Ecclesiastes 12:9

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְיֹתֵ֕ר

H3148

And moreover

properly, redundant; hence, over and above, as adjective, noun, adverb or conjunction

שֶׁהָיָ֥ה

H1961

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

קֹהֶ֖לֶת

H6953

because the preacher

a (female) assembler (i.e., lecturer); abstractly, preaching (used as a 'nom de plume', koheleth)

חָכָ֑ם

H2450

was wise

wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)

ע֗וֹד

H5750

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

לִמַּד

H3925

he still taught

properly, to goad, i.e., (by implication) to teach (the rod being an middle eastern incentive)

דַּ֙עַת֙

H1847

knowledge

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הָעָ֔ם

H5971

the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

#10

וְאִזֵּ֣ן

H238

to broaden out the ear (with the hand), i.e., (by implication) to listen

#11

וְחִקֵּ֔ר

H2713

and sought out

properly, to penetrate; hence, to examine intimately

#12

תִּקֵּ֖ן

H8626

and set in order

to equalize, i.e., straighten (intransitive or transitive); figuratively, to compose

#13

מְשָׁלִ֥ים

H4912

proverbs

properly, a pithy maxim, usually of metaphorical nature; hence, a simile (as an adage, poem, discourse)

#14

הַרְבֵּֽה׃

H7235

many

to increase (in whatever respect)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ecclesiastes, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Ecclesiastes.

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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Ecclesiastes chapter 12 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

Related Resources

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Topics

Wisdom