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[[en:Ecclesiastes|Ecclesiastes]]
{{other versions|Ecclesiastes (Bible)}}
{{header

| title = [[Bible (King James)|The King James Bible]]
| author =
| section = [[Ecclesiastes]]
| previous = [[../Proverbs|Proverbs]]
| next = [[../Song_of_Solomon|The Song of Solomon]]
| notes =
}}
<div style="float:right">__TOC__</div>
==Chapter 1==
==Chapter 1==
{{chapter|1}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=1}} The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king of
Jerusalem.
Jerusalem.


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities;
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=2}} Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities;
all is vanity.
all is vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> What profit hath a man of all his labour which he taketh under
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=3}} What profit hath a man of all his labour which he taketh under
the sun?
the sun?


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> One generation passeth away, and another generation cometh:
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=4}} One generation passeth away, and another generation cometh:
but the earth abideth for ever.
but the earth abideth for ever.


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=5}} The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to
his place where he arose.
his place where he arose.


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> The wind goeth toward the south, and turneth about unto the
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=6}} The wind goeth toward the south, and turneth about unto the
north; it whirleth about continually, and the wind returneth
north; it whirleth about continually, and the wind returneth
again according to his circuits.
again according to his circuits.


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; unto
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=7}} All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; unto
the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return
the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return
again.
again.


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> All things are full of labour; man cannot utter it: the eye is
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=8}} All things are full of labour; man cannot utter it: the eye is
not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.
not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=9}} The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that
which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new
which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new
thing under the sun.
thing under the sun.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> Is there any thing whereof it may be said, See, this is new?
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=10}} Is there any thing whereof it may be said, See, this is new?
it hath been already of old time, which was before us.
it hath been already of old time, which was before us.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> There is no remembrance of former things; neither shall there
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=11}} There is no remembrance of former things; neither shall there
be any remembrance of things that are to come with those that
be any remembrance of things that are to come with those that
shall come after.
shall come after.


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> I the Preacher was king over Israel in Jerusalem.
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=12}} I the Preacher was king over Israel in Jerusalem.


<small><font color=#0000FF>13</font color></small> And I gave my heart to seek and search out by wisdom
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=13}} And I gave my heart to seek and search out by wisdom
concerning all things that are done under heaven: this sore
concerning all things that are done under heaven: this sore
travail hath God given to the sons of man to be exercised
travail hath God given to the sons of man to be exercised
therewith.
therewith.


<small><font color=#0000FF>14</font color></small> I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and,
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=14}} I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and,
behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit.
behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit.


<small><font color=#0000FF>15</font color></small> That which is crooked cannot be made straight: and that which
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=15}} That which is crooked cannot be made straight: and that which
is wanting cannot be numbered.
is wanting cannot be numbered.


<small><font color=#0000FF>16</font color></small> I communed with mine own heart, saying, Lo, I am come to great
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=16}} I communed with mine own heart, saying, Lo, I am come to great
estate, and have gotten more wisdom than all they that have
estate, and have gotten more wisdom than all they that have
been before me in Jerusalem: yea, my heart had great
been before me in Jerusalem: yea, my heart had great
experience of wisdom and knowledge.
experience of wisdom and knowledge.


<small><font color=#0000FF>17</font color></small> And I gave my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=17}} And I gave my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and
folly: I perceived that this also is vexation of spirit.
folly: I perceived that this also is vexation of spirit.


<small><font color=#0000FF>18</font color></small> For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth
{{verse|chapter=1|verse=18}} For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth
knowledge increaseth sorrow.
knowledge increaseth sorrow.


==Chapter 2==
==Chapter 2==
{{chapter|2}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will prove thee with mirth,
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=1}} I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will prove thee with mirth,
therefore enjoy pleasure: and, behold, this also is vanity.
therefore enjoy pleasure: and, behold, this also is vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> I said of laughter, It is mad: and of mirth, What doeth it?
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=2}} I said of laughter, It is mad: and of mirth, What doeth it?


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> I sought in mine heart to give myself unto wine, yet
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=3}} I sought in mine heart to give myself unto wine, yet
acquainting mine heart with wisdom; and to lay hold on folly,
acquainting mine heart with wisdom; and to lay hold on folly,
till I might see what was that good for the sons of men, which
till I might see what was that good for the sons of men, which
they should do under the heaven all the days of their life.
they should do under the heaven all the days of their life.


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> I made me great works; I builded me houses; I planted me
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=4}} I made me great works; I builded me houses; I planted me
vineyards:
vineyards:


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> I made me gardens and orchards, and I planted trees in them of
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=5}} I made me gardens and orchards, and I planted trees in them of
all kind of fruits:
all kind of fruits:


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> I made me pools of water, to water therewith the wood that
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=6}} I made me pools of water, to water therewith the wood that
bringeth forth trees:
bringeth forth trees:


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> I got me servants and maidens, and had servants born in my
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=7}} I got me servants and maidens, and had servants born in my
house; also I had great possessions of great and small cattle
house; also I had great possessions of great and small cattle
above all that were in Jerusalem before me:
above all that were in Jerusalem before me:


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> I gathered me also silver and gold, and the peculiar treasure
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=8}} I gathered me also silver and gold, and the peculiar treasure
of kings and of the provinces: I gat me men singers and women
of kings and of the provinces: I gat me men singers and women
singers, and the delights of the sons of men, as musical
singers, and the delights of the sons of men, as musical
instruments, and that of all sorts.
instruments, and that of all sorts.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> So I was great, and increased more than all that were before
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=9}} So I was great, and increased more than all that were before
me in Jerusalem: also my wisdom remained with me.
me in Jerusalem: also my wisdom remained with me.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> And whatsoever mine eyes desired I kept not from them, I
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=10}} And whatsoever mine eyes desired I kept not from them, I
withheld not my heart from any joy; for my heart rejoiced in
withheld not my heart from any joy; for my heart rejoiced in
all my labour: and this was my portion of all my labour.
all my labour: and this was my portion of all my labour.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=11}} Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and
on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was
on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was
vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under
vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under
the sun.
the sun.


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> And I turned myself to behold wisdom, and madness, and folly:
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=12}} And I turned myself to behold wisdom, and madness, and folly:
for what can the man do that cometh after the king? even that
for what can the man do that cometh after the king? even that
which hath been already done.
which hath been already done.


<small><font color=#0000FF>13</font color></small> Then I saw that wisdom excelleth folly, as far as light
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=13}} Then I saw that wisdom excelleth folly, as far as light
excelleth darkness.
excelleth darkness.


<small><font color=#0000FF>14</font color></small> The wise man's eyes are in his head; but the fool walketh in
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=14}} The wise man's eyes are in his head; but the fool walketh in
darkness: and I myself perceived also that one event happeneth
darkness: and I myself perceived also that one event happeneth
to them all.
to them all.


<small><font color=#0000FF>15</font color></small> Then said I in my heart, As it happeneth to the fool, so it
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=15}} Then said I in my heart, As it happeneth to the fool, so it
happeneth even to me; and why was I then more wise? Then I
happeneth even to me; and why was I then more wise? Then I
said in my heart, that this also is vanity.
said in my heart, that this also is vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>16</font color></small> For there is no remembrance of the wise more than of the fool
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=16}} For there is no remembrance of the wise more than of the fool
for ever; seeing that which now is in the days to come shall
for ever; seeing that which now is in the days to come shall
all be forgotten. And how dieth the wise man? as the fool.
all be forgotten. And how dieth the wise man? as the fool.


<small><font color=#0000FF>17</font color></small> Therefore I hated life; because the work that is wrought under
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=17}} Therefore I hated life; because the work that is wrought under
the sun is grievous unto me: for all is vanity and vexation of
the sun is grievous unto me: for all is vanity and vexation of
spirit.
spirit.


<small><font color=#0000FF>18</font color></small> Yea, I hated all my labour which I had taken under the sun:
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=18}} Yea, I hated all my labour which I had taken under the sun:
because I should leave it unto the man that shall be after me.
because I should leave it unto the man that shall be after me.


<small><font color=#0000FF>19</font color></small> And who knoweth whether he shall be a wise man or a fool? yet
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=19}} And who knoweth whether he shall be a wise man or a fool? yet
shall he have rule over all my labour wherein I have laboured,
shall he have rule over all my labour wherein I have laboured,
and wherein I have shewed myself wise under the sun. This is
and wherein I have shewed myself wise under the sun. This is
also vanity.
also vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>20</font color></small> Therefore I went about to cause my heart to despair of all the
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=20}} Therefore I went about to cause my heart to despair of all the
labour which I took under the sun.
labour which I took under the sun.


<small><font color=#0000FF>21</font color></small> For there is a man whose labour is in wisdom, and in
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=21}} For there is a man whose labour is in wisdom, and in
knowledge, and in equity; yet to a man that hath not laboured
knowledge, and in equity; yet to a man that hath not laboured
therein shall he leave it for his portion. This also is vanity
therein shall he leave it for his portion. This also is vanity
and a great evil.
and a great evil.


<small><font color=#0000FF>22</font color></small> For what hath man of all his labour, and of the vexation of
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=22}} For what hath man of all his labour, and of the vexation of
his heart, wherein he hath laboured under the sun?
his heart, wherein he hath laboured under the sun?


<small><font color=#0000FF>23</font color></small> For all his days are sorrows, and his travail grief; yea, his
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=23}} For all his days are sorrows, and his travail grief; yea, his
heart taketh not rest in the night. This is also vanity.
heart taketh not rest in the night. This is also vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>24</font color></small> There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=24}} There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and
drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his
drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his
labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.
labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.


<small><font color=#0000FF>25</font color></small> For who can eat, or who else can hasten hereunto, more than I?
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=25}} For who can eat, or who else can hasten hereunto, more than I?


<small><font color=#0000FF>26</font color></small> For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and
{{verse|chapter=2|verse=26}} For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and
knowledge, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth travail, to
knowledge, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth travail, to
gather and to heap up, that he may give to him that is good
gather and to heap up, that he may give to him that is good
Line 163: Line 173:


==Chapter 3==
==Chapter 3==
{{chapter|3}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=1}} To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose
under the heaven:
under the heaven:


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=2}} A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a
time to pluck up that which is planted;
time to pluck up that which is planted;


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=3}} A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and
a time to build up;
a time to build up;


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=4}} A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a
time to dance;
time to dance;


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=5}} A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones
together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from
together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from
embracing;
embracing;


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=6}} A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time
to cast away;
to cast away;


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=7}} A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and
a time to speak;
a time to speak;


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=8}} A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time
of peace.
of peace.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=9}} What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=10}} I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of
men to be exercised in it.
men to be exercised in it.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=11}} He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath
set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the
set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the
work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=12}} I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to
rejoice, and to do good in his life.
rejoice, and to do good in his life.


<small><font color=#0000FF>13</font color></small> And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=13}} And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the
good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.
good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.


<small><font color=#0000FF>14</font color></small> I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever:
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=14}} I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever:
nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God
nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God
doeth it, that men should fear before him.
doeth it, that men should fear before him.


<small><font color=#0000FF>15</font color></small> That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=15}} That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath
already been; and God requireth that which is past.
already been; and God requireth that which is past.


<small><font color=#0000FF>16</font color></small> And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=16}} And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that
wickedness was there; and the place of righteousness, that
wickedness was there; and the place of righteousness, that
iniquity was there.
iniquity was there.


<small><font color=#0000FF>17</font color></small> I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=17}} I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the
wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for
wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for
every work.
every work.


<small><font color=#0000FF>18</font color></small> I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men,
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=18}} I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men,
that God might manifest them, and that they might see that
that God might manifest them, and that they might see that
they themselves are beasts.
they themselves are beasts.


<small><font color=#0000FF>19</font color></small> For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts;
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=19}} For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts;
even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the
even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the
other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no
other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no
preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity.
preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>20</font color></small> All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=20}} All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to
dust again.
dust again.


<small><font color=#0000FF>21</font color></small> Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=21}} Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the
spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?
spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?


<small><font color=#0000FF>22</font color></small> Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a
{{verse|chapter=3|verse=22}} Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a
man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion:
man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion:
for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?
for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?


==Chapter 4==
==Chapter 4==
{{chapter|4}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=1}} So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are
done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were
done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were
oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their
oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their
oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter.
oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter.


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead more than
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=2}} Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead more than
the living which are yet alive.
the living which are yet alive.


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> Yea, better is he than both they, which hath not yet been, who
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=3}} Yea, better is he than both they, which hath not yet been, who
hath not seen the evil work that is done under the sun.
hath not seen the evil work that is done under the sun.


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> Again, I considered all travail, and every right work, that
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=4}} Again, I considered all travail, and every right work, that
for this a man is envied of his neighbour. This is also vanity
for this a man is envied of his neighbour. This is also vanity
and vexation of spirit.
and vexation of spirit.


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> The fool foldeth his hands together, and eateth his own flesh.
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=5}} The fool foldeth his hands together, and eateth his own flesh.


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=6}} Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full
with travail and vexation of spirit.
with travail and vexation of spirit.


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun.
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=7}} Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun.


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> There is one alone, and there is not a second; yea, he hath
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=8}} There is one alone, and there is not a second; yea, he hath
neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his
neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his
labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither
labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither
Line 268: Line 280:
This is also vanity, yea, it is a sore travail.
This is also vanity, yea, it is a sore travail.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=9}} Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for
their labour.
their labour.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=10}} For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to
him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to
him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to
help him up.
help him up.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=11}} Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can
one be warm alone?
one be warm alone?


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=12}} And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a
threefold cord is not quickly broken.
threefold cord is not quickly broken.


<small><font color=#0000FF>13</font color></small> Better is a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=13}} Better is a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish
king, who will no more be admonished.
king, who will no more be admonished.


<small><font color=#0000FF>14</font color></small> For out of prison he cometh to reign; whereas also he that is
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=14}} For out of prison he cometh to reign; whereas also he that is
born in his kingdom becometh poor.
born in his kingdom becometh poor.


<small><font color=#0000FF>15</font color></small> I considered all the living which walk under the sun, with the
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=15}} I considered all the living which walk under the sun, with the
second child that shall stand up in his stead.
second child that shall stand up in his stead.


<small><font color=#0000FF>16</font color></small> There is no end of all the people, even of all that have been
{{verse|chapter=4|verse=16}} There is no end of all the people, even of all that have been
before them: they also that come after shall not rejoice in
before them: they also that come after shall not rejoice in
him. Surely this also is vanity and vexation of spirit.
him. Surely this also is vanity and vexation of spirit.


==Chapter 5==
==Chapter 5==
{{chapter|5}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=1}} Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more
ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they
ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they
consider not that they do evil.
consider not that they do evil.


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=2}} Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty
to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou
to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou
upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.
upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=3}} For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a
fool's voice is known by multitude of words.
fool's voice is known by multitude of words.


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=4}} When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he
hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed.
hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed.


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=5}} Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou
shouldest vow and not pay.
shouldest vow and not pay.


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=6}} Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say
thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should
thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should
God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine
God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine
hands?
hands?


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> For in the multitude of dreams and many words there are also
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=7}} For in the multitude of dreams and many words there are also
divers vanities: but fear thou God.
divers vanities: but fear thou God.


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=8}} If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent
perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not
perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not
at the matter: for he that is higher than the highest
at the matter: for he that is higher than the highest
regardeth; and there be higher than they.
regardeth; and there be higher than they.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> Moreover the profit of the earth is for all: the king himself
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=9}} Moreover the profit of the earth is for all: the king himself
is served by the field.
is served by the field.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=10}} He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor
he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.
he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=11}} When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and
what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding
what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding
of them with their eyes?
of them with their eyes?


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=12}} The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little
or much: but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to
or much: but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to
sleep.
sleep.


<small><font color=#0000FF>13</font color></small> There is a sore evil which I have seen under the sun, namely,
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=13}} There is a sore evil which I have seen under the sun, namely,
riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt.
riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt.


<small><font color=#0000FF>14</font color></small> But those riches perish by evil travail: and he begetteth a
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=14}} But those riches perish by evil travail: and he begetteth a
son, and there is nothing in his hand.
son, and there is nothing in his hand.


<small><font color=#0000FF>15</font color></small> As he came forth of his mother's womb, naked shall he return
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=15}} As he came forth of his mother's womb, naked shall he return
to go as he came, and shall take nothing of his labour, which
to go as he came, and shall take nothing of his labour, which
he may carry away in his hand.
he may carry away in his hand.


<small><font color=#0000FF>16</font color></small> And this also is a sore evil, that in all points as he came,
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=16}} And this also is a sore evil, that in all points as he came,
so shall he go: and what profit hath he that hath laboured for
so shall he go: and what profit hath he that hath laboured for
the wind?
the wind?


<small><font color=#0000FF>17</font color></small> All his days also he eateth in darkness, and he hath much
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=17}} All his days also he eateth in darkness, and he hath much
sorrow and wrath with his sickness.
sorrow and wrath with his sickness.


<small><font color=#0000FF>18</font color></small> Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=18}} Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one
to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour
to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour
that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which
that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which
God giveth him: for it is his portion.
God giveth him: for it is his portion.


<small><font color=#0000FF>19</font color></small> Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=19}} Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and
hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion,
hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion,
and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.
and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.


<small><font color=#0000FF>20</font color></small> For he shall not much remember the days of his life; because
{{verse|chapter=5|verse=20}} For he shall not much remember the days of his life; because
God answereth him in the joy of his heart.
God answereth him in the joy of his heart.


==Chapter 6==
==Chapter 6==
{{chapter|6}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, and it is
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=1}} There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, and it is
common among men:
common among men:


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=2}} A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so
that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth,
that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth,
yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger
yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger
eateth it: this is vanity, and it is an evil disease.
eateth it: this is vanity, and it is an evil disease.


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> If a man beget an hundred children, and live many years, so
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=3}} If a man beget an hundred children, and live many years, so
that the days of his years be many, and his soul be not filled
that the days of his years be many, and his soul be not filled
with good, and also that he have no burial; I say, that an
with good, and also that he have no burial; I say, that an
untimely birth is better than he.
untimely birth is better than he.


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> For he cometh in with vanity, and departeth in darkness, and
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=4}} For he cometh in with vanity, and departeth in darkness, and
his name shall be covered with darkness.
his name shall be covered with darkness.


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> Moreover he hath not seen the sun, nor known any thing: this
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=5}} Moreover he hath not seen the sun, nor known any thing: this
hath more rest than the other.
hath more rest than the other.


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> Yea, though he live a thousand years twice told, yet hath he
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=6}} Yea, though he live a thousand years twice told, yet hath he
seen no good: do not all go to one place?
seen no good: do not all go to one place?


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> All the labour of man is for his mouth, and yet the appetite
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=7}} All the labour of man is for his mouth, and yet the appetite
is not filled.
is not filled.


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> For what hath the wise more than the fool? what hath the poor,
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=8}} For what hath the wise more than the fool? what hath the poor,
that knoweth to walk before the living?
that knoweth to walk before the living?


