JW Comments

In Ecclesiastes 10:1 I learn that “a little foolishness outweighs wisdom and glory.” It teaches me that a single foolish action or a small lapse in judgment can ruin a good reputation earned with great effort. This benefits us by reminding us of the importance of prudence and soundness in everything we do so as not to stain our testimony as Jehovah’s servants. It is a warning not to become overconfident no matter how much wisdom we have.

In Ecclesiastes 10:2, 3 I learn that “the heart of the wise inclines to the right, but the heart of the fool to the left.” It teaches me that wisdom is an internal guide that helps us make the right decisions. The fool, on the other hand, not only takes the wrong path but does so in a way so obvious that it reveals him to everyone. This benefits us by reminding us of the importance of cultivating a wise heart so that our actions reflect that we are Jehovah’s servants.

In Ecclesiastes 10:4 there is a gem of great practical wisdom: “If the anger of a ruler rises against you, do not leave your place, for calmness can lay great offenses to rest.” It teaches me that when we face the wrath of someone in authority, the best response is patience and calm, not fleeing or confrontation. This benefits us by reminding us that meekness and prudence are more effective than anger, as they can defuse tense situations. We can apply this when dealing with our bosses, teachers, or anyone else in a position of power.

In Ecclesiastes 10:6, 7 I learn about the vanity of seeing fools in high positions and the competent in low ones. It teaches me that in this world things are often done unjustly and leadership is not always given to those who deserve it. This benefits us by helping us not to be discouraged by the injustices we see in the world. It reminds us that true justice is not found in this system of things but will come with God’s Kingdom.

In Ecclesiastes 10:8-11 it teaches me that actions have consequences. If someone digs a pit, they may fall into it. If an ax is dull, the work is harder. If a snake is not charmed, it bites. This benefits me by reminding me to be diligent, foresighted, and wise in everything I do to avoid negative consequences. It motivates us to “sharpen our ax” constantly—that is, to use wisdom and knowledge to do our work more efficiently and safely.

In Ecclesiastes 10:12, 13 there is a very powerful gem: “The words from the mouth of the wise win him favor, but the lips of the fool consume him.” It teaches me that the difference between a wise person and a foolish one is evident in what they say. The words of the wise are constructive, while those of the fool are destructive from beginning to end. This benefits us by reminding us of the importance of controlling our tongue and thinking before we speak, since our words have the power to bring blessings or ruin.

In Ecclesiastes 10:18 I learn that because of extreme laziness the roof beams sag, and because of idle hands the house leaks. It teaches me that laziness and lack of diligence bring inevitable consequences. This benefits us by motivating us to be hardworking and responsible in everything we do. It reminds us that we cannot neglect our responsibilities and expect everything to be fine; negligence will always have consequences.

In Ecclesiastes 10:20 there is a gem that gives us a very clear warning: “Do not curse the king even in your thoughts... for a bird may carry the sound of your voice.” It teaches me that we must be prudent and cautious even in our thoughts and private conversations, since our words can be revealed and cause problems. This benefits us by reminding us of the importance of loyalty and respect for authority even when we do not agree with them.