Ecclesiastes 6:1

Authorized King James Version

There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, and it is common among men:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יֵ֣שׁ
There is
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
#2
רָעָ֔ה
an evil
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#3
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#4
רָאִ֖יתִי
which I have seen
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#5
תַּ֣חַת
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
#6
הַשָּׁ֑מֶשׁ
under the sun
the sun; by implication, the east; figuratively, a ray, i.e., (architectural) a notched battlement
#7
וְרַבָּ֥ה
and it is common
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#8
הִ֖יא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#9
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#10
הָאָדָֽם׃
among men
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics