King James Version
What Does Ecclesiastes 7:3 Mean?
“Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. Sorrow: or, Anger”
Context
1
A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one's birth.
2
It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart.
3
Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. Sorrow: or, Anger
4
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
5
It is better to hear the rebuke of the wise, than for a man to hear the song of fools.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **Sadness of the countenance.—**Genesis 40:7; Nehemiah 3:3. “Anger” (margin). This is the usual meaning of the word, and so in Ecclesiastes 7:9. It is accordingly adopted here by the older translators, but the rendering of our version is required by the context.
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 7:3 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 7:3
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge