Ecclesiastes 10:14

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְהַסָּכָ֖ל

H5530

A fool

silly

יַרְבֶּ֣ה

H7235

also is full

to increase (in whatever respect)

דְבָרִ֑ים

H1697

of words

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יֵדַ֤ע

H3045

cannot tell

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

הָאָדָם֙

H120

a man

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

מַה

H4100

properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and

שֶׁיִּֽהְיֶ֔ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

וַאֲשֶׁ֤ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#10

יִֽהְיֶה֙

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

#11

מֵֽאַחֲרָ֔יו

H310

what shall be and what shall be after

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

#12

מִ֖י

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

#13

יַגִּ֥יד

H5046

him who can tell

properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

#14

לֽוֹ׃

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ecclesiastes. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Ecclesiastes Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Wisdom