Perhaps the theme continues as Solomon extends another metaphor, perhaps suggesting that the properly prepared mind can prevent problems, or at least identify and resolve them before they become too serious.

It is crucially important to identify potential hazards and establish proper procedures before, rather than after a disaster has taken place. So, perhaps the theme continues, as Solomon points out the importance of anticipation and forward planning in dealing with danger – illustrating it by the obvious importance of the snake charmer getting the flute music going before the snake is allowed out of its basket.

Perhaps Solomon, in his genius, has also woven in other principles, such as the need to properly contain potential hazards – as illustrated by the way the basket effectively restricts the movement of the snake.

Perhaps Solomon is also making a smooth transition to a new topic by relating risk and hazard to charm and psychological influence. In any business or problem situation, it is important to analyze the psychological forces at play and manipulate them appropriately, rather than relying on direct action, confrontation and physical force – as illustrated by the use of music to charm a deadly snake and use its swaying dance as a source of profit, something that could never be accomplished by brute force. How does a good manager apply psychology to keep even potentially hostile staff happy and productive, rather than antagonistic and militant?

Solomon’s proverb also illustrates another principle familiar to business consultants -- namely the importance of turning weaknesses into strengths, and hazards into sources of profit, which is precisely what the snake charmer does

Possible applications of this principle that come mind might include finding uses for hazardous waste materials, making money from processing the waste products of other companies, developing the capability to safely carry out important tasks that others find too difficult, dangerous or unpalatable.

Human nature being what it is, many people are potentially difficult, and easily provoked into being unpleasant and obstructive, a fact of life that makes disarmingly gracious speech and diplomacy very important. Such is life that, just as the angry snake may inject its venom into you, so the other person’s angry reaction may also poison your emotions, causing you to react in an equally unpleasant and unwise manner – a theme that Solomon continues in the next section.