King James Version
What Does Ecclesiastes 1:8 Mean?
“All things are full of labour; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.”
Context
6
The wind goeth toward the south, and turneth about unto the north; it whirleth about continually, and the wind returneth again according to his circuits.
7
All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea is not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again. return: Heb. return to go
8
All things are full of labour; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.
9
The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
10
Is there any thing whereof it may be said, See, this is new? it hath been already of old time, which was before us.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) This verse is capable of another translation which would give the sense “other instances of the same kind might be mentioned, but they are so numerous that it would be wearisome to recount them,” We abide by the rendering of our version.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Ecclesiastes. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Ecclesiastes 1:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Ecclesiastes 1:8
Proverbs 27:20
→Matthew 11:28
→Ecclesiastes 4:8
→Proverbs 30:15-16
→Romans 8:22-23
→Ecclesiastes 5:10-11
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge