Ecclesiastes 10:11
If the snake bites before it is charmed, then is there no profit for the charmer’s tongue.
World English Bible
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 gracious; but a fool is swallowed by his own lips.
Cross References
Psalms 58:4Their poison is like the poison of a snake, like a deaf cobra that stops its ear,
Psalms 64:3who sharpen their tongue like a sword, and aim their arrows, deadly words,
Jeremiah 8:17“For, behold, I will send serpents, adders among you, which will not be charmed; and they will bite you,” 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 →