So you don't really know what's going to be, when it's going to be. We come now to the last part of the books third major section, which began in chapter 6, dealing with explaining and applying the plan of God in light of it seeming to be unfair. Please enter your email address associated with your Salem All-Pass account, then click Continue. As Peter is talking about the second coming of the Lord, he said, "Hey, in the last days there are going to be scoffers that are going to come saying, 'Where is the promise of Jesus coming again? THE FOLLOWING COMMENTARY COVERS CHAPTER S 1 THROUGH 12. Hey, it's great to be merry because a man has no better thing under the sun. So, because God has waited so long, because God hasn't speedily executed His sentence against the evil, people begin to assume that God has just withdrawn Himself. Yes, we have a lot of hard work to do. So God is very kind. sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide He would not have us to be surprised at it, as though some strange thing happened, for he himself saw it in his days, Ecclesiastes 8:14; Ecclesiastes 8:14. Verse 1 extols having wisdom. The Targum interprets it of the joy of the law; Here he shows, 1. for that shall abide with him of his labor the days of his life, which God gives him under the sun ( Ecclesiastes 8:15 ). Prudence before kings (Ecclesiastes 8:1)_ [10] For they truly for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. because a man hath no better thing under the sun than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry; of earthly things there is nothing better than for a man freely and cheerfully, with moderation and thankfulness, to enjoy what God has given him; this is what had been observed before, Ecclesiastes 2:24; and is not the language of an epicure, or a carnal man, who observing that no difference is made between the righteous and the wicked, that it is as well or better with the wicked than the righteous, determines to give up himself to sensual lusts and pleasures; but it is the good and wholesome advice of the wise man, for men to be easy under every providence, satisfied with their present condition and circumstances, and be cheerful and pleasant, and not distress themselves about things they cannot alter; for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life. sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry._ He's very loving. The highest wisdom is Honor the king.American King James Version). Ecclesiastes 8:15 in all English translations. Then I commended merriment, because a man hath no better thing ( Ecclesiastes 8:15 ), And this is his human philosophy and human reasoning coming out again. Solomon in verse 2 says to keep the kings command, not My commandhe being the king. Ecclesiastes 8:15 Parallel Verses [ See commentary ] Ecclesiastes 8:15, NIV: So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad.Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun. COMMEND PLEASURE, FOR THERE IS NOTHING GOOD FOR. The writer returns to the sentiment expressed already (Ecclesiastes Now because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil ( Ecclesiastes 8:11 ). This certainly ties back to the previous two subsections, where we were told that wisdom is a defense that gives life and that it strengthens those who have it (Ecclesiastes 7:11-12 Ecclesiastes 7:11-12 [11] Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun. This is added as another evidence of man's misery. All this have I seen, and applied my heart unto every work that is done under the sun: there is a time wherein one man rules over another to his own hurt. CHARACTERS: God, Solomon. Product Identifiers And who knoweth the interpretation of a thing? That is because people end up sitting on death row for decades. CONTENTS: Wisdom recommended as an antidote against the temptations He would have us not to fret and perplex ourselves about it, or make ourselves uneasy, but cheerfully to enjoy what God has given us in the world, to be content with it and make the best of it, though it be much better with others, and such as we think very unworthy (Ecclesiastes 8:15; Ecclesiastes 8:15): Then I commended joy, a holy security and serenity of mind, arising from a confidence in God, and his power, providence, and promise, because a man has no better thing under the sun (though a good man has much better things above the sun) than to eat and drink, that is, soberly and thankfully to make use of the things of this life according as his rank is, and to be cheerful, whatever happens, for that shall abide with him of his labour. The second part of verse 3 says, Do not take your stand for an evil thing, for he [the king] does whatever pleases him. The phrase translated evil thing could mean bad thing in a more general sense. American King James Version, Ecclesiastes 7:19 Ecclesiastes 7:19Wisdom strengthens the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city.American King James Version). That shall abide with him during the days of his life which God gives him under the sun. ECCLESIASTES 8:14, it is best to give a man's self up to eating and THE PROBLEM OF THE in whatsoever state condition men are; serenity and tranquillity of For in the multitude of dreams and many words there are also divers vanities: but fear you God. [12] For wisdom is a defense, and money is a defense: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom gives life to them that have it. (9 sessions) This study is part of the LifeLight Bible study series of in-depth studies of Bible books. It seems that this lack of punishment encourages people to sin (11-12a). (see NOTE TO PROVERBS below) It is the and is not the language of an epicure, or a carnal man, who And one ruling another to that ones own hurt here is evidently a mistranslation. But in context the wording appears to continue the warning about not getting into trouble with the government. let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die.American King James Version, where Paul used these words negatively, as in Isaiah 22:13 Isaiah 22:13And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh, and drinking wine: let us eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die.American King James Version, of those who did not believe in a resurrection and hoped only in this life.] and vexations arising from the vanity of the world. which God giveth him under the sun; man's present life is under the sun, and is continued as long as it pleases God; though it is but short, rather to be counted by days than years, and is a laborious one; and all that he gets by his labour, enjoyed by him, is to eat and drink cheerfully; and this he may expect to have and continue with him as long as he lives, even food and raiment, and with this he should be content. This joy will make labor more enjoyable. Wisdom can enable a person to avoid the kings wrath (Ecclesiastes 8:2-9), but it cannot enable him or her to understand fully why God deals with people as He does (Ecclesiastes 8:10-17). He's giving you chance after chance after chance. Solomon's pencil. serving the king, followed by a number Ecclesiastes 7:19-8 21st Century King James Version. No fault is to be found with God; but, as to the world, This is vanity upon the earth, and again, This is also vanity, that is, it is a certain evidence that the things of this world are not the best things nor were ever designed to make a portion and happiness for us, for, if they had, God would not have allotted so much of this world's wealth to his worst enemies and so much of its troubles to his best friends; there must therefore be another life after this the joys and griefs of which must be real and substantial, and able to make men truly happy or truly miserable, for this world does neither. 1-17. Concerning this Solomon here gives us his advice. HIM IN HIS TOILS THROUGHOUT THE DAYS OF HIS LIFE WHICH GOD HA 14-17 Faith alone can establish the heart in this mixed scene, where And it's probably true. Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the misery of man is great upon him. It doesn't matter to God that I cheat. That it was all labour in vain, Ecclesiastes 8:17; Ecclesiastes 8:17. Ecclesiastes 8 Commentary, this verse-by-verse commentary contain gems of information found nowhere outside the ancient Jewish writings . Ecclesiastes 8:15 NIV - So I commend the enjoyment of life, - Bible Gateway Read the Bible Reading Plans Advanced Search Available Versions Audio Bibles Study Tools Scripture Engagement More Resources Explore More Newsletters Devotionals Bible Gateway App Bible Audio App Bible Gateway Blog Bible Gateway Plus Store Bibles Deals More Passage Matthew Henry Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary - Ecclesiastes 10:4-11. experience of a THEN I COMMENDED MIRTH,. Innocent mirth, a cheerfulness of spirit forgotten, the wicked enjoy honour and long life; the best thing a man man, for men to be easy under every providence, satisfied with All rights reserved. Some see it as a worthless cause, calamitous outcome or anything the king would not like. However, some take visiting the holy place here as having occurred repeatedly during the life of the wicked people now being buried. People should not despair over these problems, but rather enjoy whatever God has given them in life (15). Viewed by itself, and apart from its conte ECCLESIASTESNOTE ON ECCLESIASTES 8:14 It is a puzzling VANITY that Benson Commentary Ecclesiastes 8:14-15. He is instead, in great mercy, giving everyone more time to repentand He is letting us see how far we will drift without His intervention. No man has any power over the spirit. The place of holiness to which they had come and gone is not clear. When the Pharaoh of the Exodus saw there was respite, he hardened his heart. Let us be ever thankful for the days of our lives. He believed, even when there was no evidence for believing! (quoted on p. 135). (8 studies) Ecclesiastes Study Guide Ecclesiastes Chart Scans (studies 1-8) Click to for the Mp3's corresponding to each study another world. Still, we must not treat God flippantly or carelessly. A righteous man has prospered; an unrighteous man has prospered. This is not speaking of understanding that there will be a future judgment from God, though that is mentioned later in chapter 8. Sinners herein deceive themselves. His rule must be righteous, though this is often not seen Partner with StudyLight.org as God uses us to make a difference for those displaced by Russia's war on Ukraine. [19] Wisdom strengthens the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city. Ecclesiastes 8:14-15 meaning Although life is mysterious, Solomon has discovered by submitting to the God of Mystery, rather than trying to make sense of the world through human experience, he can enjoy and appreciate the best life has to offer. The Preacher is careful to set forth pleasure as a gift from God, to be earned by labor, and received with thankfulness to the Giver, and to be accounted for to Him. [9] Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection to the Father of spirits, and live? The Preaching the Word commentary notes: Usually the Preacher tells us what he saw, but this time he chooses a different verb and tells us something that he knows. This is not something that he has seen from a distance, but something he has grasped with the rational conviction of his own mind. "There is no man that hath power, etc." ( Ecclesiastes 8:8 ). And thus, it appears that the evil man is getting away with his evil actions, his evil deeds. The sentiment of this verse is a frequent conclusion of the writers personal experience (compare marginal references), and is unfairly charged with Epicureanism. But it shall not be well with the wicked ( Ecclesiastes 8:13 ), In the end God's judgment will come. equally puzzling that the RIGHTEOUS sometimes receive the treatmen CRITICAL NOTES. sun, than (n) to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall Furthermore, the verses in chapter 8 do not seem to speak of human government rectifying problems so much as of us taking care to not run afoul of government (we will see similar verses in this regard in chapter 10). It's emptiness. Recall that this comes on the heels of Solomon presenting humanity as corrupt in chapter 7. Things happen to both good and evil men. Jesus made clear that we are to fear not mere human beings who can take only our immediate lives but to fear Him who is able to remove us from existence forever (Matthew 10:28 Matthew 10:28And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.American King James Version; Luke 12:4-5 Luke 12:4-5 [4] And I say to you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. Ecclesiastes/Song of Solomon - Leaders Guide. heads and be cheerful, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God in Others see ruach here as meaning wind, and take the statement to mean that just as the wind is beyond our control, so is death. So I know that in the long run that life is the best. He hasn't come and He's not going to come. 1. the WICKED appear to escape judgment and receive blessings. He would not have us try to give a reason for what God does. God does know. fearing God, enjoyment through God commended. Honor all men. Cool, courteous, self-possessed, they bear good news or bad, prosperous or adverse fortune, with a proud equanimity. This equal mind, expressing itself in a grave dignified bearing, is, with them, well-nigh indispensable to success in, public life. ECCLESIASTES 8:14. Salem Media Group. _ 1. Thinks that he has been clever and has hid his sin from God, or worse yet, thinks that God is condoning what he has done. Yes, there is vanity under the sun. He maintains his patience, moreover, in spite of the moral burdens he carries that might otherwise cause him to act impetuously (v. 6b; for the trouble of humanity is heavy upon him [and he wants to do something about it]) (Garrett, note on verses 2-6). This is because the instruction referred to obeying the king in general, whoever he wasor to obeying whatever human authority was in power. And they give their hearts and their lives over to evil to live an evil life. better H2896 sun H8121 eat H398 (H8800) drink H8354 (H8800) merry Or it could be that all the men of Israel took an oath as part of the nations military. Koheleth seems to have had a suspicion all the time that his view of life was a low one. Ecclesiastes 8:15 teaches us to be joyful in all circumstances. Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Sutcliffe's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments Ecclesiastes 8:1. And, as the end of verse 1 tells us, this wisdom can dispel the gloom and brighten mans otherwise hard looks (Walter Kaiser, Ecclesiastes: Total Life, p. 89). 3:22 ) ( 5:18 ) ; Verse 14 repeats the dilemma of Ecclesiastes 7:15 Ecclesiastes 7:15All things have I seen in the days of my vanity: there is a just man that perishes in his righteousness, and there is a wicked man that prolongs his life in his wickedness.American King James Versionthe righteous suffering what wickedness is supposed to result in and the wicked receiving what righteousness is supposed to result in. I say, "Keep the king's commandment for the sake of your oath to God. As has been pointed out before, some take a low view of the refrain. Honor the king (1 Peter 2:17 1 Peter 2:17Honor all men. We then come to Ecclesiastes 8:9 Ecclesiastes 8:9All this have I seen, and applied my heart to every work that is done under the sun: there is a time wherein one man rules over another to his own hurt.American King James Version. Instead, somewhat surprisingly, he urges us to enjoy life: to eat, drink, and be merry. Perhaps the locale of a funeral was intendedor, as some suggest, the holy city of Jerusalem. Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. Moreover, rarely has human government been righteous. Ecclesiastes 8:10 i _Then I commended mirth_ As before in chs. Ecclesiastes 1:15:: King James Version (KJV) Ecclesiastes 1:15 - That which is crooked H5791 cannot H3201 be made straight: H8626 and that which is wanting H2642 cannot H3201 be numbered. Still, the language resembles the skeptical precept (1Co 15:32), introduced only to be refuted; and "abide" is too strong language, perhaps, for a religious man to apply to "eating" and "mirth.". Because I'm still blessed and I'm prosperous. Fear of the Lord is to depart from evil. We must keep in due subjection to the government God has set over us (v. 2-5). In Solomon's reign the people were very rich, and lived in prosperity, which perhaps made them proud and petulant, and when the taxes were high, though they had enough to pay them with, it is probable that many conducted themselves . But because God doesn't judge immediately, because the sentence of God isn't executed speedily, because God is giving you opportunity to turn, God is giving you opportunity to repent, God is giving you the opportunity to come out of your sin and to be saved and He's very patient with you. He's very long-suffering. If one does not know what will happen, how can he learn when it will happen? 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[email protected]. If, for example, people work in the kings palace, they will do what the king says, partly because they have sworn before God to be obedient and partly because they will be punished if they disobey. The Hebrew word is applied not only to the pleasures arising from the physical senses, but also frequently to religious joy. His reply is not an observation, but the answer of faith. He believes what he cannot seethat one day all will be well for everyone who lives in the fear of God (Ryken, p. 196). To live a God-fearing life is to live in constant awareness of the presence of God, who is even closer than a prayer away (pp. Recall that chapter 5 was the first instance of direct exhortations in the booktelling us to be careful in our approach in coming to worship God, the One in whose hands our lives are and who can help us through the present difficulties. The mention of an oath to God may bring to mind the need to follow through on vows to God in Ecclesiastes 5. Where the word of the king is, there is power: and who may say unto him, What are you doing? The apostle Peter likewise tells us to be careful regarding both divine and human authority: Fear God. The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot. [Compare 1 Corinthians 15:32 1 Corinthians 15:32If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantages it me, if the dead rise not? 5: oritur sol et occidit et ad locum suum revertitur ibique renascens. I see life moving on. We see the just troubled and perplexed in their own minds, the wicked easy, fearless, and secure,--the just crossed and afflicted by the divine Providence, the wicked prosperous, successful, and smiled upon,--the just, censured, reproached, and run down, by the higher powers, the wicked applauded and preferred. Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than, For that shall abide with him of his labor, and that this should accompany him in his labor, Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers, Keil and Delitzsch Biblical Commentary on the Old Testament. God doesn't really know." Wisdom strengthens the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city. his labour, enjoyed by him, is to eat and drink cheerfully; and ( Ecclesiastes 8:5-7 ). [29] For our God is a consuming fire. It doesn't matter to God that I lie or I steal or whatever because look, I'm blessed. Ecclesiastes 8:11. The only one who really did exercise that kind of power over his spirit was Jesus Christ. The wise man is able to interpret all this in a proper framework, gaining a vital sense of what God is working out despite not being able to grasp the reasons for all the challenging details. And people begin to misinterpret God's grace and God's long suffering as God's approbation for their actions and for their lives. But in the passage here we need to understand that God is the One who is not bringing His justice right away. The beginning of verse 8 says that no one can retain the spirit in the day of death. And so I saw the wicked buried, who had come and gone from the place of the holy, and they were forgotten in the city where they had so done: this is also vanity ( Ecclesiastes 8:9-10 ). The point seems to be that if the king puts you to death for rebellion or crime, life is over. i. But the person who fears God knows that God is always near. Thus the Preacher warns against a capricious desertion of ones post (cf. [8] But if you be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are you bastards, and not sons. 1. Hebrew word is applied not only to the pleasures arising from the Keeping this in mind results in a deep and abiding reverence for Godloving and trusting Him while recognizing His supreme power and holiness (see Hebrews 12:28-29 Hebrews 12:28-29 [28] Why we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth _There is a vanity which is done upon the earth_ Either by wicked These seeming anomalies in the moral government of God are part of I. 3. Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun. Who is as the wise man? The words There is are in italics in the NKJV, showing theyve been added to the original wordingunnecessarily in this case. When I applied mine heart to know wisdom, and to see the business that is done upon the earth: (for also there is that neither day nor night seeth sleep with his eyes:) Then I beheld all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because though a man labor to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea farther; though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it ( Ecclesiastes 8:16-17 ). seventh chapter, to which they evidently belong. "I'm a prosperous cheat, so God is condoning my cheating. This is not some kind of terror of God, but a profound respect that does include, as with children who love their caring parents, a healthy fear of disappointing and, yes, incurring judgment, recalling that God chastens every son He loves (Hebrews 12:5-11 Hebrews 12:5-11 [5] And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to children, My son, despise not you the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when you are rebuked of him: EAT, AND TO DRINK, AND TO BE MERRY. If the spirit of the ruler rise up against you, leave not your place; for yielding pacifies great offenses. We'll send you an email with steps on how to reset your password. His estimate of the pleasures of the senses is recorded in Ecclesiastes 7:2-6. Who is as the wise man? and who knows the interpretation of a thing? Copyright 2023, Bible Study Tools. 3. We_ have here an image which will not disgrace Though a man be ever so industrious, thou he labour to seek it out. We must get ready for sudden evils, and especially for sudden death (v. 6-8). The preacher begins this chapter with the praise of wisdom, from its excellency and usefulness, Ecclesiastes 8:1; and advises men, if they would live quietly and comfortably, to honour and obey the king that rules over them, and not be rebellious against him, since he has great power and authority . the righteous often suffer, and the wicked prosper. To report dead links, typos, or html errors or suggestions about making these resources more useful use the convenient, International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. Ecclesiastes 8:15 "Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun." King James Version (KJV) < Previous Verse Next Verse > View Chapter Ecclesiastes 8:15 Context He would have us to take occasion hence, not to charge God with iniquity, but to charge the world with vanity. IV. But Peter said, "God isn't slack concerning His promises, as some men count slackness, but He's faithful to usward. Then, besides the perspective we need to have and the righteous life we are to persist in, we are again given the prescription of the books refrain in the third major sections conclusionthe enjoyment of life that God blesses us with: to eat, drink, and be merry (Ecclesiastes 8:15 Ecclesiastes 8:15Then I commended mirth, because a man has no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labor the days of his life, which God gives him under the sun.American King James Version). American King James Version; and read all of this psalm). Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Summarized Bible Commentary CONTENTS: Wisdom recommended as an antidote against the temptations and vexations arising from the vanity of the world. He doesn't strike immediately, but oftentimes forestalls judgment for months, for years. Death is ultimately in the power of God but is also in the kings hands (NAC, note on verses 7-8). . [29] See, this only have I found, that God has made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions. God's purpose must be We must always remember just who we are dealing withand the awesome gravity of thatrealizing that this is for our ultimate good. So, "Though a sinner do evil a hundred times, and his days be prolonged,". Men hardened in sin, because not presently punished; but they shall not escape, but it shall go ill with them, Ecclesiastes 8:11-13; as it doth also sometimes with the righteous, whilst the wicked prosper, Ecclesiastes 8:14. H8055 (H8800) remain H3867 (H8799) labor H5999 days H3117 life H241 CHAPTER 8 ADVICE WITH REGARD TO SERVING THE KING. Notice that the Preacher is giving us a God-centered perspective and that in verse 15 he is talking about the days of our life as a gift from God. Be discreet in relation with a ruler. [22] For oftentimes also your own heart knows that you yourself likewise have cursed others. _Who is as the wise man; and who knoweth the Help for Today, Hope for Tomorrow| Learn more With a UCG.org account you will be able to save items to read and study later! [27] Behold, this have I found, said the preacher, counting one by one, to find out the account: But he does not dwell on that. You see, the real delay in the return of Jesus Christ is just God's unwillingness that men should perish. In this division, dealing with the evidences of the vanity of life, Eat, and to drink, and to be merry.The three words occur together 1Kings 4:20. abideHebrew, "adhere"; not for ever, but it is the only sure good to be enjoyed from earthly labors (equivalent to "of his labor the days of his life"). Under the sun, man, life is just very shallow and you live life in a very shallow level, and. We should receive each days joys as Gods good gifts and rejoice in them. Solomon commended joy, and holy security of mind, arising from confidence in God, because a man has no better thing under the sun, though a good man has much better things above the sun, than soberly and thankfully to use the things of this life according to his rank. ". It doesn't matter to God that I'm living an immoral life, because look at all that I have." Mirth - Better, Gladness, or joy (as in Ecclesiastes 2:10). Ecclesiastes 3:12; Ecclesiastes 3:22; Ecclesiastes 5:18, the Epicurean It's because they are misinterpreting the patience of God waiting for men to be saved, because God is not willing that any should perish. [17] Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end. There is no man that has power over his spirit to retain the spirit; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that are given to it ( Ecclesiastes 8:8 ). Notice as well that he mentions joy twice in this verse and describes it as something we can experience all through life. The conclusion (Ecclesiastes 8:14) speaks in the person of the libertine, representing the objections of This is the perspective that must be maintainedalong with understanding what the future will bring. 16 When I applied mine heart to know wisdom, and to see the business that is done upon the earth: (for also there is that neither day nor night seeth sleep with his eyes:) 17 Then I beheld all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because though a man labour to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea further; though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it. 4: generatio praeterit et generatio advenit terra vero in aeternum stat. reason to be thankful for what they had, and to lift up their Ecclesiastes 8:1. 196-197). of
You can't escape it. Chapter 8 is similar. Be not hasty to go out of his sight: stand not in an evil thing; for he doeth whatsoever pleaseth him. shall be changed. Life under the sun. Paul said, "Who are you to say unto Him that has created you, 'Why hast Thou made me thus?'" The end of verse 5 and verse 6 say that a wise mans heart discerns time and judgmentor what decision to make and when. The wicked go unpunished and, even when they are dead and buried, people still praise them for their achievements in life (9-10). It is It will help us through the quandary that still remains for this age. One of the common mistakes that people make is that of misinterpreting the nature of God. Who makes this observation? When we look upon all the works of God and his providence, and compare one part with another, we cannot find that there is any such certain method by which the work that is done under the sun is directed; we cannot discover any key by which to decipher the character, nor by consulting precedents can we know the practice of this court, nor what the judgment will be. eat, and to That's a fatal mistake to make. Might as well enjoy what you got now, because man, it's going to be tough later. Most people, including many Christians, go through life hardly realizing that they are constantly in the presence of God. The NIV renders the phrase in verses 5 and 6 as proper time and procedure. The New American Commentary notes: The wise man thus waits for the proper moment to make his case or take a stand and does not waste his influence on a lost cause (v. 3b). Yet that is only for now. DEATH OF THE WICKED. You can't really come to the king and say, "Hey, what are you doing?" Others had likewise set themselves to make this enquiry with so close an application that they could not find time for sleep, either day or night, nor find in their hearts to sleep, so full of anxiety were they about these things. Commentary, explanation and study verse by verse. Solomon next mentions seeing the wicked buried (verse 10). The sentiment CHAPTER 8 As the same commentary notes: Somesay that the Preacher is simply making the best of a bad situation, that Solomon is a cynic. 3. Be the first to review this product. and who knows the interpretation of a thing? John Gill's Exposition of the Bible. common term of life, they might be thought to live; or if they prolong their days in wickedness, as sometimes they do, Ecclesiastes 7:15; yet their days at longest are but a shadow which declines, and is . He's very patient. Therefore, consider ye actually this time as God's patience in order that men might be saved. . American King James Version). THE BENEFITS OF WHOLESOME RECREATION Of course, it is true that human government has been established by God as a check against total lawlessness, as the apostle Paul explains in Romans 13. Just as there is no escape from a battle, so there is no guaranteed success to wrongdoers (6-8).Often there appears to be no principle of justice at work in the world. That Jesus isn't coming again. interpretation of a thing?_ In the Vulgate these two questions end the which God giveth him under the sun; man's present life is under the sun, and is continued as long as it pleases God; though it is but short, rather to be counted by days than years, and is a laborious one; and all that he gets by his labour, enjoyed by him, is to eat and drink cheerfully; and this he may expect to have and continue with him as long as he lives, even food and raiment, and with this he should be content. God does see. Let us pray that we may view eternal things as near, real, and all-important. 1. [21] Also take no heed to all words that are spoken; lest you hear your servant curse you: But this is not where things end. We must arm ourselves against the temptation of an oppressive government and not think it strange (v. 9, 10). because a man hath no better thing under the sun than to (Note: Vid., Baer in Abodath Jisrael, p. What else had he seen? A righteous man gets cancer; an unrighteous man gets cancer. Sermon Bible Commentary Ecclesiastes 8:1-15. We must keep in due subjection to the government God has set over us ( v. 2-5 ). That improves our situation in life and keeps us from ways that would make things worse for ourselves. 6 Or possibly the reference is to a general promise to obey God, with this including the requirement of following Israels divinely appointed kingor maybe even any nations ruler, since, as Paul later points out in Romans 13, all governing authorities are in power because of God and are to be obeyedexcept when there is a conflict with Gods law, which must come first (Acts 5:29 Acts 5:29Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.American King James Version). Ecclesiastes 8:14-15 Solomon reminds us that, as life falls out for us, we frequently do not understand it. The Tyndale commentary notes: To his hurt (Heb[rew]) is not to his own hurt (AV [Authorized or KJV]) but to the hurt of the one under the abuser of power (note on verse 9). And let us truly rejoice. But he also knows that often the opposite is true (14). and cheerfully, with moderation and thankfulness, to enjoy what element of thought mingles with the higher fear of God, to which th FOR THAT SHALL ABIDE WITH HIM OF HIS LABOUR _And this shall borrow The dead would not have been taken to the temple, for that would have been ceremonially defiling. And people begin to misinterpret the long-suffering of God. In the midst of a miscarriage, a failed friendship, or job loss, the preacher would remind us that 'there is a time for. Nor does it mean that the person will be afforded protection by the government, though he or she well may, as all do to some extent. His survey now digresses to consider a wise man's responsibility when One aspect of God's nature is His tremendous patience with rebelling man. Yet this is with the realization that God loves us and wants the best for us. he asks. PrivacyPolicyTerms ofUse. It may seem unfair because the evil are prospered and the righteous are persecuted. He said, "Okay, you can go now." verba Ecclesiastes filii David regis Hierusalem. Innocent mirth, a cheerfulness of spirit in whatsoever state [2.] The Searcher is King Solomon, who records for us a faithful, objective and relevant report of what he found in this extensive search which took years of his life. No man hath power over the spirit That is, over the soul of man; to retain the spirit To keep it in the body beyond the time which God hath allotted to it. What happens to one happens to the other. Some think Solomon speaks of himself, that he was so eager in prosecuting this great enquiry that he could not sleep for thinking of it. But He is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" ( 2 Peter 3:9 ). Because He doesn't execute His sentence speedily, because He doesn't immediately come down to the fist of judgment upon a man, a man many times thinks he's getting away with his evil. Yet His intervention and judgment will ultimately come. Ecclesiastes 2:14; So, again, the problems of human government must be navigated with wisdom and righteousness to improve life where possible and to avoid making matters worse than they already are. In view of these contradictions, Solomon again recommended the enjoyment of life, not in a pleasure-mad way but in the sense of enjoying the fruits of ones labor (cf. To go from someones presence elsewhere signifies disaffection or disloyalty . 15 Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun. thankfulness for what they have, and a free and comfortable use $15.99 As low as $8.00. Now in chapter 8, Solomon tells us to exercise wisdom and righteousness to help reduce and manage problems in many cases, maintain proper perspective and find joy in life and ultimate reward from God. drinking, and all manner of carnal deli Ecclesiastes 8:15 commended H7623 (H8765) enjoyment H8057 man H120 There is no specific reference to the government being righteous here, and the verses appear to end with the problem of human rule doing harm (verse 9), which we will return to. Verse 12 seems to support the past perpetuation of the wicked as the frustration, as it mentions the sinners days being prolonged. Work even when one cannot understand the working of God. Verse 15. Ecclesiastes 3:12; Ecclesiastes 3:13; Ecclesiastes 3:22; Ecclesiastes United Church of Godis a501(c)3organization. But it is tragic when people misinterpret God's patience and God's kindness. The first part of Ecclesiastes 8:3 Ecclesiastes 8:3Be not hasty to go out of his sight: stand not in an evil thing; for he does whatever pleases him.American King James Versiontells us not to be quick to leave the ruler. Section 5. CONCLUSION: Heavenly wisdom makes a man a good man,. This would also seem to tie in to the warning against turning to wickedness at the end of Ecclesiastes 8:8 Ecclesiastes 8:8There is no man that has power over the spirit to retain the spirit; neither has he power in the day of death: and there is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that are given to it.American King James Version. And the same is true of God. Nay, [3.] ASV 2: vanitas vanitatum dixit Ecclesiastes vanitas vanitatum omnia vanitas. There is a vanity which is done upon the earth Either by wicked potentates, who do commonly advance unworthy men, and oppress persons of the greatest virtue and merit: or, by God's providence, who sees it fit for many weighty reasons so to manage the affairs of the present world. Benefits of wisdom, respecting government and
There is no man that has power over his spirit to retain the spirit; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that are given to it ( Ecclesiastes 8:8 ). The next set of verses concerns following kingly authorityhuman governmentas a matter of life and death (verses 2-9). Though he be very confident of success, though he think to know it, yet he shall not; he cannot find it out. potentates, who do commonly advance unworthy men, and oppress persons (Needing to give such instruction without any self-serving appearance could be part of why Solomon referred to himself as the Preacher throughout the book rather than as king.). California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. man's present life is under the sun, and is continued as long as it pleases god; though it is but short, rather to be counted by days than years, and is a laborious one; and all that he gets by his labour, enjoyed by him, is to eat and drink cheerfully; and this he may expect to have and continue with him as long as he lives, even food American King James Versiona). Then I commended mirth, because a man has no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labor the days of his life, which God gives him under the sun. this he may expect to have and continue with him as long as he I commend joy, he says (Ecclesiastes 8:15 Ecclesiastes 8:15Then I commended mirth, because a man has no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labor the days of his life, which God gives him under the sun.American King James Version), and the word he uses for commend is a Hebrew word for praise (shabach). A good man's days have some substance; he lives to a good purpose: a wicked man's days are all as a shadow, empty and worthless. Life is empty. Solomon in Proverbs 10:7 Proverbs 10:7The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.American King James Versionwrote, The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot. Perhaps the frustration in Ecclesiastes 8:10 Ecclesiastes 8:10And so I saw the wicked buried, who had come and gone from the place of the holy, and they were forgotten in the city where they had so done: this is also vanity.American King James Versionis simply that the wicked were able to die and receive a proper burial after a long life without having to face up to what theyd doneall the while having been permitted in life to be regularly in Gods temple, a sacrilege and mockery of religion. Who knows anything? Mirth therefore, and a contented enjoyment of God's gifts, preferable to immoderate care and search, Ecclesiastes 8:15. the preacher sets forth certain deductions. a man's wisdom makes his face to shine, and the boldness of his face shall be changed.American King James Version;with the previous subsection, but it rather seems to be in answer to all the previous dilemma, ending with the bleak, sinful condition of man at the end of the last chapter. God will judge. Ecclesiastes 8:14-17 II. The Targum interprets it of the joy of the law; because a man hath no better thing under the sun than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry; of earthly things there is nothing better than for a man freely and cheerfully, with moderation and thankfulness, to enjoy what God has given him; this is what had been observed before, Ecclesiastes 2:24; and is not the language of an epicure, or a carnal man, who observing that no difference is made between the righteous and the wicked, that it is as well or better with the wicked than the righteous, determines to give up himself to sensual lusts and pleasures; but it is the good and wholesome advice of the wise man, for men to be easy under every providence, satisfied with their present condition and circumstances, and be cheerful and pleasant, and not distress themselves about things they cannot alter; for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life. And He died. 2. 39.). This he speaks, either, physical senses, but also frequently to religious joy. But this wording requires a text emendation. God's not willing that any should perish but that all should come into repentance. The New American Commentary quotes an alternate translation of the verse: All this I have seen and have given attention to every deed done under the sun while man rules men to their hurt. This is the terrible human condition of today. For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be? . Wise and good men have, of old, been perplexed with this difficulty, how the prosperity of the wicked and the troubles of the righteous can be reconciled with the holiness and goodness of the God that governs the world. it pleases God; though it is but short, rather to be counted by Wisdom helps people see the underlying meaning of things and teaches them that to act with pleasantness is better than to act with harshness (8:1). Dr. Walter Kaiser, whose overall outline weve been following, describes the chapter 8 subsection as follows: The removal of a large proportion of the apparent inequalities in divine providence comes from righteous government. This summary, however, does not appear to be quite accurate. They should not spend weary days and sleepless nights puzzling over problems to which only God knows the answer (16-17). MIRTH - Better, Gladness, or joy (as in Ecclesiastes 2:10). [6] For whom the Lord loves he chastens, and whips every son whom he receives. We must get ready for sudden evils, and especially for sudden death ( v. 6-8 ). life was a low one. being much better than to fret at the prosperity of the wicked, But if they find the kings command unreasonable, wisdom will show them a way out. The In the person of a sensual man. TEXT 8:14-17 The question in Ecclesiastes isn't about the existence of God; the author is no atheist, and God is always there. Some put Ecclesiastes 8:1 Ecclesiastes 8:1Who is as the wise man? Then I commended mirth These are some more of the cavils of the infidel objector: "Since virtue is frequently under oppression, and vice triumphs in health, and rolls in wealth, I see plainly that we should not trouble ourselves about future things; and therefore should be governed by the maxim EDE, BIBE, LUDE. The wicked will not ultimately be prolonged, yet the righteous will. Verse 15. Do not be hasty to go from his presence. No power in death. [1.] A man's wisdom maketh his face to shine, and the boldness of his face shall be changed. "But it shall not be well with the wicked.". the wicked, that it is as well or better with the wicked than the Add to Wish List Add to Compare. a man's wisdom makes his face to shine, and the boldness of his face shall be changed. And this is further tied back to the warning in Ecclesiastes7:17: Do not be overly wicked, nor be foolish: Why should you die before your time? A turn to lawlessness will not stave off the punishment of death. [26] And I find more bitter than death the woman, whose heart is snares and nets, and her hands as bands: whoever pleases God shall escape from her; but the sinner shall be taken by her. Perhaps some type of pledge of allegiance to the king or kingdom among the general populace was customary at that time. the Book of Proverbs. When the time comes for you to die, you don't have any power over your spirit to retain it, to cause your spirit to remain. Same kind of experiences to both. It is good that you should take hold of this; yes, also from this withdraw not your hand: for he that fears God shall come forth of them all. Things just continue as they were from the beginning.'" 2 I counsel thee to keep the king's commandment, and that because of thy oath to God. drink, and to be merry; This present life must be reckoned by days; this life is given us, and the days of it are allotted to us, by the counsel of God, and therefore while it does last we must accommodate ourselves to the will of God and study to answer the ends of life. He is not out to destroy us but to save us, as Hes said time and again. and the seemingly unequal distribution of things in this world, Neither hath he power in the day of death Or, against the day, that is, to avoid, or delay that day; and there is no discharge As there is in other wars . THERE IS A VANITY WHICH IS DONE UPON THE EARTH.] For the time being we are subject to human rule. 8 Who is as the wise man? God's ways are above ours, nor is he tied to his own former ways, but his judgments are a great deep. That you might fear the LORD your God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command you, you, and your son, and your son's son, all the days of your life; and that your days may be prolonged. Drawing upon a variety of resourcesincluding commentaries, sermons, treatises, and confessionsmuch of which appears here for the first time in English, this volume provides resources for contemporary preachers, enables scholars to better understand the depth and breadth of Reformation commentary, and seeks to help readers find comfort in . Love the brotherhood. He would not have us undertake to give a reason for that which God does, for his way is in the sea and his path in the great waters, past finding out, and therefore we must be contentedly and piously ignorant of the meaning of God's proceedings in the government of the world, Ecclesiastes 8:16; Ecclesiastes 8:17. 5:18; Ecclesiastes 9:7 To be merry This he speaks of sensual delights. Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Adam Clarke Bible Commentary, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Albert Barnes' Bible Commentary, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Annotated Bible by A.C. Gaebelein, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Arthur Peake's Commentary on the Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Coke's Commentary on the Holy Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - College Press Bible Study Textbook Series, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Dummelow's Commentary on the Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - EasyEnglish Bible Commentaries, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Ellicott's Commentary On The Whole Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - ETCBC data on Hebrew bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Expositor's Bible Commentary (Nicoll), Ecclesiastes 8:15 - G. Campbell Morgan's Exposition on the Whole Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Geneva Study Bible Commentary, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - George Haydock's Catholic Bible Commentary, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Hawker's Poor man's