Amplified Bible

Ecclesiastes 10:7-12 Amplified Bible (AMP)

7. I have seen slaves on horses, and princes walking like slaves on the earth.

8. He who digs a pit [for others] will fall into it, and whoever breaks through a fence or a [stone] wall, a serpent will bite him. [Ps. 57:6.]

9. Whoever removes [landmark] stones or hews out [new ones with similar intent] will be hurt with them, and he who fells trees will be endangered by them. [Prov. 26:27.]

10. If the ax is dull and the man does not whet the edge, he must put forth more strength; but wisdom helps him to succeed.

11. If the serpent bites before it is charmed, then it is no use to call a charmer [and the slanderer is no better than the uncharmed snake].

12. The words of a wise man's mouth are gracious and win him favor, but the lips of a fool consume him.