Proverbs 26:20 (World English Bible)

Surrounding context

17

Like one who grabs a dog’s ears is one who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own.

18

Like a madman who shoots torches, arrows, and death,

19

is the man who deceives his neighbor and says, “Am I not joking?”

20

For lack of wood a fire goes out. Without gossip, a quarrel dies down.

21

As coals are to hot embers, and wood to fire, so is a contentious man to kindling strife.

22

The words of a whisperer are as dainty morsels, they go down into the innermost parts.

23

Like silver dross on an earthen vessel are the lips of a fervent one with an evil heart.

A full explanation for this verse is coming soon. In the meantime, you can ask our AI about Proverbs 26:20 directly — it will give you a detailed answer grounded in the actual text.

Compare translations

Go deeper with ScriptureCompanion AI

Ask questions about any verse, follow reading plans, write personal prayers, and track your daily habit — all grounded in verified scripture text.