commentary, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - John Darby's Synopsis, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - John Trapp Complete Commentary, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Joseph Bensons Commentary on the Old and New Testaments, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Kretzmann's Popular Commentary of the Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Mark Dunagan Commentaries, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Matthew Poole's Concise Commentary On The Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Patchworkid's Personal Study Bible Notes, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Peter Pett's Commentary on the Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Sermon Bible Commentary, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Summarized Bible Commentary, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Sutcliffe's Commentary on the Old and New Testaments, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - The Biblical Illustrator, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - The ESV Global Study Bible's Study Notes, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - The Preacher's Complete Homiletical Commentary, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - The Pulpit Commentaries, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Through The Bible C2000 Serie by Chuck Smith, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Treasury of Scripture Knowledge, Ecclesiastes 8:15 - Wesley's Explanatory Notes. And so I saw the wicked buried, who had come and gone from the place of the holy, and they were forgotten in the city where they had so done: this is also vanity. Rather, the meaning here is that the prudent, law-abiding citizen will receive no punishment from the governmentat least, generally speaking. I counsel thee to keep the king's commandmen 1 Timothy 4:3; 1 Timothy 4:4; 1 Timothy 6:17; Ecclesiastes 2:24; That all of the talk of the rapture of the church and the return of Jesus Christ is just piped dreams, a misinterpretation of scriptures. 14 THE ONE END OF RIGHTEOUSNESS AND UNRIGHTEOUSNESS. And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh, and drinking wine: let us eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die. But that does not seem to be the main point of these verses in Ecclesiastes 8. 14 There is a vanity which is done upon the earth; that there be just men, unto whom it happeneth according to the work of the wicked; again, there be wicked men, to whom it happeneth according to the work of the righteous: I said that this also is vanity. Ecclesiastes 8:15 KJ21 Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun than to eat and to drink and to be merry, for that shall abide with him from his labor the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun. Ecclesiastes 10:4 Ecclesiastes 10:4If the spirit of the ruler rise up against you, leave not your place; for yielding pacifies great offenses.American King James Version) and against persistence in any disloyalty (Eaton, Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries, note on Ecclesiastes 8:2-3 Ecclesiastes 8:2-3 [2] I counsel you to keep the king's commandment, and that in regard of the oath of God. This comes straight from other Scripture, God stating that it would be well for those who feared and obeyed Him, with their days prolonged (Deuteronomy 5:29 Deuteronomy 5:29O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!American King James Version; Deuteronomy 6:2 Deuteronomy 6:2That you might fear the LORD your God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command you, you, and your son, and your son's son, all the days of your life; and that your days may be prolonged.American King James Version, Deuteronomy 6:24 Deuteronomy 6:24And the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day.American King James Version). carried out. neither shall he prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he fears not before God. yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him ( Ecclesiastes 8:12 ): Now, in the end the best life is the life of fearing God, walking with God. What does Ecclesiastes 8:15 mean? [28] Which yet my soul seeks, but I find not: one man among a thousand have I found; but a woman among all those have I not found. The Preacher is growing more and more confident about this joy. and who knows the interpretation of a thing? submission to things as they are. Then I commended mirth man's wisdom makes his face to shine, and the boldness of his face I counsel thee to keep the king's commandment, and that in regard of the oath of God. God is exceedingly long-suffering. By any of these interpretations, many see here a statement about not being able to withstand the inevitability of death generally. righteous men to whom it happens ac Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the Whoso keeps the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a wise man's heart discerns both time and judgment. Ecclesiastes 8:8. There is no use in repining or rebelling; _true wisdom In fact, Solomon himself wrote elsewhere, The fear of the LORD prolongs days, but the years of the wicked will be shortened (Proverbs 10:27 Proverbs 10:27The fear of the LORD prolongs days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.American King James Version). Add To Cart. Item #: 203674. . pleasures; but it is the good and wholesome advice of the wise He saw just men to whom it happened according to the work of the wicked, who, notwithstanding their righteousness, suffered very hard things, and continued long to do so, as if they were to be punished for some great wickedness. When on the cross, it said, "He bowed his head and dismissed His Spirit" ( John 19:30 ). And thus, they give their hearts over to evil because they think that God is too remote to care. 3 Be not hasty to go out of his sight. abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God gi _No good for a man, &c. Some commentators think the wise man here There is futility which is done on the earth, that is, there are Thus wisdom here leads to proper caution and can sometimes result in influencing rulers toward positive change. Note that the obedience to the king is for the sake of your oath to God (same verse). Blue Letter Bible study tools make reading, searching and studying the Bible easy and rewarding. God puts up with so much. All this have I seen, and applied my heart to every work that is done under the sun: there is a time wherein one man rules over another to his own hurt. counsels obedience to the powers that be_,_ and submission to the of the greatest virtue and merit: or, by God's providence, who s "SO. Love the brotherhood. The message here is: Do your best to stay out of trouble! [20] For there is not a just man on earth, that does good, and sins not.
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