Read Ecclesiastes 5.1-9. In In 5.1-9: Guard yourself. These sayings parallel traditional biblical wisdom: Attentiveness is better that sacrifice (1 Sam 15.22); speech is dangerous and should be minimal (Prov 13.3); and vows require fulfillment (Deut 23.21). While the teacher advises caution in all things, he does not reject the Temple (house of God). In verse 6: Messenger: Likely a servant of the Temple, collecting the payment of a vow. In verse 7: Fear of God: A common motif in wisdom literature, affirming God's control over all matters. In verses 8-9: Injustice should surprise no one, since it is part of the structure of society. King for a plowed field: Meaning unclear, perhaps "a king is worth his upkeep" or "the benefits of an ordered society are worth the cost of social oppression," a point of view more likely at the upper end of the social hierarchy. Comments or Questions..
Thursday, December 18, 2025
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