Ecclesiastes 10:19

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לִשְׂחוֹק֙
for laughter
laughter (in merriment or defiance)
#2
עֹשִׂ֣ים
is made
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#3
לֶ֔חֶם
A feast
food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)
#4
וְיַ֖יִן
and wine
wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication
#5
יְשַׂמַּ֣ח
maketh merry
probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome
#6
חַיִּ֑ים
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
#7
וְהַכֶּ֖סֶף
but money
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
#8
יַעֲנֶ֥ה
answereth
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
#9
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#10
הַכֹּֽל׃
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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