Ecclesiastes 7:11
Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Ancient Israelite inheritance laws (Numbers 27:8-11, Deuteronomy 21:15-17) preserved family wealth across generations. Inheritance provided economic security and social standing. Solomon himself inherited both great wealth and his father David's wisdom (1 Kings 3:3-14). The combination enabled him to build the temple, establish trade routes, and rule effectively—at least initially. Yet Israel's history shows many wealthy fools (the rich fool of Luke 12:16-21, wealthy apostates like Amaziah) and wise poor (the widow's offering, Mark 12:41-44). The early church included both wealthy supporters (Lydia, Acts 16:14-15; Philemon) and poor believers, united in Christ. This verse offers practical wisdom: steward resources wisely, but recognize earthly advantage as temporary.
Questions for Reflection
- How are you using whatever 'inheritance' (resources, education, opportunities) you've received in combination with godly wisdom?
- What 'profit' or lasting good are you producing 'under the sun' that serves others and honors God, not merely accumulates wealth?
Analysis & Commentary
Wisdom is good with an inheritance (טוֹבָה חָכְמָה עִם־נַחֲלָה, tovah chokhmah im-nachalah)—The comparison links wisdom (chokhmah) with material inheritance (nachalah). The preposition im ('with') suggests combination: wisdom plus resources creates powerful advantage. Wealth without wisdom leads to waste (Proverbs 21:20); wisdom without resources limits impact.
And by it there is profit to them that see the sun (וְיֹתֵר לְרֹאֵי הַשָּׁמֶשׁ, ve'yoter le'ro'ei hashemesh)—'Profit' (yoter) means 'advantage' or 'gain.' The phrase 'them that see the sun' idiomatically means 'the living' (see 6:5, 11:7). Wisdom applied to resources benefits oneself and others during earthly life. Yet the verse implies limitation—this advantage applies only 'under the sun,' not eternally. True wisdom ultimately points beyond material advantage to fearing God (12:13). Proverbs 3:13-18 celebrates wisdom as more precious than silver or gold, yet this verse acknowledges that wisdom combined with means accomplishes much good.