King James Version
Ecclesiastes 5:13 in the King James Version says “There is a sore evil which I have seen under the sun, namely, riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt.” — study this verse from Ecclesiastes chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“There is a sore evil which I have seen under the sun, namely, riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt.”
Ecclesiastes 5:13 · KJV
When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes?
The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much: but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep.
There is a sore evil which I have seen under the sun, namely, riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt.
But those riches perish by evil travail: and he begetteth a son, and there is nothing in his hand.
As he came forth of his mother's womb, naked shall he return to go as he came, and shall take nothing of his labour, which he may carry away in his hand.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“There is”
H3426there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
“a sore”
H2470properly, to be rubbed or worn; hence (figuratively) to stroke (in flattering), entreat
“which I have seen”
H7200to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
“under the sun”
H8121the sun; by implication, the east; figuratively, a ray, i.e., (architectural) a notched battlement
“kept”
H8104properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
“for the owners”
H1167a master; hence, a husband, or (figuratively) owner (often used with another noun in modifications of this latter sense)
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 5:13 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 5:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge