Charles Ellicott Commentary Ecclesiastes 10:4

"If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for gentleness allayeth great offences." — Ecclesiastes 10:4 (ASV)

We return now to the thought of Ecclesiastes 8:3. For “spirit” in the sense of “anger,” see Judges 8:3.

Rise up.—Psalms 78:21; 2 Samuel 11:20.

Yielding.—Literally, healing. (See Proverbs 15:4.)

Pacifies great offences.—Rather, probably, quiets great offences, that is to say, not so much “puts an end to the offence felt by the ruler,” but rather the offences likely to be committed if he does not restrain himself.