EcclesiastesChapter 10
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1Dead flies make the perfumer's oil stink. In the same way, a little foolishness outweighs wisdom and honor. 2A wise man's heart leans to the right. But a fool's heart leans to the left. 3Even when a fool walks down the road, he has no sense. He shows everyone that he is a fool. 4If the ruler gets angry with you, do not leave your post. For staying calm can put great wrongs to rest. 5I have seen an evil under the sun. It is a mistake that comes from the ruler: 6Fools are put in high places. But the rich sit in low places. 7I have seen slaves riding on horses. And I have seen princes walking on foot like slaves. 8Whoever digs a pit may fall into it. Whoever breaks through a wall may be bitten by a snake. 9Whoever cuts stones may be hurt by them. Whoever splits logs puts himself in danger. 10If the axe is dull and the blade is not sharpened, you must use more strength. But skill brings success. 11If a snake bites before it is charmed, the snake charmer gains nothing. 12The words of a wise man's mouth are kind. But a fool's lips destroy him. 13His talk begins with foolishness. It ends with evil madness. 14Still the fool keeps talking more and more. No one knows what is coming. Who can tell him what will happen after him? 15A fool's work makes him tired, for he does not know the way to the city. 16How terrible for you, land whose king is a boy! How terrible when your princes feast in the morning! 17You are blessed, land whose king comes from a noble family. You are blessed when your princes feast at the right time. They eat for strength, not to get drunk. 18Because of laziness, the roof falls in. Because of idle hands, the house leaks. 19A feast is made for laughter. Wine makes life happy. But money is the answer for everything. 20Do not curse the king, even in your thoughts. Do not curse the rich, even in your bedroom. For a bird in the sky may carry your words. A creature with wings may tell what you said.