Ecclesiastes 10:8

KJV

He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breaketh an hedge, a serpent shall bite him.

KJV (with Strong's)

He that diggeth {H2658} a pit {H1475} shall fall {H5307} into it; and whoso breaketh {H6555} an hedge {H1447}, a serpent {H5175} shall bite {H5391} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

He who digs a pit may fall into it; he who breaks through a wall may be bitten by a snake.

Berean Standard Bible

He who digs a pit may fall into it, and he who breaches a wall may be bitten by a snake.

American Standard Version

He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breaketh through a wall, a serpent shall bite him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 10:8 employs two vivid proverbial images to underscore a fundamental principle of moral order: actions, particularly those driven by malice, recklessness, or a disregard for established boundaries, inevitably boomerang upon the perpetrator, bringing about their own negative and often ironic consequences. The verse serves as a potent warning that those who plot harm for others often become ensnared in their own traps, and those who dismantle protective structures invite unforeseen dangers upon themselves, highlighting a universe where deeds, good or ill, return to the doer.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ecclesiastes is a profound exploration of life's meaning and purpose "under the sun," a phrase Qoheleth (the Preacher) uses to denote human existence viewed apart from direct divine revelation. Chapter 10 specifically transitions from broader philosophical musings to practical wisdom, offering a series of aphorisms that contrast wise and foolish conduct in daily life, especially concerning leadership and social interaction. This chapter, rich in proverbial sayings, emphasizes the subtle yet significant impact of one's actions and attitudes. Ecclesiastes 10:8 functions as a concise, memorable illustration of the principle of consequences, immediately following observations about the fruits of human labor and preceding further reflections on the perils of foolishness in positions of authority. It is a stark, almost universal warning embedded within Qoheleth's broader discourse on the unpredictable nature of life and the critical importance of prudent action.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery in Ecclesiastes 10:8 is deeply rooted in the agricultural and social realities of the ancient Near East. "Digging a pit" was a common, often deceptive, method for trapping wild animals or, in times of conflict, even human adversaries, frequently concealed to ensnare the unsuspecting. This practice was well-understood as a deliberate act of malice. Similarly, "hedges" (Hebrew: _gâdêr_), often constructed from thorny bushes or stone walls, were indispensable protective barriers for fields, vineyards, and homesteads, safeguarding against intruders, wild animals, and erosion. To "break a hedge" was not a trivial act but a dangerous disruption of a vital protective structure, inviting peril and chaos. Serpents (Hebrew: _nâchâsh_) were a constant and dangerous presence in the region, frequently found in disturbed or neglected areas, making them a fitting symbol of sudden, unexpected, and often lethal harm. The proverb thus draws on universally recognized agricultural practices, defensive needs, and common environmental dangers to communicate a timeless moral truth about cause and effect, resonating deeply with an agrarian society acutely aware of the immediate consequences of their actions and the natural world around them.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes prevalent in Ecclesiastes and broader biblical wisdom literature. Foremost, it underscores the theme of the **consequences of actions**, emphasizing that one's deeds, whether malicious or careless, have a direct and often ironic impact on the perpetrator. This aligns with the pervasive biblical principle of **sowing and reaping**, where the fruit of one's labor, good or ill, returns to the sower, as seen in passages like [Job 4:8](/job/4-8 "Job 4:8 - Those Who Sow Trouble Reap It") and [Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - The Principle of Sowing and Reaping"). Secondly, it highlights the stark contrast between **wisdom and folly**. The "digger of pits" and the "breaker of hedges" represent foolish or malicious individuals whose actions are ill-conceived, destructive, or reckless, leading inevitably to self-inflicted harm. Conversely, the wise person understands the inherent dangers of such actions and acts with prudence, foresight, and respect for established order. Finally, there is a subtle yet profound theme of **divine order or justice** inherent in creation, suggesting that even "under the sun," there is an intrinsic moral structure to the universe where evil intentions often boomerang, not necessarily through immediate divine intervention, but through the natural outworking of consequences, a truth echoed in [Proverbs 26:27](/proverbs/26-27 "Proverbs 26:27 - The Pit and the Stone").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **diggeth (Hebrew, _châphar'_):** From a primitive root, this word properly means "to pry into" and, by implication, "to delve" or "to explore." In this context, it denotes a deliberate, intentional act of excavation, often with a hidden or deceptive purpose. It implies a calculated and often secretive effort to create a trap or a snare, rather than an accidental or innocent digging. The emphasis is on the intentionality behind the harmful act.
* **pit (Hebrew, _gûwmmâts'_):** Of uncertain derivation, this term specifically refers to a "pit" or a deep hole. In the context of traps, it signifies a concealed excavation designed to ensnare. The word evokes a sense of a hidden danger, a void or chasm prepared for another's downfall, highlighting the deceptive nature of the trap.
* **serpent (Hebrew, _nâchâsh'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to hiss," this word refers to a "snake." In the ancient world, serpents were a common and dangerous threat, often found in neglected or disturbed areas, such as broken hedges or walls. The serpent here symbolizes sudden, unexpected, and often lethal peril that arises when protective boundaries are breached, representing the unforeseen and painful consequences of recklessness or destruction.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it":** This clause presents a classic proverbial truth, found in various forms throughout wisdom literature, illustrating the ironic and often self-defeating nature of malicious intent. The individual who meticulously prepares a trap or scheme to harm another ultimately becomes the victim of their own device. This is not necessarily a direct act of divine retribution but rather the natural, moral consequence of one's actions, where negative energy, destructive plans, or ill-will rebounds upon the originator. It highlights a principle of poetic justice inherent in the moral fabric of the world, where wickedness often consumes its own architect.
* **"and whoso breaketh a hedge, a serpent shall bite him":** This second clause offers a parallel image, reinforcing the same principle of consequences but with a slightly different emphasis. "Breaking a hedge" implies a disregard for established boundaries, protective structures, or even societal norms and ethical safeguards. A hedge serves as a vital barrier, and its destruction invites chaos and danger. The "serpent" symbolizes the unforeseen, often painful, and dangerous consequences that emerge when order is disrupted or protective measures are carelessly or willfully dismantled. It warns against recklessness, negligence, or a destructive attitude toward beneficial structures, indicating that such actions expose one to unexpected and harmful perils.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 10:8 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound truth with memorable impact. The most prominent is **Proverbial Wisdom**, presenting a concise, memorable statement of practical truth derived from observation and experience, designed for easy recall and application. The verse utilizes **Synthetic Parallelism**, where the second line expands upon or completes the thought of the first, offering two distinct but conceptually related scenarios that powerfully underscore the same core principle: actions have inherent consequences. **Imagery** is central, with the vivid pictures of "digging a pit" and "breaking a hedge" creating concrete mental representations of malicious or reckless actions. These images are further enhanced by rich **Symbolism**: the "pit" symbolizes a trap or scheme designed for another's downfall, representing the hidden dangers of malicious intent. The "serpent" symbolizes the sudden, dangerous, and often painful repercussions that arise from such actions or from the disruption of protective order, embodying unforeseen peril. The "hedge" itself symbolizes boundaries, protection, and established order, highlighting the dangers of their neglect or destruction. The skillful use of these devices makes the abstract concept of consequences tangible, relatable, and deeply memorable, reinforcing the universal applicability of the proverb.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb from Ecclesiastes resonates deeply with the biblical understanding of a moral universe where actions have inherent consequences, a truth woven into the very fabric of creation by God. It underscores the principle that God has embedded a system of justice within reality, where destructive intentions or reckless disregard for order often boomerang upon the perpetrator. This is not merely a human observation of cause and effect but a reflection of divine wisdom and the integrity of God's design. The verse serves as a powerful warning against both active malice and passive negligence, reminding us that true wisdom involves foresight, prudence, and a profound respect for the established order, whether natural, social, or moral. It speaks to the integrity of God's design, where even "under the sun," there are built-in repercussions for folly and wickedness, demonstrating that the universe is not indifferent to human conduct.

* [Proverbs 26:27](/proverbs/26-27 "Proverbs 26:27 - The Consequences of Digging a Pit")
* [Psalm 7:15-16](/psalms/7-15-16 "Psalm 7:15-16 - The Wicked's Own Trap")
* [Galatians 6:7-8](/galatians/6-7-8 "Galatians 6:7-8 - Sowing and Reaping")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ecclesiastes 10:8 offers timeless wisdom that transcends its ancient context, speaking directly to the persistent human tendency towards self-sabotage, whether through deliberate malice or thoughtless action. It serves as a potent reminder that our choices carry inherent weight and often produce outcomes we did not anticipate, especially when those choices involve harming others or dismantling beneficial structures. In our personal lives, this means exercising profound caution, integrity, and empathy in our interactions, recognizing that schemes to undermine others, spread negativity, or engage in deceit will ultimately diminish our own well-being and invite unforeseen troubles. In a broader societal sense, the proverb calls for a careful and ethical consideration of the long-term consequences of policy decisions, technological advancements, or social changes that might inadvertently or deliberately "break down" the protective "hedges" of tradition, community, ethical standards, or environmental safeguards, potentially unleashing unforeseen dangers upon the collective. The verse encourages a posture of prudence, responsibility, and ethical foresight, urging us to build up rather than tear down, and to prayerfully consider the ripple effects of every action, fostering a mindset that seeks to create and preserve good.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, perhaps subtly or unintentionally, be "digging a pit" for others through gossip, manipulation, or unkind actions, and how might those actions ultimately harm me or my relationships?**
* **What "hedges" or protective boundaries (e.g., moral principles, healthy relational boundaries, societal norms, spiritual disciplines) in my life or community might I be carelessly or willfully "breaking," and what unforeseen "serpents" might I be inviting as a result?**
* **How does this verse challenge me to consider the long-term, perhaps unintended, consequences of my decisions, both personally and professionally, fostering a greater sense of responsibility and foresight?**

