V. (1) In the Hebrew division this is the last verse of the preceding chapter; but clearly here a new section begins, containing proverbs in the second person singular, which has not hitherto been used. There is no obvious connection with what has gone before; possibly the precepts here introduced... [ Continue Reading ]
FEW. — Sir. 7:14; Sir. 18:22.... [ Continue Reading ]
There is here a clear recognition of the passage in Deuteronomy. (See ref.; comp. Sir. 18:23.) NO PLEASURE IN FOOLS. — Comp. Isaiah 62:4.... [ Continue Reading ]
THE ANGEL. — It has been proposed to translate this word the “messenger,” or ambassador of God, and understand “the priest” (see Malachi 2:7); and it has been regarded as one of the notes of later date in this book that the word should be used in such a sense. But even in the passage of Malachi ther... [ Continue Reading ]
This verse presents some difficulties of translation springing from corruption of text, but not affecting the general sense; according to which the many words which belong to the dreams and vanities of heathendom are contrasted with the fear of the only God.... [ Continue Reading ]
The interpretation of this verse depends on the sense we give to “marvel.” There are some who take it of simple surprise. “You need not think it strange; the instances of oppression which you observe are only parts of a gigantic scheme of mutual wrong-doing, the oppressors of one being themselves op... [ Continue Reading ]
IS SERVED BY. — Or, _is servant to._ Many eminent interpreters connect this verse with what precedes, and translate, “and on the whole the profit of the land is a king devoted to agriculture,” an observation which it is hard to clear of the charge of irrelevance. I prefer, as in our version, to conn... [ Continue Reading ]
SORE EVIL. — Ecclesiastes 6:2; Jeremiah 14:17; Nahum 3:19.... [ Continue Reading ]
EVIL TRAVAIL. — Unsuccessful business. NOTHING IN HIS HAND. — The same words occur in a literal sense in Judges 14:6.... [ Continue Reading ]
There is a clear use of Job 1:21. (See also Psalms 139:15.) And this passage itself is used in Sir. 40:1.... [ Continue Reading ]
We pass without notice some variations of translation in this verse, which do not materially affect the sense.... [ Continue Reading ]
The Preacher is led back to the conclusion at which he had arrived (Ecclesiastes 2:24; Ecclesiastes 3:12; Ecclesiastes 3:22).... [ Continue Reading ]
“In the enjoyment of God’s gifts he does not think much of the sorrows or brevity of life.” This is the usual explanation; and though not satisfied with it, we cannot suggest a better.... [ Continue Reading ]