Ecclesiastes 3:10

I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.

Word-by-Word Analysis

רָאִ֣יתִי

H7200

I have seen

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

אֶת

H853

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

הָֽעִנְיָ֗ן

H6045

the travail

ado, i.e., (generally) employment or (specifically) an affair

אֲשֶׁ֨ר

H834

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

נָתַ֧ן

H5414

hath given

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

אֱלֹהִ֛ים

H430

which God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

לִבְנֵ֥י

H1121

to the sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

הָאָדָ֖ם

H120

of men

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

לַעֲנ֥וֹת

H6031

to be exercised

to depress literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive (in various applications, as follows)

#10

בּֽוֹ׃

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ecclesiastes, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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 the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

Related Resources

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Topics

Wisdom