Ecclesiastes 10:1
▸ Hear this chapter, lit word by wordDead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour.
— Ecclesiastes 10:1, King James Version
In other translations
World English Bible (WEB)
Dead flies cause the oil of the perfumer to send forth an evil odor; so does a little folly outweigh wisdom and honor.
American Standard Version (ASV)
Dead flies cause the oil of the perfumer to send forth an evil odor; so doth a little folly outweigh wisdom and honor.
Young's Literal Translation (YLT)
Dead flies cause a perfumer's perfume To send forth a stink; The precious by reason of wisdom--By reason of honour--a little folly!