Folly is set in great dignity, and the rich sit in low place.
Folly set in great dignity means that the error or folly of a ruler can raise folly itself to a position of great dignity, honor and influence. The counterpart is that the rich — those who deserve a higher place — are left to sit in a low place.
Solomon’s apostasy illustrates this reversal, for it weakened his good influence, brought evil practices into Israel and led many people astray.
Even after his sincere repentance the damage done to his influence and its effects upon the people could not readily be undone. His example encouraged continued wrongdoing, and many persisted in evil even after he turned back. That harmful influence lived on and could still be traced in later rulers.
Folly set in great dignity means that the error or folly of a ruler can raise folly itself to a position of great dignity, honor and influence. The counterpart is that the rich — those who deserve a higher place — are left to sit in a low place.
Solomon’s apostasy illustrates this reversal, for it weakened his good influence, brought evil practices into Israel and led many people astray.
Even after his sincere repentance the damage done to his influence and its effects upon the people could not readily be undone. His example encouraged continued wrongdoing, and many persisted in evil even after he turned back. That harmful influence lived on and could still be traced in later rulers.