Ecclesiastes 8:12

Ecclesiastes 8:12 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Although a sinner does evil a hundred times and still lives long, yet I also know that it will go well with those who fear God, who are reverent in His presence.

King James Version KJV

¶ Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him:

American Standard Version ASV

Though a sinner do evil a hundred times, and prolong his days, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, that fear before him:

Bible in Basic English BBE

Though a sinner does evil a hundred times and his life is long, I am certain that it will be well for those who go in fear of God and are in fear before him.

Free Bible Version FBV

Even though a sinner may do wrong a hundred times, and live a long life, I'm convinced that those who do what God says will be better off.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Though a sinner doe euill an hundreth times, and God prolongeth his dayes, yet I knowe that it shalbe well with them that feare the Lord, and doe reuerence before him.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

Though a sinner is doing evil a hundred [times], and prolonging [himself] for it, surely also I know that there is good to those fearing God, who fear before Him.

World English Bible WEB

Though a sinner commits crimes a hundred times, and lives long, yet surely I know that it will be better with those who fear God, who are reverent before him.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Though a sinner doeth evil a hundred times, and his days are prolonged, yet surely I know that it will be well with them that fear God, who fear before him:

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

But though a sinner do evil a hundred times, and by patience be borne withal, I know from thence that it shall be well with them that fear God, who dread his face.

Translation for Translators T4T

But even if sinful people commit 100 crimes, and even if they live for a long time, I know that things will go better for those who greatly respect and revere God.

Study Highlights

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Berean Amplified Bible — Ecclesiastes 8:12

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Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Ecclesiastes 8:12 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB אֲשֶׁ֣ר חֹטֶ֗א עֹשֶׂ֥ה רָ֛ע מְאַ֖ת וּ/מַאֲרִ֣יךְ ל֑/וֹ כִּ֚י גַּם יוֹדֵ֣עַ אָ֔נִי אֲשֶׁ֤ר יִהְיֶה טּוֹב֙ לְ/יִרְאֵ֣י הָ/אֱלֹהִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר יִֽירְא֖וּ מִ/לְּ/פָנָֽי/ו

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

חֹטֶ֗א châṭâʼ H2398 to sin V-Qal

עֹשֶׂ֥ה ʻâsâh H6213 to make V-Qal

רָ֛ע raʻ H7451 bad Adj

מְאַ֖ת mêʼâh H3967 hundred Adj

וּ/מַאֲרִ֣יךְ ʼârak H748 to prolong Conj | V-Hiphil

ל֑/וֹ Prep | Suff

כִּ֚י kîy H3588 for Conj

גַּם gam H1571 also DirObjM

יוֹדֵ֣עַ yâdaʻ H3045 to know V-Qal

אָ֔נִי ʼănîy H589 I Pron

אֲשֶׁ֤ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

יִהְיֶה hâyâh H1961 to be V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

טּוֹב֙ ṭôwb H2896 pleasant Adj

לְ/יִרְאֵ֣י yârêʼ H3372 to fear Prep | Adj

הָ/אֱלֹהִ֔ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 God Art | N-mp

אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

יִֽירְא֖וּ yârêʼ H3372 to fear V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

מִ/לְּ/פָנָֽי/ו pânîym H6440 face Prep | Prep | N-cp | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Ecclesiastes 8:12

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

חֹטֶ֗א châṭâʼ H2398 "to sin" V-Qal

To sin means to miss the mark or go wrong, incurring guilt or penalty, and can also mean to repent or make amends. It is used in the Bible to describe wrongdoing and its consequences.

Definition: 1) to sin, miss, miss the way, go wrong, incur guilt, forfeit, purify from uncleanness 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to miss 1a2) to sin, miss the goal or path of right and duty 1a3) to incur guilt, incur penalty by sin, forfeit 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to bear loss 1b2) to make a sin-offering 1b3) to purify from sin 1b4) to purify from uncleanness 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to miss the mark 1c2) to induce to sin, cause to sin 1c3) to bring into guilt or condemnation or punishment 1d) (Hithpael) 1d1) to miss oneself, lose oneself, wander from the way 1d2) to purify oneself from uncleanness

Usage: Occurs in 220 OT verses. KJV: bear the blame, cleanse, commit (sin), by fault, harm he hath done, loss, miss, (make) offend(-er), offer for sin, purge, purify (self), make reconciliation, (cause, make) sin(-ful, -ness), trespass. See also: Genesis 20:6; 1 Kings 15:34; Psalms 4:5.

עֹשֶׂ֥ה ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" V-Qal

This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.

Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made

Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.

רָ֛ע raʻ H7451 "bad" Adj

Ra means bad or evil, referring to moral or natural harm. It describes adversity, affliction, or distress, and is often used to convey a sense of misery or injury.

Definition: : harmful adj 1) bad, evil 1a) bad, disagreeable, malignant 1b) bad, unpleasant, evil (giving pain, unhappiness, misery) 1c) evil, displeasing 1d) bad (of its kind-land, water, etc) 1e) bad (of value) 1f) worse than, worst (comparison) 1g) sad, unhappy 1h) evil (hurtful) 1i) bad, unkind (vicious in disposition) 1j) bad, evil, wicked (ethically) 1j1) in general, of persons, of thoughts 1j2) deeds, actions

Usage: Occurs in 623 OT verses. KJV: adversity, affliction, bad, calamity, [phrase] displease(-ure), distress, evil((-favouredness), man, thing), [phrase] exceedingly, [idiom] great, grief(-vous), harm, heavy, hurt(-ful), ill (favoured), [phrase] mark, mischief(-vous), misery, naught(-ty), noisome, [phrase] not please, sad(-ly), sore, sorrow, trouble, vex, wicked(-ly, -ness, one), worse(-st), wretchedness, wrong. (Incl. feminine raaah; as adjective or noun.). See also: Genesis 2:9; Judges 9:57; 2 Kings 21:6.

מְאַ֖ת mêʼâh H3967 "hundred" Adj

Means a hundred, used as a simple number or part of a larger number in the Bible. It appears in various forms, including fractions like one one-hundredth. Found in books like Genesis and Psalms.

Definition: 1) hundred 1a) as simple number 1b) as part of larger number 1c) as a fraction-one one-hundredth (1/100) Aramaic equivalent: me.ah (מְאָה "hundred" H3969)

Usage: Occurs in 511 OT verses. KJV: hundred((-fold), -th), [phrase] sixscore. See also: Genesis 5:3; Numbers 2:6; Judges 18:17.

וּ/מַאֲרִ֣יךְ ʼârak H748 "to prolong" Conj | V-Hiphil

This verb means to prolong or make something long, whether it's a physical object, a period of time, or a person's life, as seen in the book of Genesis where God prolongs the lives of the patriarchs. In Exodus, it describes the lengthening of the Israelites' stay in Egypt.

Definition: 1) to be long, prolong 1a) (Qal) to be long 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to prolong (days) 1b2) to make long (tent cords) 1b3) to grow long, continue long Aramaic equivalent: a.rakh (אֲרִיךְ "be proper" H0749)

Usage: Occurs in 34 OT verses. KJV: defer, draw out, lengthen, (be, become, make, pro-) long, [phrase] (out-, over-) live, tarry (long). See also: Genesis 26:8; 1 Kings 3:14; Psalms 129:3.

ל֑/וֹ "" Prep | Suff

כִּ֚י kîy H3588 "for" Conj

A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.

Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.

גַּם gam H1571 "also" DirObjM

Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.

Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike

Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.

יוֹדֵ֣עַ yâdaʻ H3045 "to know" V-Qal

The Hebrew word for to know means to ascertain by seeing, and is used in many senses, including to learn, perceive, and recognize, as seen in various KJV translations.

Definition: 1) to know 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to know 1a1a) to know, learn to know 1a1b) to perceive 1a1c) to perceive and see, find out and discern 1a1d) to discriminate, distinguish 1a1e) to know by experience 1a1f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess 1a1g) to consider 1a2) to know, be acquainted with 1a3) to know (a person carnally) 1a4) to know how, be skilful in 1a5) to have knowledge, be wise 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed 1b2) to make oneself known 1b3) to be perceived 1b4) to be instructed 1c) (Piel) to cause to know 1d) (Poal) to cause to know 1e) (Pual) 1e1) to be known 1e2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle) 1f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare 1g) (Hophal) to be made known 1h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself Aramaic equivalent: ye.da (יְדַע "to know" H3046)

