Ecclesiastes 5:7

Authorized King James Version

For in the multitude of dreams and many words there are also divers vanities: but fear thou God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֣י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
בְרֹ֤ב
For in the multitude
abundance (in any respect)
#3
חֲלֹמוֹת֙
of dreams
a dream
#4
וַהֲבָלִ֔ים
there are also divers vanities
emptiness or vanity; figuratively, something transitory and unsatisfactory; often used as an adverb
#5
וּדְבָרִ֖ים
words
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#6
הַרְבֵּ֑ה
and many
to increase (in whatever respect)
#7
כִּ֥י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#8
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
הָאֱלֹהִ֖ים
thou 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
#10
יְרָֽא׃
but fear
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

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 sovereignty 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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