### FAQ
**Does "digging a pit" only refer to literal traps, or does it have a broader meaning?**

Answer: While the imagery of "digging a pit" certainly draws from the literal practice of setting traps for animals or enemies in the ancient world, in the context of biblical wisdom literature, it carries a much broader metaphorical meaning. It refers to any scheme, plot, or malicious action designed to harm, ensnare, or undermine another person. This could include spreading rumors, engaging in deceit, setting up someone for failure, or any form of intentional mischief. The proverb teaches that such ill-conceived plans often backfire, causing the perpetrator to suffer the very consequences they intended for someone else. This reflects a universal principle of moral recompense, where the evil one intends for another often recoils upon themselves, as seen in [Psalm 9:15-16](/psalms/9-15-16 "Psalm 9:15-16 - The Nations Trapped in Their Own Snares").

**What is the significance of the "serpent" in the second part of the verse?**

Answer: The "serpent" (Hebrew: _nâchâsh_) in Ecclesiastes 10:8 is a powerful symbol of sudden, unexpected, and often dangerous consequences. In the ancient world, serpents were a common and feared threat, often found lurking in neglected or disturbed areas, such as broken walls or hedges. When someone "breaks a hedge"—meaning they dismantle a protective barrier, disregard established order, or act recklessly—they expose themselves to unforeseen perils. The serpent, therefore, symbolizes the dangerous and often painful repercussions that emerge from such careless or destructive actions. It highlights that disrupting beneficial structures or boundaries invites a natural, often painful, reaction, much like disturbing a serpent's habitat invites a bite. This imagery underscores the idea that folly and disregard for order can lead to unforeseen and harmful outcomes, emphasizing the inherent dangers of dismantling what protects.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 10:8, with its stark imagery of consequences and the boomerang effect of human actions, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment not only in the principle of sowing and reaping but more deeply in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While the verse warns against digging pits for others, Jesus, in a divine paradox, allowed Himself to be cast into the "pit" of human sin and death, not as a victim of His own malice, but as the willing and perfect sacrifice for ours. Those who plotted against Him—the religious leaders who "dug a pit" of false accusations, betrayal, and a desire for His demise (e.g., [Matthew 26:3-4](/matthew/26-3 "Matthew 26:3-4 - The Plot Against Jesus"))—ultimately found their own systems and power structures crumbling, leading to their spiritual and, eventually, national downfall. Jesus, however, did not fall into the pit of death permanently; rather, He conquered it definitively, rising victorious over sin and the grave ([Romans 6:9-10](/romans/6-9-10 "Romans 6:9-10 - Christ's Victory Over Death")). Furthermore, while the proverb warns against "breaking a hedge" and inviting a serpent's bite, Jesus is the one who confronted the ultimate "serpent," Satan, in the wilderness temptations ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1-11 "Matthew 4:1-11 - The Temptation of Jesus")) and on the cross, ultimately crushing its head as prophesied in [Genesis 3:15](/genesis/3-15 "Genesis 3:15 - The Protoevangelium"). He broke down the dividing "wall" of hostility between Jew and Gentile, not to invite danger, but to create peace and unity in Himself, establishing a new, inclusive protective hedge of grace and reconciliation ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")). Thus, Ecclesiastes 10:8, while a cautionary proverb for humanity, points powerfully to Christ as the one who perfectly navigated the consequences of sin and folly, taking the bite of the serpent upon Himself to deliver us, and ultimately turning the pit of death into the glorious path of eternal life for all who believe.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 26:27

¶ Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him.

Psalms 7:15

He made a pit, and digged it, and is fallen into the ditch [which] he made.

Psalms 7:16

His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.

Esther 7:10

So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified.

Psalms 9:15

The heathen are sunk down in the pit [that] they made: in the net which they hid is their own foot taken.

Psalms 9:16

The LORD is known [by] the judgment [which] he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah.

Amos 5:19

As if a man did flee from a lion, and a bear met him; or went into the house, and leaned his hand on the wall, and a serpent bit him.