Here's why:
* Foxes are predators: Foxes are known for their cunning and ability to hunt and kill chickens.
* Chickens are prey: Chickens are vulnerable to foxes, making them an easy target.
Therefore, the image of a fox guarding a hen house is inherently contradictory. It's like putting a wolf in charge of the sheep! The fox is in a position of power to exploit the chickens, and it's highly unlikely they'll resist the temptation.
Examples of how the proverb is used:
* "It's like putting a fox in charge of the hen house!" - This is said when someone is put in a position where they have the opportunity to take advantage of others.
* "Trusting the company's CEO to manage the finances is like putting a fox in charge of the hen house." - This implies that the CEO is likely to prioritize their own wealth and potentially harm the company's financial well-being.
The proverb highlights the importance of choosing trustworthy individuals for positions of responsibility and the risks of placing someone in a position where they can easily abuse their power.