Proverbs 18:16-18

New Living Translation

¹⁶Giving a gift can open doors;
it gives access to important people!

¹⁷The first to speak in court sounds right—
until the cross-examination begins.

¹⁸Flipping a coin^[a] can end arguments;
it settles disputes between powerful opponents.

Proverbs 18:16-18

New International Version

¹⁶A gift^(A) opens the way
and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.

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

¹⁸Casting the lot settles disputes^(B)
and keeps strong opponents apart.

New Living Translation (NLT)

New International Version (NIV)