King James Version
Ecclesiastes 6:8 in the King James Version says “For what hath the wise more than the fool? what hath the poor, that knoweth to walk before the living?” — study this verse from Ecclesiastes chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“For what hath the wise more than the fool? what hath the poor, that knoweth to walk before the living?”
Ecclesiastes 6:8 · KJV
Yea, though he live a thousand years twice told, yet hath he seen no good: do not all go to one place?
All the labour of man is for his mouth, and yet the appetite is not filled. appetite: Heb. soul
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.
KJV Study — Public Domain
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
“more”
H3148properly, redundant; hence, over and above, as adjective, noun, adverb or conjunction
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
“that knoweth”
H3045to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
“to walk”
H1980to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
“before the living”
H2416alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
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 6:8 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 6:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge