Ecclesiastes 11:4

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis

שֹׁמֵ֥ר

H8104

He that observeth

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

ר֖וּחַ

H7307

the wind

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

יִזְרָ֑ע

H2232

shall not sow

to sow; figuratively, to disseminate, plant, fructify

וְרֹאֶ֥ה

H7200

and he that regardeth

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

בֶעָבִ֖ים

H5645

the clouds

properly, an envelope, i.e., darkness (or density, 2 chronicles 4:17); specifically, a (scud) cloud; also a copse

לֹ֥א

H3808

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

יִקְצֽוֹר׃

H7114

shall not reap

to dock off, i.e., curtail (transitive or intransitive, literal or figurative); especially to harvest (grass or grain)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

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?
How does this verse's literary context within Ecclesiastes chapter 11 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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Topics

Wisdom