4 If the ruler's temper rises against you, do not abandon your position , because composure allays great offenses . 5 There is an evil I have seen under the sun , like an error which goes forth from the ruler - 6 folly is set in many exalted places while rich men sit in humble places . 7 I have seen slaves riding on horses and princes walking like slaves on the land . 8 He who digs a pit may fall into it, and a serpent may bite him who breaks through a wall . 9 He who quarries stones may be hurt by them, and he who splits logs may be endangered by them. 10 If the axe is dull and he does not sharpen its edge , then he must exert more strength . Wisdom has the advantage of giving success .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 10:4-10
Commentary on Ecclesiastes 10:4-10
(Read Ecclesiastes 10:4-10)
Solomon appears to caution men not to seek redress in a hasty manner, nor to yield to pride and revenge. Do not, in a passion, quit thy post of duty; wait awhile, and thou wilt find that yielding pacifies great offences. Men are not preferred according to their merit. And those are often most forward to offer help, who are least aware of the difficulties, or the consequences. The same remark is applied to the church, or the body of Christ, that all the members should have the same care one for another.