Ecclesiastes 10:1-10

1As dead flies give perfume a bad smell, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor.

2The heart of the wise inclines to the right, but the heart of the fool to the left.

3Even as fools walk along the road, they lack sense and show everyone how stupid they are.

4If a ruler’s anger rises against you, do not leave your post; calmness can lay great offenses to rest.

5There is an evil I have seen under the sun, the sort of error that arises from a ruler:

6Fools are put in many high positions, while the rich occupy the low ones.

7I have seen slaves on horseback, while princes go on foot like slaves.

8Whoever digs a pit may fall into it; whoever breaks through a wall may be bitten by a snake.

9Whoever quarries stones may be injured by them; whoever splits logs may be endangered by them.

10If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill will bring success.