Ecclesiastes 10:11
If a snake gives a bite before the word of power is said, then there is no longer any use in the word of power.
Bible in Basic English
In The King James Version
Surely the serpent will bite without enchantment; and a babbler is no better.
In Context
12The words of a wise man's mouth are sweet to all, but the lips of a foolish man are his destruction.
Cross References
Psalms 58:4\58:3\The evil-doers are strange from the first; from the hour of their birth they go out of the true way, saying false words.
Psalms 64:3\64:2\Keep me safe from the secret purpose of wrongdoers; from the band of the workers of evil;
Jeremiah 8:17See, I will send snakes and poison-snakes among you, against which the wonder-worker has no power; and they will give you wounds which may not be made well, says the Lord.
Matthew Henry on Ecclesiastes 10:5-12
Mutual Duties of Princes and Subjects. 4 If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for yielding pacifieth great offences. 5 There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, as an error which proceedeth 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 diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breaketh a hedge, a serpent shall bite him. 9 Whoso removeth stones… Read the whole commentary →