King James Version

What Does Ecclesiastes 3:8 Mean?

“A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.”

Context

A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; get: or, seek

A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?

I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.

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Topics in This Verse

Love Peace

Commentary

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

**18. a deceitful work--**or, "wages," which fail to satisfy, or flee away (Pr 10:2; 23:5). **sure reward--**or, "gain," as from trading (Ho 10:12; Ga 6:8, 9).

Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. 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 3:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.