What does Ecclesiastes 10:5 mean?

Ecclesiastes 10:5 highlights themes such as evil, leadership, injustice when read in context.

How should I apply Ecclesiastes 10:5 today?

Read the surrounding passage, compare related cross references, and turn the verse into a short prayer and concrete action.

There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, as an error which proceedeth from the ruler:

3Yea also, when he that is a fool walketh by the way, his wisdom faileth him, and he saith to every one that he is a fool.

4If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for yielding pacifieth great offences.

5There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, as an error which proceedeth from the ruler:

6Folly is set in great dignity, and the rich sit in low place.

7I have seen servants upon horses, and princes walking as servants upon the earth.

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Proverbs 29:2
Both verses discuss the impact of righteous leadership on a community.
Isaiah 10:1
Isaiah warns against unjust rulers, similar to the error seen in Ecclesiastes.
Matthew 23:4
Jesus criticizes the burdens placed by the Pharisees, echoing the theme of leadership failure.