Proverbios 17

As one letteth loose a stream of water, so is the beginning of strife: therefore before it be enkindled, leave off the contest.

El que comienza la pendencia es como quien suelta las aguas: deja pues la porfía, antes que se enmarañe.

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

The beginning of strife is like breaching a dam, therefore stop contention before quarreling breaks out.