Ecclesiastes 6:8

Authorized King James Version

For what hath the wise more than the fool? what hath the poor, that knoweth to walk before the living?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֛י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
מַה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#3
יּוֹתֵ֥ר
more
properly, redundant; hence, over and above, as adjective, noun, adverb or conjunction
#4
לֶחָכָ֖ם
For what hath the wise
wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)
#5
מִֽן
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#6
הַכְּסִ֑יל
than the fool
properly, fat, i.e., (figuratively) stupid or silly
#7
מַה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#8
לֶּעָנִ֣י
what hath the poor
depressed, in mind or circumstances
#9
יוֹדֵ֔עַ
that knoweth
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#10
לַהֲלֹ֖ךְ
to walk
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#11
נֶ֥גֶד
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
#12
הַחַיִּֽים׃
before the living
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ecclesiastes, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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