Usage: Occurs in 874 OT verses. KJV: acknowledge, acquaintance(-ted with), advise, answer, appoint, assuredly, be aware, (un-) awares, can(-not), certainly, comprehend, consider, [idiom] could they, cunning, declare, be diligent, (can, cause to) discern, discover, endued with, familiar friend, famous, feel, can have, be (ig-) norant, instruct, kinsfolk, kinsman, (cause to let, make) know, (come to give, have, take) knowledge, have (knowledge), (be, make, make to be, make self) known, [phrase] be learned, [phrase] lie by man, mark, perceive, privy to, [idiom] prognosticator, regard, have respect, skilful, shew, can (man of) skill, be sure, of a surety, teach, (can) tell, understand, have (understanding), [idiom] will be, wist, wit, wot. See also: Genesis 3:5; Leviticus 5:4; Judges 21:12.

אָ֔נִי ʼănîy H589 "I" Pron

This Hebrew word is a simple way of saying 'I' or 'me', often used for emphasis. It is used by people like David in the Psalms to express their thoughts and feelings. The word is a basic part of the Hebrew language.

Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis)

Usage: Occurs in 803 OT verses. KJV: I, (as for) me, mine, myself, we, [idiom] which, [idiom] who. See also: Genesis 6:17; Leviticus 19:36; 1 Samuel 25:24.

אֲשֶׁ֤ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

יִהְיֶה hâyâh H1961 "to be" V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

The Hebrew word for to be means to exist or come into being. It is used to describe something that happens or comes to pass, like in Genesis where God creates the world.

Definition: 1) to be, become, come to pass, exist, happen, fall out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) --- 1a1a) to happen, fall out, occur, take place, come about, come to pass 1a1b) to come about, come to pass 1a2) to come into being, become 1a2a) to arise, appear, come 1a2b) to become 1a2b1) to become 1a2b2) to become like 1a2b3) to be instituted, be established 1a3) to be 1a3a) to exist, be in existence 1a3b) to abide, remain, continue (with word of place or time) 1a3c) to stand, lie, be in, be at, be situated (with word of locality) 1a3d) to accompany, be with 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to occur, come to pass, be done, be brought about 1b2) to be done, be finished, be gone

Usage: Occurs in 3131 OT verses. KJV: beacon, [idiom] altogether, be(-come), accomplished, committed, like), break, cause, come (to pass), do, faint, fall, [phrase] follow, happen, [idiom] have, last, pertain, quit (one-) self, require, [idiom] use. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 17:4; Genesis 36:11.

טּוֹב֙ ṭôwb H2896 "pleasant" Adj

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means good or welfare, describing something that is beneficial or pleasing, like a good deed or a happy time. It is used in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms. This word is often translated as 'good' or 'beautiful'.

Definition: adj 1) good, pleasant, agreeable 1a) pleasant, agreeable (to the senses) 1b) pleasant (to the higher nature) 1c) good, excellent (of its kind) 1d) good, rich, valuable in estimation 1e) good, appropriate, becoming 1f) better (comparative) 1g) glad, happy, prosperous (of man's sensuous nature) 1h) good understanding (of man's intellectual nature) 1i) good, kind, benign 1j) good, right (ethical) Aramaic equivalent: tav (טָב "fine" H2869)

Usage: Occurs in 521 OT verses. KJV: beautiful, best, better, bountiful, cheerful, at ease, [idiom] fair (word), (be in) favour, fine, glad, good (deed, -lier, -liest, -ly, -ness, -s), graciously, joyful, kindly, kindness, liketh (best), loving, merry, [idiom] most, pleasant, [phrase] pleaseth, pleasure, precious, prosperity, ready, sweet, wealth, welfare, (be) well(-favoured). See also: Genesis 1:4; Ruth 2:22; 2 Chronicles 3:8.

לְ/יִרְאֵ֣י yârêʼ H3372 "to fear" Prep | Adj

This Hebrew word means to fear or revere, and is used to describe being afraid or standing in awe of something, like God's power. It appears in the Bible to convey a sense of respect or reverence. In the KJV, it's translated as 'affright' or 'reverence'.

Definition: : frightening(DANGER) 1) to fear, revere, be afraid 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to fear, be afraid 1a2) to stand in awe of, be awed 1a3) to fear, reverence, honour, respect 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be fearful, be dreadful, be feared 1b2) to cause astonishment and awe, be held in awe 1b3) to inspire reverence or godly fear or awe 1c) (Piel) to make afraid, terrify 2) (TWOT) to shoot, pour

Usage: Occurs in 318 OT verses. KJV: affright, be (make) afraid, dread(-ful), (put in) fear(-ful, -fully, -ing), (be had in) reverence(-end), [idiom] see, terrible (act, -ness, thing). See also: Genesis 3:10; 1 Samuel 12:18; Psalms 3:7.

הָ/אֱלֹהִ֔ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" Art | N-mp

The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.

Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.

אֲשֶׁ֥ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

יִֽירְא֖וּ yârêʼ H3372 "to fear" V-Qal-Imperf-3mp

מִ/לְּ/פָנָֽי/ו pânîym H6440 "face" Prep | Prep | N-cp | Suff

This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.

Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of

Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.

Study Notes — Ecclesiastes 8:12

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Context — Fear God

10Then too, I saw the burial of the wicked who used to go in and out of the holy place, and they were praised in the city where they had done so. This too is futile. 11When the sentence for a crime is not speedily executed, the hearts of men become fully set on doing evil.

12Although a sinner does evil a hundred times and still lives long, yet I also know that it will go well with those who fear God, who are reverent in His presence.

13Yet because the wicked do not fear God, it will not go well with them, and their days will not lengthen like a shadow. 14There is a futility that is done on the earth: There are righteous men who get what the actions of the wicked deserve, and there are wicked men who get what the actions of the righteous deserve. I say that this too is futile.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Psalms 37:11	But the meek will inherit the land and delight in abundant prosperity.
2	2 Peter 2:9	if all this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials and to hold the unrighteous for punishment on the day of judgment.
3	Luke 1:50	His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation.
4	Ecclesiastes 7:15	In my futile life I have seen both of these: A righteous man perishing in his righteousness, and a wicked man living long in his wickedness.
5	Isaiah 3:10–11	Tell the righteous it will be well with them, for they will enjoy the fruit of their labor. Woe to the wicked; disaster is upon them! For they will be repaid with what their hands have done.
6	Ecclesiastes 3:14	I know that everything God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God does it so that they should fear Him.
7	Psalms 37:18–19	The LORD knows the days of the blameless, and their inheritance will last forever. In the time of evil they will not be ashamed, and in the days of famine they will be satisfied.
8	Romans 9:22	What if God, intending to show His wrath and make His power known, bore with great patience the vessels of His wrath, prepared for destruction?
9	Isaiah 65:20–24	No longer will a nursing infant live but a few days, or an old man fail to live out his years. For the youth will die at a hundred years, and he who fails to reach a hundred will be considered accursed. They will build houses and dwell in them; they will plant vineyards and eat their fruit. No longer will they build houses for others to inhabit, nor plant for others to eat. For as is the lifetime of a tree, so will be the days of My people, and My chosen ones will fully enjoy the work of their hands. They will not labor in vain or bear children doomed to disaster; for they will be a people blessed by the LORD— they and their descendants with them. Even before they call, I will answer, and while they are still speaking, I will hear.
10	Proverbs 1:32–33	For the waywardness of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them. But whoever listens to me will dwell in safety, secure from the fear of evil.”

Ecclesiastes 8:12 Summary

This verse reminds us that even though it may seem like people who do bad things get away with it and live long lives, God is still in control and will ultimately bring justice. Those who respect and obey God can expect a blessed life, not because they deserve it, but because of God's love and mercy, as seen in Psalm 37:3-4. We can trust that God is good and just, and that He will take care of us if we follow Him, as described in Matthew 6:33-34. By focusing on pleasing God and living for eternity, we can have peace and hope, even in uncertain times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does it seem like sinners often live long and prosperous lives, while the righteous suffer?

This is a common observation throughout history, but as Ecclesiastes 8:12 notes, it's also important to remember that God's judgment is not always immediate, and our present circumstances don't necessarily determine our eternal fate, as seen in Psalm 73:17-20.

What does it mean to 'fear God' in this verse?

