Mark Dunagan Commentaries

Ecclesiastes 10:6

"folly is set in many exalted places while rich men sit in humble places."

So much for absolute confidence in any form of government or administration! Yes, nothing has changed, even Solomon saw that many foolish men had been placed in very powerful, influential and responsible positions. The best candidate isn't always elected or selected. Other factors, such as owing someone. political favor, etc…, often enter in and cloud. leader's judgment. Rulers often make the mistake of appointing incompetent individuals to positions of power. "Appointments that went to the wrong people. We can make our own guess at the intrigues, threats, flatteries and bribes that paved the way for them" (Kidner p. 90).

"Rich" -not simply those who have wealth, but men of noble birth, men from who from. natural position would be looked upon as having leadership potential. Men who had the means to train themselves for high office, men who regarded positions of leadership, not from the motive of personal profit, but from the desire to serve the public trust. Note: There is nothing wrong with being rich, for the "rich" here are placed in contrast with fools.

Point To Note:

Many people in our society would feel that the above would be. great triumph in social justice. "If some are inclined to applaud….Solomon has no illusions about men at the top…neither does he view these upsets as triumphs of social justice" (Kidner p. 90). Lest we are tempted to idolize the poor and downtrodden, or the person who rose through the ranks after being born in. one room house, Solomon notes that among the rich there are often men of noble character and true leadership material.

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Mark Dunagan Commentaries

Ecclesiastes 10:6

Old Testament

New Testament