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 offers two vivid proverbial images to illustrate the principle that actions, particularly those born of malice, recklessness, or disregard for established order, inevitably bring about their own negative consequences. The verse warns that those who plot harm for others often become ensnared in their own traps, and those who dismantle protective boundaries invite unforeseen dangers upon themselves, underscoring a fundamental moral order where deeds boomerang upon the doer.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ecclesiastes is a profound work of wisdom literature, presenting the reflections of Qoheleth, or "the Preacher," as he grapples with the meaning and purpose of life "under the sun"—that is, from a human perspective, apart from direct divine revelation. Chapter 10 specifically delves into the practical outworking of wisdom versus folly in daily life, leadership, and governance. It is a collection of pithy, often contrasting, proverbial statements that highlight the subtle yet significant differences between wise and foolish conduct. This particular verse, Ecclesiastes 10:8, functions as a concise, memorable aphorism, immediately following a general observation about the consequences of human labor and preceding further reflections on the perils of foolishness in positions of power. It serves as a stark warning within Qoheleth's broader discourse on the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of prudent action.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, "digging a pit" was a common method for trapping animals or even enemies, often concealed to ensnare the unsuspecting. Similarly, "hedges" (or walls) were essential protective barriers, safeguarding fields, vineyards, and homes from intruders, wild animals, or erosion. To "break a hedge" was not merely an act of vandalism but a dangerous disruption of a vital protective structure, inviting peril. Serpents were a constant, dangerous presence in the region, often found in disturbed or neglected areas, making them a fitting symbol of sudden, unexpected harm. The proverb thus draws on universally understood agricultural and defensive practices, and common dangers, to communicate a timeless moral truth about cause and effect. The imagery would have resonated 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 in Ecclesiastes and biblical wisdom literature. Primarily, it underscores the theme of **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 broader biblical principle of **sowing and reaping**, where the fruit of one's labor, good or ill, returns to the sower (e.g., [Job 4:8](/job/4-8 "Job 4:8 - Those who sow trouble reap it")). Secondly, it highlights the theme of **wisdom versus folly**. The "digger of pits" and the "breaker of hedges" represent foolish or malicious individuals whose actions are ill-conceived or destructive, leading to self-inflicted harm. Conversely, the wise person understands the inherent dangers of such actions and acts with prudence and respect for order. Finally, there's a subtle theme of **divine order or justice**, suggesting that even "under the sun," there is an inherent moral structure to the universe where evil intentions often boomerang, even if not immediately or overtly through divine intervention, but through the natural outworking of consequences, as seen 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 meaning "to pry into," by implication, "to delve" or "to explore." This word suggests a deliberate, intentional act of excavation, often with a hidden or deceptive purpose. It implies a calculated effort to create a trap or a snare, rather than an accidental digging.
* **pit (Hebrew, _gûwmmâts'_):** Of uncertain derivation, this term refers specifically to a "pit" or a deep hole. In the context of traps, it denotes a concealed excavation designed to ensnare. The word evokes a sense of a hidden danger, a void or chasm prepared for another's downfall.
* **serpent (Hebrew, _nâchâsh'_):** 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.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it":** This clause presents a classic proverb found in various forms throughout wisdom literature. It speaks to the ironic and often self-defeating nature of malicious intent. The one 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 or destructive plans rebound upon the originator. It highlights a principle of poetic justice inherent in the moral fabric of the world.
* **"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. A hedge serves as a vital barrier, and its destruction invites 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, carelessness, or a destructive attitude toward beneficial structures, indicating that such actions expose one to unexpected perils.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 10:8 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound truth. The most prominent is **Proverbial Wisdom**, presenting a concise, memorable statement of practical truth derived from observation and experience. 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 underscore the same core principle: actions have 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 **Symbolism**: the "pit" symbolizes a trap or scheme designed for another's downfall, and the "serpent" symbolizes the sudden, dangerous, and often painful repercussions that arise from such actions or from the disruption of protective order. The "hedge" itself symbolizes boundaries, protection, and established order. The use of these devices makes the abstract concept of consequences tangible and 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. It underscores the principle that God has woven into creation a system of justice, where destructive intentions or reckless disregard for order often boomerang upon the perpetrator. This is not merely a human observation but a reflection of divine wisdom embedded in the fabric of reality. The verse serves as a powerful warning against both active malice and passive negligence, reminding us that true wisdom involves foresight and a respect for the established order, whether natural 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.

* [Proverbs 26:27](/proverbs/26-27 "Proverbs 26:27 - The Consequences of Digging a Pit")
* [Psalm 7:15](/psalms/7-15 "Psalm 7:15 - The Pit of the Wicked")
* [Galatians 6:7](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7 - The Principle of Sowing and Reaping")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ecclesiastes 10:8 offers timeless wisdom that transcends its ancient context, speaking directly to the human tendency towards self-sabotage, whether through deliberate malice or thoughtless action. It serves as a potent reminder that our choices carry 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 caution and integrity in our interactions, recognizing that schemes to undermine others or spread negativity will ultimately diminish our own well-being. In a broader societal sense, it calls for a careful consideration of the long-term consequences of policy decisions, technological advancements, or social changes that might break down protective "hedges" of tradition, community, or ethical standards, potentially unleashing unforeseen dangers. The verse encourages a posture of prudence, responsibility, and ethical foresight, urging us to build up rather than tear down, and to consider the ripple effects of every action.

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

### 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 context of 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.

**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 can lead to unforeseen and harmful outcomes.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 10:8, with its stark imagery of consequences, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment not only in the principle of sowing and reaping but more deeply in the person and 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 sacrifice for ours. Those who plotted against Him—the religious leaders who "dug a pit" of false accusations and betrayal (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, rising victorious ([Romans 6:9](/romans/6-9 "Romans 6:9 - Christ's Resurrection")). Furthermore, while the verse warns against "breaking a hedge" and inviting a serpent's bite, Jesus is the one who confronted the ultimate "serpent," Satan, in the wilderness ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1 "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 ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")). Thus, Ecclesiastes 10:8, while a warning to humanity, points 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 path of life.

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.