King James Version

What Does Ecclesiastes 8:8 Mean?

There is no man that hath power over the spirit to retain the spirit; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that are given to it. discharge: or, casting off weapons

Context

6

Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the misery of man is great upon him.

7

For he knoweth not that which shall be: for who can tell him when it shall be? when: or, how it shall be?

8

There is no man that hath power over the spirit to retain the spirit; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that are given to it. discharge: or, casting off weapons

9

All this have I seen, and applied my heart unto every work that is done under the sun: there is a time wherein one man ruleth over another to his own hurt.

10

And so I saw the wicked buried, who had come and gone from the place of the holy, and they were forgotten in the city where they had so done: this is also vanity.

Topics in This Verse

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(8) **Spirit.**—As has been remarked in similar cases, the translation “wind” is possible; but the rendering of the whole verse as given in our version seems to me as good as any that it has been proposed to substitute. **Discharge.—**Elsewhere only (Psalm 78:49) where it is translated “sending.”

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 8:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Ecclesiastes 8:8

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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