101 Dead flies make the perfumer's ointment give off an evil odor; so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor. 2 A wise man's heart inclines him toward the right, but a fool's heart toward the left. 3 Even when the fool walks on the road, he lacks sense, and he says to every one that he is a fool.
4 If the anger of the ruler rises against you, do not leave your place, for deference will make amends for great offenses.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 10:1-4
Commentary on Ecclesiastes 10:1-3
(Read Ecclesiastes 10:1-3)
Those especially who make a profession of religion, should keep from all appearances of evil. A wise man has great advantage over a fool, who is always at a loss when he has anything to do. Sin is the reproach of sinners, wherever they go, and shows their folly.
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.