Ecclesiastes 10:10

King James Version (KJV)

If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.

In context

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

9 Whoso removeth stones shall be hurt therewith; and he that cleaveth wood shall be endangered thereby.

10 If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.

11 Surely the serpent will bite without enchantment; and a babbler is no better.

12 The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself.

KJV King James Version: If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.
WEB World English Bible: If the ax is blunt, and one doesn’t sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; but skill brings success.
BSB Berean Standard Bible: If the axe is dull and the blade unsharpened, more strength must be exerted, but skill produces success.
ASV American Standard Version: If the iron be blunt, and one do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.
YLT Young's Literal Translation: If the iron hath been blunt, And he the face hath not sharpened, Then doth he increase strength, And wisdom [is] advantageous to make right.
DBY Darby Translation: If the iron be blunt, and one do not whet the edge, then must he apply more strength; but wisdom is profitable to give success.
WBS Webster Bible: If the iron is blunt, and he doth not whet the edge, then must he use more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.