5 There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, as an error which proceeds from the ruler:
6 Folly is set in great dignity, and the rich sit in low place.
7 I have seen servants upon horses, and princes walking as servants upon the earth.
8 He that digs a pit shall fall into it; and whosoever breaks through a wall, a serpent shall bite him.
9 Whosoever quarries stones may be hurt by them; and he that splits wood shall be endangered by it.
10 If the iron is blunt, and he does not sharpen the edge, then must he use more strength: but wisdom helps one to succeed.
11 Surely the serpent will bite without enchantment; and a babbler is no better.