King James Version
What Does Ecclesiastes 5:14 Mean?
“But those riches perish by evil travail: and he begetteth a son, and there is nothing in his hand.”
Context
12
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.
13
There is a sore evil which I have seen under the sun, namely, riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt.
14
But those riches perish by evil travail: and he begetteth a son, and there is nothing in his hand.
15
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.
16
And this also is a sore evil, that in all points as he came, so shall he go: and what profit hath he that hath laboured for the wind?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(14) **Evil travail.—**Unsuccessful business.
**Nothing in his hand.—**The same words occur in a literal sense in Judges 14:6.
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 5:14 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 5:14
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge