Ecclesiastes 10:1

Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour.

King James Version
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Other Translations for Ecclesiastes 10:1

BSB
As dead flies bring a stench to the perfumer's oil, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor.
AKJV
Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking smell: so does a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honor.
CPDV
Dying flies ruin the sweetness of the ointment. Wisdom and glory is more precious than a brief and limited foolishness.
ERV
Dead flies cause the ointment of the perfumer to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly outweigh wisdom and honour.
NHEB
Dead flies cause the oil of the perfumer to send forth an evil odor; so does a little folly outweigh wisdom and honor.
SMT
Flies of death will cause the oil of the perfume to stink, it will ferment: the preciousness of wisdom above the honor of the least folly.

Commentary for Ecclesiastes 10:1

Please note: this is not Scripture

These study resources are provided for informational purposes only. They reflect human interpretation, are subject to human error, and should not be considered divinely inspired or authoritative.

Barnes’ Notes Classic commentary from Albert Barnes Matthew Henry Commentary Classic commentary from Matthew Henry
Overview of Ecclesiastes 10:1
Summary
Small defects ruin entire reputation
Event
Illustration of minor corruption
Estimated Time Period
c. 3rd century BC
Category
Wisdom