King James Version
What Does Ecclesiastes 9:7 Mean?
“Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.”
Context
5
For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.
6
Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more a portion for ever in any thing that is done under the sun.
7
Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.
8
Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment.
9
Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun. Live: Heb. See, or, Enjoy life
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(7) **Accepteth.**—The thought has been expressed before (Ecclesiastes 2:24; Ecclesiastes 8:15), that earthly enjoyment is to be received as given by God’s favour.
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 9:7 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 9:7
Ecclesiastes 3:12-13
→Deuteronomy 12:7
→Ecclesiastes 10:19
→Ecclesiastes 8:15
→Ecclesiastes 2:24-26
→Nehemiah 8:10-12
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge