King James Version
Ecclesiastes 6:10 in the King James Version says “That which hath been is named already, and it is known that it is man: neither may he contend with him that is mightier ...” — study this verse from Ecclesiastes chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“That which hath been is named already, and it is known that it is man: neither may he contend with him that is mightier than he.”
Ecclesiastes 6:10 · KJV
For what hath the wise more than the fool? what hath the poor, that knoweth to walk before the living?
Better is the sight of the eyes than the wandering of the desire: this is also vanity and vexation of spirit. than: Heb. than the walking of the soul
That which hath been is named already, and it is known that it is man: neither may he contend with him that is mightier than he.
Seeing there be many things that increase vanity, what is man the better?
For who knoweth what is good for man in this life, all the days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow? for who can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun? all: Heb. the number of the days of the life of his vanity
KJV Study — Public Domain
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
“already”
H3528properly, extent of time, i.e., a great while; hence, long ago, formerly, hitherto
“That which hath been is named”
H7121to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
“and it is known”
H3045to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
“that it is man”
H120ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“he contend”
H1777to rule; by implication to judge (as umpire); also to strive (as at law)
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
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 6:10 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 6:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge