He that removeth stones, shall hurt himself thereby, and he that cutteth wood, shall be in danger thereby.

10 If the iron be blunt, and one hath not whet the edge, he must then put to more [a]strength: but the excellency to direct a thing is wisdom.

11 If the serpent bite, when he is not charmed: no better is a babbler.

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Footnotes

  1. Ecclesiastes 10:10 Without wisdom whatsoever a man taketh in hand, turneth to his own hurt.

Whoever quarries stones may be injured by them;
    whoever splits logs may be endangered by them.(A)

10 If the ax is dull
    and its edge unsharpened,
more strength is needed,
    but skill will bring success.

11 If a snake bites before it is charmed,
    the charmer receives no fee.(B)

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