KJV ORIGINAL
It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
It's better to live alone in a tiny corner on the rooftop than to share a big, beautiful house with a woman who constantly argues and fights.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
The writer is saying that peace and quiet, even in cramped conditions, is much better than luxury with someone who creates constant conflict.
📚 Historical Context
In ancient Israel, housetops were flat and used for various activities, but living there would mean being exposed to weather and having very little space. A 'wide house' represented wealth and comfort, as most people lived in small, crowded homes. This proverb reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding that domestic harmony was essential for a good life.
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