NET Bible
"One dead fly makes the perfumer’s ointment give off a rancid stench, so a little folly can outweigh much wisdom."
— Ecclesiastes 10:1, NET Bible
“Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour.”
“Dead flies cause the oil of the perfumer to send forth an evil odor; so doth a little folly outweigh wisdom and honor. ”
“Dead flies cause the oil of the perfumer to send forth an evil odor; so does a little folly outweigh wisdom and honor.”
“Dying flies spoil the sweetness of the ointment. Wisdom and glory is more precious than a small and shortlived folly.”
“Dead flies make the oil of the perfumer give out an evil smell; more valued is a little wisdom than the great glory of the foolish.”
“Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour.”
One dead fly makes the perfumer’s ointment give off a rancid stench, so a little folly can outweigh much wisdom.
Wisdom Can Be Nullified By the Caprice of Rulers A wise person’s good sense protects him, but a fool’s lack of sense leaves him vulnerable.
Even when a fool walks along the road he lacks sense, and shows everyone what a fool he is.
If the anger of the ruler flares up against you, do not resign from your position, for a calm response can undo great offenses.