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Ecclesiastes 8

KJ3 Literal Translation — Chapter 8 of 12

1 Who is as the wise one? And who knows the interpretation of a thing? A man's wisdom makes his face shine, and by might his face is changed.

2 I say, Keep the king's mouth, even on the matter of the oath of God;

3 do not hasten to go from before him. Do not take a stand in an evil matter, for all that he pleases he does.

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Chapter Summary

Kings are greatly to be respected. It is better with the godly in adversity, than with the wicked ones in prosperity.

Key Hebrew Words

חׇכְמָה wisdom H2451 · TWOT 647a
מֶ֫לֶךְ king H4428 · TWOT 1199a
מִשְׁפָּט judgment H4941 · TWOT 2443c
רָשָׁע wicked one H7563 · TWOT 2222b
מִצְוָה commandment H4687 · TWOT 1887b
יָרֵא fear (God) H3372 · TWOT 907

People & Context

God

It goes well with those who fear before Him; He gives man life and labor under the sun, His work unsearchable (vv.12-13,15,17).

Timeline

Obedience to the King

A wise man is known by his shining face and must keep the king's commands due to the oath of God. The king's word holds unquestionable power.

Ecclesiastes 8:1-5
Human Limitations and Unavoidable Death

Although there is a proper time and judgment for everything, man's misery is great because he cannot predict what shall be. No human has the power to restrain the spirit.

Ecclesiastes 8:6-8
The Danger of Delayed Justice

Because sentences against evil works are not executed quickly, the hearts of men are emboldened to do evil, though ultimately it will only be well for those who fear God.

Ecclesiastes 8:9-13

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