Ecclesiastes 12:11

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
דִּבְרֵ֤י
The words
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#2
חֲכָמִים֙
of the wise
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#3
כַּדָּ֣רְבֹנ֔וֹת
are as goads
a goad
#4
וּֽכְמַשְׂמְר֥וֹת
and as nails
a peg
#5
נְטוּעִ֖ים
fastened
properly, to strike in, i.e., fix; specifically, to plant (literally or figuratively)
#6
בַּעֲלֵ֣י
by the masters
a master; hence, a husband, or (figuratively) owner (often used with another noun in modifications of this latter sense)
#7
אֲסֻפּ֑וֹת
of assemblies
a collection of (learned) men (only in the plural)
#8
נִתְּנ֖וּ
which are given
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#9
מֵרֹעֶ֥ה
shepherd
to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie
#10
אֶחָֽד׃
from one
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

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

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