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> Better is the sight of the eyes than the wandering of the
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=9}} Better is the sight of the eyes than the wandering of the
desire: this is also vanity and vexation of spirit.
desire: this is also vanity and vexation of spirit.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> That which hath been is named already, and it is known that it
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=10}} That which hath been is named already, and it is known that it
is man: neither may he contend with him that is mightier than
is man: neither may he contend with him that is mightier than
he.
he.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> Seeing there be many things that increase vanity, what is man
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=11}} Seeing there be many things that increase vanity, what is man
the better?
the better?


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> For who knoweth what is good for man in this life, all the
{{verse|chapter=6|verse=12}} For who knoweth what is good for man in this life, all the
days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow? for who
days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow? for who
can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun?
can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun?


==Chapter 7==
==Chapter 7==
{{chapter|7}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=1}} A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of
death than the day of one's birth.
death than the day of one's birth.


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=2}} It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the
house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the
house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the
living will lay it to his heart.
living will lay it to his heart.


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=3}} Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the
countenance the heart is made better.
countenance the heart is made better.


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=4}} The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the
heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
heart of fools is in the house of mirth.


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> It is better to hear the rebuke of the wise, than for a man to
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=5}} It is better to hear the rebuke of the wise, than for a man to
hear the song of fools.
hear the song of fools.


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> For as the crackling of thorns under a pot, so is the laughter
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=6}} For as the crackling of thorns under a pot, so is the laughter
of the fool: this also is vanity.
of the fool: this also is vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> Surely oppression maketh a wise man mad; and a gift destroyeth
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=7}} Surely oppression maketh a wise man mad; and a gift destroyeth
the heart.
the heart.


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=8}} Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and
the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.
the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=9}} Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in
the bosom of fools.
the bosom of fools.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=10}} Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were
better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning
better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning
this.
this.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=11}} Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit
to them that see the sun.
to them that see the sun.


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=12}} For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the
excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them
excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them
that have it.
that have it.


<small><font color=#0000FF>13</font color></small> Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight,
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=13}} Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight,
which he hath made crooked?
which he hath made crooked?


<small><font color=#0000FF>14</font color></small> In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=14}} In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of
adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the
adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the
other, to the end that man should find nothing after him.
other, to the end that man should find nothing after him.


<small><font color=#0000FF>15</font color></small> All things have I seen in the days of my vanity: there is a
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=15}} All things have I seen in the days of my vanity: there is a
just man that perisheth in his righteousness, and there is a
just man that perisheth in his righteousness, and there is a
wicked man that prolongeth his life in his wickedness.
wicked man that prolongeth his life in his wickedness.


<small><font color=#0000FF>16</font color></small> Be not righteous over much; neither make thyself over wise:
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=16}} Be not righteous over much; neither make thyself over wise:
why shouldest thou destroy thyself ?
why shouldest thou destroy thyself?


<small><font color=#0000FF>17</font color></small> Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=17}} Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why
shouldest thou die before thy time?
shouldest thou die before thy time?


<small><font color=#0000FF>18</font color></small> It is good that thou shouldest take hold of this; yea, also
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=18}} It is good that thou shouldest take hold of this; yea, also
from this withdraw not thine hand: for he that feareth God
from this withdraw not thine hand: for he that feareth God
shall come forth of them all.
shall come forth of them all.


<small><font color=#0000FF>19</font color></small> Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=19}} Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which
are in the city.
are in the city.


<small><font color=#0000FF>20</font color></small> For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=20}} For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and
sinneth not.
sinneth not.


<small><font color=#0000FF>21</font color></small> Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=21}} Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou
hear thy servant curse thee:
hear thy servant curse thee:


<small><font color=#0000FF>22</font color></small> For oftentimes also thine own heart knoweth that thou thyself
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=22}} For oftentimes also thine own heart knoweth that thou thyself
likewise hast cursed others.
likewise hast cursed others.


<small><font color=#0000FF>23</font color></small> All this have I proved by wisdom: I said, I will be wise; but
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=23}} All this have I proved by wisdom: I said, I will be wise; but
it was far from me.
it was far from me.


<small><font color=#0000FF>24</font color></small> That which is far off, and exceeding deep, who can find it
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=24}} That which is far off, and exceeding deep, who can find it
out?
out?


<small><font color=#0000FF>25</font color></small> I applied mine heart to know, and to search, and to seek out
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=25}} I applied mine heart to know, and to search, and to seek out
wisdom, and the reason of things, and to know the wickedness
wisdom, and the reason of things, and to know the wickedness
of folly, even of foolishness and madness:
of folly, even of foolishness and madness:


<small><font color=#0000FF>26</font color></small> And I find more bitter than death the woman, whose heart is
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=26}} And I find more bitter than death the woman, whose heart is
snares and nets, and her hands as bands: whoso pleaseth God
snares and nets, and her hands as bands: whoso pleaseth God
shall escape from her; but the sinner shall be taken by her.
shall escape from her; but the sinner shall be taken by her.


<small><font color=#0000FF>27</font color></small> Behold, this have I found, saith the preacher, counting one by
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=27}} Behold, this have I found, saith the preacher, counting one by
one, to find out the account:
one, to find out the account:


<small><font color=#0000FF>28</font color></small> Which yet my soul seeketh, but I find not: one man among a
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=28}} Which yet my soul seeketh, but I find not: one man among a
thousand have I found; but a woman among all those have I not
thousand have I found; but a woman among all those have I not
found.
found.


<small><font color=#0000FF>29</font color></small> Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright;
{{verse|chapter=7|verse=29}} Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright;
but they have sought out many inventions.
but they have sought out many inventions.


==Chapter 8==
==Chapter 8==
{{chapter|8}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> Who is as the wise man? and who knoweth the interpretation of
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=1}} Who is as the wise man? and who knoweth the interpretation of
a thing? a man's wisdom maketh his face to shine, and the
a thing? a man's wisdom maketh his face to shine, and the
boldness of his face shall be changed.
boldness of his face shall be changed.


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> I counsel thee to keep the king's commandment, and that in
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=2}} I counsel thee to keep the king's commandment, and that in
regard of the oath of God.
regard of the oath of God.


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> Be not hasty to go out of his sight: stand not in an evil
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=3}} Be not hasty to go out of his sight: stand not in an evil
thing; for he doeth whatsoever pleaseth him.
thing; for he doeth whatsoever pleaseth him.


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> Where the word of a king is, there is power: and who may say
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=4}} Where the word of a king is, there is power: and who may say
unto him, What doest thou?
unto him, What doest thou?


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> Whoso keepeth the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=5}} Whoso keepeth the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a
wise man's heart discerneth both time and judgment.
wise man's heart discerneth both time and judgment.


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=6}} Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore
the misery of man is great upon him.
the misery of man is great upon him.


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=7}} For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him
when it shall be?
when it shall be?


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> There is no man that hath power over the spirit to retain the
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=8}} There is no man that hath power over the spirit to retain the
spirit; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there
spirit; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there
is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver
is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver
those that are given to it.
those that are given to it.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> All this have I seen, and applied my heart unto every work
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=9}} 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
that is done under the sun: there is a time wherein one man
ruleth over another to his own hurt.
ruleth over another to his own hurt.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> And so I saw the wicked buried, who had come and gone from the
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=10}} 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
place of the holy, and they were forgotten in the city where
they had so done: this is also vanity.
they had so done: this is also vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> Because sentence against an evil work is not executed
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=11}} Because sentence against an evil work is not executed
speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set
speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set
in them to do evil.
in them to do evil.


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=12}} Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be
prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them
prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them
that fear God, which fear before him:
that fear God, which fear before him:


<small><font color=#0000FF>13</font color></small> But it shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=13}} But it shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he
prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he feareth
prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he feareth
not before God.
not before God.


<small><font color=#0000FF>14</font color></small> There is a vanity which is done upon the earth; that there be
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=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
just men, unto whom it happeneth according to the work of the
wicked; again, there be wicked men, to whom it happeneth
wicked; again, there be wicked men, to whom it happeneth
Line 566: Line 582:
is vanity.
is vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>15</font color></small> Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=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
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,
that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life,
which God giveth him under the sun.
which God giveth him under the sun.


<small><font color=#0000FF>16</font color></small> When I applied mine heart to know wisdom, and to see the
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=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
business that is done upon the earth: (for also there is that
neither day nor night seeth sleep with his eyes:)
neither day nor night seeth sleep with his eyes:)


<small><font color=#0000FF>17</font color></small> Then I beheld all the work of God, that a man cannot find out
{{verse|chapter=8|verse=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
the work that is done under the sun: because though a man
labour to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea farther;
labour 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
though a wise ''man'' think to know ''it'', yet shall he not be able
to find it.
to find ''it''.


==Chapter 9==
==Chapter 9==
{{chapter|9}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> For all this I considered in my heart even to declare all
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=1}} For all this I considered in my heart even to declare all
this, that the righteous, and the wise, and their works, are
this, that the righteous, and the wise, and their works, are
in the hand of God: no man knoweth either love or hatred by
in the hand of God: no man knoweth either love or hatred by
all that is before them.
all that is before them.


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> All things come alike to all: there is one event to the
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=2}} All things come alike to all: there is one event to the
righteous, and to the wicked; to the good and to the clean,
righteous, and to the wicked; to the good and to the clean,
and to the unclean; to him that sacrificeth, and to him that
and to the unclean; to him that sacrificeth, and to him that
Line 594: Line 611:
sweareth, as he that feareth an oath.
sweareth, as he that feareth an oath.


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> This is an evil among all things that are done under the sun,
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=3}} This is an evil among all things that are done under the sun,
that there is one event unto all: yea, also the heart of the
that there is one event unto all: yea, also the heart of the
sons of men is full of evil, and madness is in their heart
sons of men is full of evil, and madness is in their heart
while they live, and after that they go to the dead.
while they live, and after that they go to the dead.


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> For to him that is joined to all the living there is hope: for
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=4}} For to him that is joined to all the living there is hope: for
a living dog is better than a dead lion.
a living dog is better than a dead lion.


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=5}} For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not
any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory
any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory
of them is forgotten.
of them is forgotten.


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=6}} Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now
perished; neither have they any more a portion for ever in any
perished; neither have they any more a portion for ever in any
thing that is done under the sun.
thing that is done under the sun.


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=7}} Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a
merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.
merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=8}} Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no
ointment.
ointment.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=9}} Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of
the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the
the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the
sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in
sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in
this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.
this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=10}} Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for
there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in
there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in
the grave, whither thou goest.
the grave, whither thou goest.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=11}} I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the
swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the
swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the
wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour
wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour
to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.
to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=12}} For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are
taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the
taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the
snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it
snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it
falleth suddenly upon them.
falleth suddenly upon them.


<small><font color=#0000FF>13</font color></small> This wisdom have I seen also under the sun, and it seemed
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=13}} This wisdom have I seen also under the sun, and it seemed
great unto me:
great unto me:


<small><font color=#0000FF>14</font color></small> There was a little city, and few men within it; and there came
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=14}} There was a little city, and few men within it; and there came
a great king against it, and besieged it, and built great
a great king against it, and besieged it, and built great
bulwarks against it:
bulwarks against it:


<small><font color=#0000FF>15</font color></small> Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=15}} Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his
wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same
wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same
poor man.
poor man.


<small><font color=#0000FF>16</font color></small> Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=16}} Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the
poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard.
poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard.


<small><font color=#0000FF>17</font color></small> The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=17}} The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of
him that ruleth among fools.
him that ruleth among fools.


<small><font color=#0000FF>18</font color></small> Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner
{{verse|chapter=9|verse=18}} Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner
destroyeth much good.
destroyeth much good.


==Chapter 10==
==Chapter 10==
{{chapter|10}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=1}} Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth
a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in
a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in
reputation for wisdom and honour.
reputation for wisdom and honour.


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> A wise man's heart is at his right hand; but a fool's heart at
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=2}} A wise man's heart is at his right hand; but a fool's heart at
his left.
his left.


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> Yea also, when he that is a fool walketh by the way, his
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=3}} Yea also, when he that is a fool walketh by the way, his
wisdom faileth him, and he saith to every one that he is a
wisdom faileth him, and he saith to every one that he is a
fool.
fool.


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=4}} If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy
place; for yielding pacifieth great offences.
place; for yielding pacifieth great offences.


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, as an error
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=5}} There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, as an error
which proceedeth from the ruler:
which proceedeth from the ruler:


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> Folly is set in great dignity, and the rich sit in low place.
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=6}} Folly is set in great dignity, and the rich sit in low place.


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> I have seen servants upon horses, and princes walking as
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=7}} I have seen servants upon horses, and princes walking as
servants upon the earth.
servants upon the earth.


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breaketh
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=8}} He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breaketh
an hedge, a serpent shall bite him.
an hedge, a serpent shall bite him.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> Whoso removeth stones shall be hurt therewith; and he that
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=9}} Whoso removeth stones shall be hurt therewith; and he that
cleaveth wood shall be endangered thereby.
cleaveth wood shall be endangered thereby.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=10}} If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must
he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.
he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> Surely the serpent will bite without enchantment; and a
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=11}} Surely the serpent will bite without enchantment; and a
babbler is no better.
babbler is no better.


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> The words of a wise man's mouth are gracious; but the lips of
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=12}} The words of a wise man's mouth are gracious; but the lips of
a fool will swallow up himself.
a fool will swallow up himself.


<small><font color=#0000FF>13</font color></small> The beginning of the words of his mouth is foolishness: and
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=13}} The beginning of the words of his mouth is foolishness: and
the end of his talk is mischievous madness.
the end of his talk is mischievous madness.


<small><font color=#0000FF>14</font color></small> A fool also is full of words: a man cannot tell what shall be;
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=14}} A fool also is full of words: a man cannot tell what shall be;
and what shall be after him, who can tell him?
and what shall be after him, who can tell him?


<small><font color=#0000FF>15</font color></small> The labour of the foolish wearieth every one of them, because
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=15}} The labour of the foolish wearieth every one of them, because
he knoweth not how to go to the city.
he knoweth not how to go to the city.


<small><font color=#0000FF>16</font color></small> Woe to thee, O land, when thy king is a child, and thy princes
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=16}} Woe to thee, O land, when thy king is a child, and thy princes
eat in the morning!
eat in the morning!


<small><font color=#0000FF>17</font color></small> Blessed art thou, O land, when thy king is the son of nobles,
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=17}} Blessed art thou, O land, when thy king is the son of nobles,
and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for
and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for
drunkenness!
drunkenness!


<small><font color=#0000FF>18</font color></small> By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=18}} By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through
idleness of the hands the house droppeth through.
idleness of the hands the house droppeth through.


<small><font color=#0000FF>19</font color></small> A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=19}} A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money
answereth all things.
answereth all things.


<small><font color=#0000FF>20</font color></small> Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the
{{verse|chapter=10|verse=20}} Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the
rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the
rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the
voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.
voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.


==Chapter 11==
==Chapter 11==
{{chapter|11}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after
{{verse|chapter=11|verse=1}} Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after
many days.
many days.


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest
{{verse|chapter=11|verse=2}} Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest
not what evil shall be upon the earth.
not what evil shall be upon the earth.


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the
{{verse|chapter=11|verse=3}} If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the
earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the
earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the
north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.
north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that
{{verse|chapter=11|verse=4}} He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that
regardeth the clouds shall not reap.
regardeth the clouds shall not reap.


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the
{{verse|chapter=11|verse=5}} As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the
bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so
bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so
thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all.
thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all.


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not
{{verse|chapter=11|verse=6}} In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not
thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either
thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either
this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.
this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the
{{verse|chapter=11|verse=7}} Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the
eyes to behold the sun:
eyes to behold the sun:


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> But if a man live many years, and rejoice in them all; yet let
{{verse|chapter=11|verse=8}} But if a man live many years, and rejoice in them all; yet let
him remember the days of darkness; for they shall be many. All
him remember the days of darkness; for they shall be many. All
that cometh is vanity.
that cometh is vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer
{{verse|chapter=11|verse=9}} Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer
thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine
thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine
heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for
heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for
all these things God will bring thee into judgment.
all these things God will bring thee into judgment.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> Therefore remove sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from
{{verse|chapter=11|verse=10}} Therefore remove sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from
thy flesh: for childhood and youth are vanity.
thy flesh: for childhood and youth are vanity.


==Chapter 12==
==Chapter 12==
{{chapter|12}}


<small><font color=#0000FF>1</font color></small> Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=1}} Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the
evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt
evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt
say, I have no pleasure in them;
say, I have no pleasure in them;


<small><font color=#0000FF>2</font color></small> While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=2}} While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not
darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain:
darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain:


<small><font color=#0000FF>3</font color></small> In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=3}} In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and
the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease
the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease
because they are few, and those that look out of the windows
because they are few, and those that look out of the windows
be darkened,
be darkened,


<small><font color=#0000FF>4</font color></small> And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=4}} And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of
the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the
the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the
bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low;
bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low;


<small><font color=#0000FF>5</font color></small> Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=5}} Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and
fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish,
fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish,
and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail:
and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail:
Line 782: Line 802:
the streets:
the streets:


<small><font color=#0000FF>6</font color></small> Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=6}} Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be
broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel
broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel
broken at the cistern.
broken at the cistern.


<small><font color=#0000FF>7</font color></small> Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=7}} Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the
spirit shall return unto God who gave it.
spirit shall return unto God who gave it.


<small><font color=#0000FF>8</font color></small> Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity.
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=8}} Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity.


<small><font color=#0000FF>9</font color></small> And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=9}} And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught
the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out,
the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out,
and set in order many proverbs.
and set in order many proverbs.


<small><font color=#0000FF>10</font color></small> The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=10}} The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that
which was written was upright, even words of truth.
which was written was upright, even words of truth.


<small><font color=#0000FF>11</font color></small> The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=11}} The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by
the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.
the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.


<small><font color=#0000FF>12</font color></small> And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=12}} And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many
books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the
books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the
flesh.
flesh.


<small><font color=#0000FF>13</font color></small> Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=13}} Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and
keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.


<small><font color=#0000FF>14</font color></small> For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every
{{verse|chapter=12|verse=14}} For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every
secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

{{biblecontents|version=King James}}

[[ar:سفر الجامعة]]
[[az:Bibliya/Vaiz Kitabı]]
[[cs:Bible (Kralická)/Kazatel]]
[[el:Εκκλησιαστής]]
[[es:Eclesiastés]]
[[fr:Ecclésiaste - Crampon]]
[[he:קהלת ניקוד]]
[[la:The Old Testament (Vulgate)/Ecclesiastes]]
[[ro:Biblia/Vechiul Testament/Ecclesiastul]]
[[ru:Книга Екклезиаста, или Проповедника]]
[[ru:Библия (Макарий)/Книга Екклезиаста, или Проповедника]]
[[sr:Књига проповједникова]]
[[sv:Bibeln 1917/Predikaren]]
[[th:พระธรรมปัญญาจารย์]]
[[uk:Біблія (Огієнко)/Екклезiяст]]

Latest revision as of 10:14, 21 February 2024

For other versions of this work, see Ecclesiastes (Bible).

