Ecclesiastes 10:5-11

New International Version

⁵ There is an evil I have seen under the sun,
    the sort of error that arises from a ruler:
⁶ Fools are put in many high positions,^(A)
    while the rich occupy the low ones.
⁷ I have seen slaves on horseback,
    while princes go on foot like slaves.^(B)

⁸ Whoever digs a pit may fall into it;^(C)
    whoever breaks through a wall may be bitten by a snake.^(D)
9 Whoever quarries stones may be injured by them;
    whoever splits logs may be endangered by them.^(E)

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.^(F)