Because of life’s uncertainties, we should guard our heart (10:2), exercise caution in all we do, and act with practical wisdom.​—10:8-10.

◆ 10:2​—How is the heart at the right hand?

The “right hand” often denotes a position of favor. (Matthew 25:33) So the fact that the heart of the wise person is “at his right hand” indicates that it motivates him to pursue a good, favorable course. But the stupid individual lacks good motive and acts foolishly and improperly. His heart’s being at his “left hand” indicates that he is motivated to follow a wrong path.