King James Version
Ecclesiastes 12:8 in the King James Version says “Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity.” — study this verse from Ecclesiastes chapter 12 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity.”
Ecclesiastes 12:8 · KJV
Or ever the silver cord be loosed , or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern.
Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.
Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity.
And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out, and set in order many proverbs. moreover: or, the more wise the preacher was, etc
The preacher sought to find out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. acceptable: Heb. words of delight
KJV Study — Public Domain
“Vanity”
H1892emptiness or vanity; figuratively, something transitory and unsatisfactory; often used as an adverb
“Vanity”
H1892emptiness or vanity; figuratively, something transitory and unsatisfactory; often used as an adverb
“the preacher”
H6953a (female) assembler (i.e., lecturer); abstractly, preaching (used as a 'nom de plume', koheleth)
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
“Vanity”
H1892emptiness or vanity; figuratively, something transitory and unsatisfactory; often used as an adverb
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.
Ecclesiastes 12:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Ecclesiastes 12:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge