Opening of Pandora's box

The phrase "opening Pandora's box" originates from Greek mythology. Pandora, the first woman on Earth, was given a jar (often called a box) and told not to open it. Curious, she did, releasing all the world's suffering, misfortune, and chaos. In modern usage, it refers to taking an action that seems small or harmless but ultimately leads to unexpected and uncontrollable problems or complications. It highlights how a single decision or act can inadvertently release trouble or negative consequences that were previously contained or unseen.