Grab an Ear

(Proverbs 26:17 KJV)  He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.

This is a bit confusing to me.  I am not an animal person but there have been a few dogs in my life.  One of the things you do in showing affection is to ruffle a dogs ears.  Yet here we are warned about it.  In my investigation I looked up the word “takes” (2388) which in the English is a simple word.  The Hebrew definition had 25 different nuances and variations.  All of them seemed to indicate forceful grabbing.  That seems to be the key.

There is a difference between an affectionate touch on the cheek and a vicious slap.  The recipient knows and the deliverer knows.  It is no secret what the intention is.  This is not saying, “Never touch a dog.”  It is telling us to be gentle and not push in where we are not wanted. 

So?  People know your intentions.  Make sure they are pure.