Chapter 1

[edit]

1 The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king of Jerusalem.

2 Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity.

3 What profit hath a man of all his labour which he taketh under the sun?

4 One generation passeth away, and another generation cometh: but the earth abideth for ever.

5 The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to his place where he arose.

6 The wind goeth toward the south, and turneth about unto the north; it whirleth about continually, and the wind returneth again according to his circuits.

7 All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again.

8 All things are full of labour; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.

9 The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.

10 Is there any thing whereof it may be said, See, this is new? it hath been already of old time, which was before us.

11 There is no remembrance of former things; neither shall there be any remembrance of things that are to come with those that shall come after.

12 I the Preacher was king over Israel in Jerusalem.

13 And I gave my heart to seek and search out by wisdom concerning all things that are done under heaven: this sore travail hath God given to the sons of man to be exercised therewith.

14 I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit.

15 That which is crooked cannot be made straight: and that which is wanting cannot be numbered.

16 I communed with mine own heart, saying, Lo, I am come to great estate, and have gotten more wisdom than all they that have been before me in Jerusalem: yea, my heart had great experience of wisdom and knowledge.

17 And I gave my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly: I perceived that this also is vexation of spirit.

18 For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.

Chapter 2

[edit]

1 I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will prove thee with mirth, therefore enjoy pleasure: and, behold, this also is vanity.

2 I said of laughter, It is mad: and of mirth, What doeth it?

3 I sought in mine heart to give myself unto wine, yet acquainting mine heart with wisdom; and to lay hold on folly, till I might see what was that good for the sons of men, which they should do under the heaven all the days of their life.

4 I made me great works; I builded me houses; I planted me vineyards:

5 I made me gardens and orchards, and I planted trees in them of all kind of fruits:

6 I made me pools of water, to water therewith the wood that bringeth forth trees:

7 I got me servants and maidens, and had servants born in my house; also I had great possessions of great and small cattle above all that were in Jerusalem before me:

8 I gathered me also silver and gold, and the peculiar treasure of kings and of the provinces: I gat me men singers and women singers, and the delights of the sons of men, as musical instruments, and that of all sorts.

9 So I was great, and increased more than all that were before me in Jerusalem: also my wisdom remained with me.

10 And whatsoever mine eyes desired I kept not from them, I withheld not my heart from any joy; for my heart rejoiced in all my labour: and this was my portion of all my labour.

11 Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under the sun.

12 And I turned myself to behold wisdom, and madness, and folly: for what can the man do that cometh after the king? even that which hath been already done.

13 Then I saw that wisdom excelleth folly, as far as light excelleth darkness.

14 The wise man's eyes are in his head; but the fool walketh in darkness: and I myself perceived also that one event happeneth to them all.

15 Then said I in my heart, As it happeneth to the fool, so it happeneth even to me; and why was I then more wise? Then I said in my heart, that this also is vanity.

16 For there is no remembrance of the wise more than of the fool for ever; seeing that which now is in the days to come shall all be forgotten. And how dieth the wise man? as the fool.

17 Therefore I hated life; because the work that is wrought under the sun is grievous unto me: for all is vanity and vexation of spirit.

18 Yea, I hated all my labour which I had taken under the sun: because I should leave it unto the man that shall be after me.

19 And who knoweth whether he shall be a wise man or a fool? yet shall he have rule over all my labour wherein I have laboured, and wherein I have shewed myself wise under the sun. This is also vanity.

20 Therefore I went about to cause my heart to despair of all the labour which I took under the sun.

21 For there is a man whose labour is in wisdom, and in knowledge, and in equity; yet to a man that hath not laboured therein shall he leave it for his portion. This also is vanity and a great evil.

22 For what hath man of all his labour, and of the vexation of his heart, wherein he hath laboured under the sun?

23 For all his days are sorrows, and his travail grief; yea, his heart taketh not rest in the night. This is also vanity.

24 There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.

25 For who can eat, or who else can hasten hereunto, more than I?

26 For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth travail, to gather and to heap up, that he may give to him that is good before God. This also is vanity and vexation of spirit.

Chapter 3

[edit]

1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;

3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;

4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;

6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;

7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

9 What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?

10 I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.

11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.

12 I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life.

13 And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.

14 I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him.

15 That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past.

16 And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that wickedness was there; and the place of righteousness, that iniquity was there.

17 I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work.

18 I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men, that God might manifest them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts.

19 For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity.

20 All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again.

21 Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?

22 Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?

Chapter 4

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1 So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter.

2 Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead more than the living which are yet alive.

3 Yea, better is he than both they, which hath not yet been, who hath not seen the evil work that is done under the sun.

4 Again, I considered all travail, and every right work, that for this a man is envied of his neighbour. This is also vanity and vexation of spirit.

5 The fool foldeth his hands together, and eateth his own flesh.

6 Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit.

7 Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun.

8 There is one alone, and there is not a second; yea, he hath neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither saith he, For whom do I labour, and bereave my soul of good? This is also vanity, yea, it is a sore travail.

9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.

10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.

11 Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone?

12 And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

13 Better is a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish king, who will no more be admonished.

14 For out of prison he cometh to reign; whereas also he that is born in his kingdom becometh poor.

15 I considered all the living which walk under the sun, with the second child that shall stand up in his stead.

16 There is no end of all the people, even of all that have been before them: they also that come after shall not rejoice in him. Surely this also is vanity and vexation of spirit.

Chapter 5

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1 Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil.

2 Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.

3 For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool's voice is known by multitude of words.

4 When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed.

5 Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay.

6 Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?

7 For in the multitude of dreams and many words there are also divers vanities: but fear thou God.

8 If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not at the matter: for he that is higher than the highest regardeth; and there be higher than they.

9 Moreover the profit of the earth is for all: the king himself is served by the field.

10 He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity.

11 When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes?

12 The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much: but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep.

13 There is a sore evil which I have seen under the sun, namely, riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt.

14 But those riches perish by evil travail: and he begetteth a son, and there is nothing in his hand.

15 As he came forth of his mother's womb, naked shall he return to go as he came, and shall take nothing of his labour, which he may carry away in his hand.

16 And this also is a sore evil, that in all points as he came, so shall he go: and what profit hath he that hath laboured for the wind?

17 All his days also he eateth in darkness, and he hath much sorrow and wrath with his sickness.

18 Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for it is his portion.

19 Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.

20 For he shall not much remember the days of his life; because God answereth him in the joy of his heart.

Chapter 6

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1 There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, and it is common among men:

2 A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger eateth it: this is vanity, and it is an evil disease.

3 If a man beget an hundred children, and live many years, so that the days of his years be many, and his soul be not filled with good, and also that he have no burial; I say, that an untimely birth is better than he.

4 For he cometh in with vanity, and departeth in darkness, and his name shall be covered with darkness.

5 Moreover he hath not seen the sun, nor known any thing: this hath more rest than the other.

6 Yea, though he live a thousand years twice told, yet hath he seen no good: do not all go to one place?

7 All the labour of man is for his mouth, and yet the appetite is not filled.

8 For what hath the wise more than the fool? what hath the poor, that knoweth to walk before the living?

9 Better is the sight of the eyes than the wandering of the desire: this is also vanity and vexation of spirit.

10 That which hath been is named already, and it is known that it is man: neither may he contend with him that is mightier than he.

11 Seeing there be many things that increase vanity, what is man the better?

12 For who knoweth what is good for man in this life, all the days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow? for who can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun?

Chapter 7

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1 A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one's birth.

2 It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart.

3 Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better.

4 The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.

5 It is better to hear the rebuke of the wise, than for a man to hear the song of fools.

6 For as the crackling of thorns under a pot, so is the laughter of the fool: this also is vanity.

7 Surely oppression maketh a wise man mad; and a gift destroyeth the heart.

8 Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.

9 Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.

10 Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning this.

11 Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun.

12 For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it.

13 Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight, which he hath made crooked?

14 In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after him.

15 All things have I seen in the days of my vanity: there is a just man that perisheth in his righteousness, and there is a wicked man that prolongeth his life in his wickedness.

16 Be not righteous over much; neither make thyself over wise: why shouldest thou destroy thyself?

17 Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time?

18 It is good that thou shouldest take hold of this; yea, also from this withdraw not thine hand: for he that feareth God shall come forth of them all.

19 Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city.

20 For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.

21 Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee:

22 For oftentimes also thine own heart knoweth that thou thyself likewise hast cursed others.

23 All this have I proved by wisdom: I said, I will be wise; but it was far from me.

24 That which is far off, and exceeding deep, who can find it out?

25 I applied mine heart to know, and to search, and to seek out wisdom, and the reason of things, and to know the wickedness of folly, even of foolishness and madness:

26 And I find more bitter than death the woman, whose heart is snares and nets, and her hands as bands: whoso pleaseth God shall escape from her; but the sinner shall be taken by her.

27 Behold, this have I found, saith the preacher, counting one by one, to find out the account:

28 Which yet my soul seeketh, but I find not: one man among a thousand have I found; but a woman among all those have I not found.

29 Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions.

Chapter 8

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1 Who is as the wise man? and who knoweth the interpretation of a thing? a man's wisdom maketh his face to shine, and the boldness of his face shall be changed.

2 I counsel thee to keep the king's commandment, and that in regard of the oath of God.

3 Be not hasty to go out of his sight: stand not in an evil thing; for he doeth whatsoever pleaseth him.

4 Where the word of a king is, there is power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?

5 Whoso keepeth the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a wise man's heart discerneth both time and judgment.

6 Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the misery of man is great upon him.

7 For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be?

8 There is no man that hath power over the 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.

9 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 ruleth over another to his own hurt.

10 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.

11 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.

12 Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him:

13 But it shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he feareth not before God.

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.

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.

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 farther; though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it.

Chapter 9

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1 For all this I considered in my heart even to declare all this, that the righteous, and the wise, and their works, are in the hand of God: no man knoweth either love or hatred by all that is before them.

2 All things come alike to all: there is one event to the righteous, and to the wicked; to the good and to the clean, and to the unclean; to him that sacrificeth, and to him that sacrificeth not: as is the good, so is the sinner; and he that sweareth, as he that feareth an oath.

3 This is an evil among all things that are done under the sun, that there is one event unto all: yea, also the heart of the sons of men is full of evil, and madness is in their heart while they live, and after that they go to the dead.

4 For to him that is joined to all the living there is hope: for a living dog is better than a dead lion.

5 For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.

6 Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more a portion for ever in any thing that is done under the sun.

7 Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.

8 Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment.

9 Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.

10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

11 I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.

12 For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them.

13 This wisdom have I seen also under the sun, and it seemed great unto me:

14 There was a little city, and few men within it; and there came a great king against it, and besieged it, and built great bulwarks against it:

15 Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man.

16 Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard.

17 The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.

18 Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth much good.

Chapter 10

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1 Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour.

2 A wise man's heart is at his right hand; but a fool's heart at his left.

3 Yea also, when he that is a fool walketh by the way, his wisdom faileth him, and he saith to every one that he is a fool.

4 If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for yielding pacifieth great offences.

5 There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, as an error which proceedeth from the ruler:

6 Folly is set in great dignity, and the rich sit in low place.

7 I have seen servants upon horses, and princes walking as servants upon the earth.

8 He that diggeth a pit shall fall into it; and whoso breaketh an hedge, a serpent shall bite him.

9 Whoso removeth stones shall be hurt therewith; and he that cleaveth wood shall be endangered thereby.

10 If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.

11 Surely the serpent will bite without enchantment; and a babbler is no better.

12 The words of a wise man's mouth are gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself.

13 The beginning of the words of his mouth is foolishness: and the end of his talk is mischievous madness.

14 A fool also is full of words: a man cannot tell what shall be; and what shall be after him, who can tell him?

15 The labour of the foolish wearieth every one of them, because he knoweth not how to go to the city.

16 Woe to thee, O land, when thy king is a child, and thy princes eat in the morning!

17 Blessed art thou, O land, when thy king is the son of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness!

18 By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through idleness of the hands the house droppeth through.

19 A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things.

20 Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.

Chapter 11

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1 Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days.

2 Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth.

3 If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.

4 He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap.

5 As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all.

6 In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.

7 Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun:

8 But if a man live many years, and rejoice in them all; yet let him remember the days of darkness; for they shall be many. All that cometh is vanity.

9 Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.

10 Therefore remove sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from thy flesh: for childhood and youth are vanity.

Chapter 12

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1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;

2 While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain:

3 In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened,

4 And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low;

5 Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets:

6 Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern.

7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

8 Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity.

9 And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out, and set in order many proverbs.

10 The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth.

11 The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.

12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.

13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.


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