To fear God means to have a deep reverence and respect for Him, recognizing His power and authority, as described in Proverbs 1:7, and to live in obedience to His commands, as seen in Deuteronomy 10:12-13.

How can I balance the idea of God's judgment with His love and mercy?

While God is a just Judge, as seen in Hebrews 12:29, He is also a loving Father, as described in 1 John 3:1, and His mercy and love are available to all who come to Him in repentance and faith, as seen in Romans 5:8.

What is the relationship between reverence for God and a long, prosperous life?

According to Ecclesiastes 8:12, those who fear God and are reverent in His presence can expect a blessed life, but this is not always a guarantee of earthly prosperity, as seen in Job 1:1-3, and our focus should be on pleasing God and living for eternity, not just this life, as described in 2 Corinthians 4:18.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I can cultivate a deeper reverence for God in my daily life?
How do I balance my desire for justice and punishment for sinners with God's call to love and forgive them?
What are some areas in my life where I may be taking God's patience and mercy for granted, and how can I repent and turn back to Him?
In what ways can I trust God's sovereignty and goodness, even when I don't understand why sinners seem to prosper and the righteous suffer?

Gill's Exposition on Ecclesiastes 8:12

Though a sinner do evil an hundred times,.... That is ever so many times, a certain number for an uncertain; though he lives in a continued course of sin, being resolved upon the above consideration

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ecclesiastes 8:12

Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his days be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him: Though a sinner do evil an hundred times

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:12

An hundred times; frequently and innumerably. His days; the time of his life and prosperity. It shall be well with them that fear God; whereby he implies, both that good men might for a time suffer grievous things from such wicked tyrants, and that it should be very ill with the wicked, which is manifest from the contrary course and condition of good and bad men, and which is expressed in the following words: compare . Before him; or, at his presence; who stand in awe of God, and forbear and fear to sin out of a sincere respect and reverence to God.

Trapp's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:12

Ecclesiastes 8:12 Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his [days] be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him:Ver. 12. Though a sinner doth evil an hundred times.] Commit the same sin a hundred times over, which is no small aggravation of his sin, as numbers added to numbers are first ten times more, then a hundred, then a thousand, &c. And truly a sinner left to himself would sin in infinitum, which may be one reason of the infinite torments of hell; he can set no bounds to himself, till he hecome a brat of fathomless perdition; the devil commits that sin "unto death" every day, and oft in the day. His imps also resemble him herein. Hence their sins are mortal, saith St John, rather immortal, as saith St Paul. And his days be prolonged.] By the long sufferance of God, which is so great, that Jonah was displeased at it. Averroes turned atheist upon it. But Micah admires it, and Moses makes excellent use of it, when he prays, "O Lord, let my Lord, I pray thee, go along with us, for it is a stiff-necked people." As who should say, None but a god is able to endure this perverse people; my patience and meekness is far too short; and yet Moses, by God’ s own testimony, was the meekest man upon earth. That the vilest of men may live a long while is evident; but for no goodwill that God bears them, but that, heaping up sin, they may heap up wrath, and by abuse of Divine patience, be fitted for the hottest fire in hell, as stubble laid out drying, or as grapes let hang in the sunshine, till ripe for the winepress of wrath. Surely as one day of man’ s life is to be preferred before the longest life of a stag or a raven; so one day spent religiously is far better than a hundred years spent wickedly. Non refert quanta sit vitae diuturnitas, sed qualis sit administratio, saith Vives. The business is not how long, but how well any man liveth. Jerome reads this verse thus, Quia peccator facit malura centies, et elongat ei Deus, ex hoc cognosco ego, &c.: Because a sinner doeth evil a hundred times, and God doth lengthen his days unto him, from hence I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, &c. And he sets this sense upon it - Inasmuch as God so long spares wretched sinners, waiting their return, he will surely be good to pious persons. Symmachus, Aquila, and Theodotion read it thus: Peccans enim malus mortuus est, longa aetate concessa ei, An evil man sinning is dead, a long age being granted to him: dead he is in sin, though his days be prolonged.

Ellicott's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:12

(12) Though.—Better, Because; the first part of this verse being in continuation of the preceding. The latter part of the verse states the faith which the writer holds in spite of apparent contrary experience.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:12

Verse 12. Though a sinner do evil a hundred times] If God bear so long with a transgressor, waiting in his longsuffering for him to repent and turn to him, surely he will be peculiarly kind to them that fear him, and endeavour to walk uprightly before him.

Cambridge Bible on Ecclesiastes 8:12

12. Though a sinner do evil an hundred times] The definite number is used, of course, as in Proverbs 17:10; or the “hundred years” of Isaiah 65:20; or the “seventy times seven” of Matthew 18:22, for the indefinite. There is no adequate reason for inserting “years” instead of “times.” By some grammarians it is maintained that the conjunctions should be read “Because a sinner …” and “although I know,” but the Authorised Version is supported by high authority. yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God] The adverb “surely” has nothing answering to it in the Hebrew, and seems an attempt to represent the emphasis of the Hebrew pronoun. Better, perhaps, I for my part. We may compare the manner in which Ζschylus utters a like truth on the moral government of the world: δίχαδʼ ? ἄλλωνμονόφρωνεἰμί. τὸγὰρδυσσεβὲςἔργονμετὰμὲνπλείονατίκτει, σφετέρᾳδʼ ? εἰκόταγέννᾳ.“But I, apart from all,Hold this my creed alone:For impious act it is that offspring breeds,Like to their parent stock.”Agam. 757, 8. There is an obviously intentional contrast between what the thinker has seen (Ecclesiastes 8:9), and what he now says he knows as by an intuitive conviction. His faith is gaining strength, and he believes, though, it may be, with no sharply defined notion as to time and manner, that the righteousness of God, which seems to be thwarted by the anomalies of the world, will in the long run assert itself. There is at least an inward peace with those who fear God, which no tyrant or oppressor can interfere with. The seeming tautology of the last clause is best explained by supposing that the term “God-fearers” had become (as in Malachi 3:16) the distinctive name of a religious class, such as the Chasidim (the “Assideans” of 1Ma 2:42; 1Ma 7:13; 2Ma 14:6), or “devout ones” were in the time of the Maccabees. The Debater, with the keen scent for the weaknesses of a hypocritical formalism, which we have seen in ch. Ecclesiastes 5:1-7, says with emphatic iteration, as it were, “when I say ‘God-fearing’ I mean those that do fear God in reality as well as name.” So in French men talk of la vιritι vraie, or we might speak of “a liberal indeed liberal,” “religious people who are religious,” and so on.

Barnes' Notes on Ecclesiastes 8:12

His days be prolonged - i. e., in his wickedness Ecclesiastes 8:8. “I” is emphatic, as if to mark the opposition to the “sons of men” Ecclesiastes 8:11.

Whedon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:12

12. Though — Better, Because. A hundred times — The Hebrew says, “A hundred.” We may supply “times” or years. Seeing it is long delay which is spoken of, years is better.

Sermons on Ecclesiastes 8:12

	Sermon	Description
	The Righteous Man's Weal—and the Wicked Man's Woe by Thomas Watson	Thomas Watson preaches about the contrasting destinies of the righteous and the wicked as depicted in Isaiah 3:10-11. He emphasizes that while the righteous will ultimately be rewa
	The New Quest and Law of Life. 7:1-29 by W.J. Erdman	In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the Preacher embarks on a new quest to discover 'the Good' in a high law for life under the sun, possibly found in the fear of God. He seeks wisdom a
	Psalms - Part 1 by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of filling one's heart with the Word of God rather than simply avoiding evil. He references the story of a demon being cast ou
	Sermon on the Mount: Blesseded Meek by J. Glyn Owen	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the leadership of Moses and his strength in leading the Israelites out of slavery. The speaker emphasizes that Moses had to be strong in order
	Christ's Legacy of Peace by Bob Jennings	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of truly believing and trusting in God in order to experience peace. He shares a personal anecdote about his wife reminding h
	(How to Understand the Kjv Bible) 45 Psalm 37 by Keith Simons	Keith Simons teaches on Psalm 37, emphasizing David's reflections on the fate of the righteous versus the wicked. He encourages believers not to fret over evildoers, as their prosp
	Meekness by Michael Koulianos	Michael Koulianos emphasizes the significance of meekness in the Christian life, drawing parallels between biblical figures like Moses and David to illustrate how a soft heart is e