4 If the spirit of the ruler rises up against you, don’t leave your place; for gentleness lays great offenses to rest.
5 There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, the sort of error which proceeds from the ruler.
6 Folly is set in great dignity, and the rich sit in a low place.
7 I have seen servants on horses, and princes walking like servants on the earth.
8 He who digs a pit may fall into it; and whoever breaks through a wall may be bitten by a snake.
9 Whoever carves out stones may be injured by them. Whoever splits wood may be endangered thereby.
10 If the ax is blunt, and one doesn’t sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but skill brings success.