Ecclesiastes 8:15
Ecclesiastes 8:15 in Multiple Translations
So I commended the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be merry. For this joy will accompany him in his labor during the days of his life that God gives him under the sun.
Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.
Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be joyful: for that shall abide with him in his labor all the days of his life which God hath given him under the sun.
So I gave praise to joy, because there is nothing better for a man to do under the sun than to take meat and drink and be happy; for that will be with him in his work all the days of his life which God gives him under the sun.
So I recommend enjoying life. There's nothing better for us here on earth than to eat and drink and be happy. Such an attitude will go with us as we work, and as we live our lives that God gives us here on earth.
And I praysed ioy: for there is no goodnesse to man vnder the sunne, saue to eate and to drinke and to reioyce: for this is adioyned to his labour, the dayes of his life that God hath giuen him vnder the sunne.
And I have praised mirth because there is no good to man under the sun except to eat and to drink, and to rejoice, and it remaineth with him of his labour the days of his life that God hath given to him under the sun.
Then I commended mirth, because a man has no better thing under the sun than to eat, to drink, and to be joyful: for that will accompany him in his labor all the days of his life which God has given him under the sun.
Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labor the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.
Therefore I commended mirth, because there was no good for a man under the sun, but to eat, and drink, and be merry, and that he should take nothing else with him of his labour in the days of his life, which God hath given him under the sun.
So I decided that I would recommend that people be happy while they are alive, because the best thing that people can do here on this earth is to eat and drink and be happy. Enjoying doing those things will help people while they do their work, all the time that God has given to them to remain alive here on the earth.
Berean Amplified Bible — Ecclesiastes 8:15
BAB
Word Study
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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 8:15 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/שִׁבַּ֤חְתִּֽי
אֲנִי֙
אֶת
הַ/שִּׂמְחָ֔ה
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
אֵֽין
ט֤וֹב
לָֽ/אָדָם֙
תַּ֣חַת
הַ/שֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ
כִּ֛י
אִם
לֶ/אֱכ֥וֹל
וְ/לִ/שְׁתּ֖וֹת
וְ/לִ/שְׂמ֑וֹחַ
וְ/ה֞וּא
יִלְוֶ֣/נּוּ
בַ/עֲמָל֗/וֹ
יְמֵ֥י
חַיָּ֛י/ו
אֲשֶׁר
נָֽתַן
ל֥/וֹ
הָ/אֱלֹהִ֖ים
תַּ֥חַת
הַ/שָּֽׁמֶשׁ
וְ/שִׁבַּ֤חְתִּֽי
shâbach
H7623
to soothe
Conj | V-Piel-Perf-1cs
אֲנִי֙
ʼănîy
H589
I
Pron
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
הַ/שִּׂמְחָ֔ה
simchâh
H8057
joy
Art | N-fs
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
אֵֽין
ʼayin
H369
nothing
Part
ט֤וֹב
ṭôwb
H2896
pleasant
Adj
לָֽ/אָדָם֙
ʼâdâm
H120
the man (Adam)
Prep | N-ms
תַּ֣חַת
tachath
H8478
underneath
Prep
הַ/שֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ
shemesh
H8121
sun
Art | N-cs
כִּ֛י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
אִם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj
לֶ/אֱכ֥וֹל
ʼâkal
H398
to eat
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
וְ/לִ/שְׁתּ֖וֹת
shâthâh
H8354
to drink
Conj | Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
וְ/לִ/שְׂמ֑וֹחַ
sâmach
H8055
to rejoice
Conj | Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
וְ/ה֞וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Conj | Pron
יִלְוֶ֣/נּוּ
lâvâh
H3867
to join
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms | Suff
בַ/עֲמָל֗/וֹ
ʻâmâl
H5999
trouble
Prep | N-cs | Suff
יְמֵ֥י
yôwm
H3117
day
N-mp
חַיָּ֛י/ו
chay
H2416
alive
N-mp | Suff
אֲשֶׁר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
נָֽתַן
nâthan
H5414
to give
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
ל֥/וֹ
Prep | Suff
הָ/אֱלֹהִ֖ים
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
God
Art | N-mp
תַּ֥חַת
tachath
H8478
underneath
Prep
הַ/שָּֽׁמֶשׁ
shemesh
H8121
sun
Art | N-cs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Ecclesiastes 8:15
וְ/שִׁבַּ֤חְתִּֽי
shâbach
H7623
"to soothe"
Conj | V-Piel-Perf-1cs
This verb means to praise or commend, often in a loud voice. In Psalm 63:3, David praises God with his voice. The KJV translates it as 'praise' or 'commend'.
Definition: 1) to soothe, still, stroke 1a) (Piel) to soothe, still 1b) (Hiphil) stilling (participle)
Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: commend, glory, keep in, praise, still, triumph. See also: 1 Chronicles 16:35; Psalms 117:1; Psalms 63:4.
אֲנִי֙
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.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
הַ/שִּׂמְחָ֔ה
simchâh
H8057
"joy"
Art | N-fs
This Hebrew word means joy or gladness, often used to describe a happy occasion or celebration, like a festival. It's used in the Bible to express God's joy and pleasure. In the KJV, it's translated as joy, gladness, or mirth.
Definition: 1) joy, mirth, gladness 1a) mirth, gladness, joy, gaiety, pleasure 1b) joy (of God) 1c) glad result, happy issue
Usage: Occurs in 89 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] exceeding(-ly), gladness, joy(-fulness), mirth, pleasure, rejoice(-ing). See also: Genesis 31:27; Psalms 106:5; Psalms 4:8.
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
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.
אֵֽין
ʼayin
H369
"nothing"
Part
This word means nothing or not, often used to indicate the absence of something, as in Genesis 1:2 where the earth was without form. It emphasizes the idea of something lacking or non-existent.
Definition: 1) nothing, not, nought n 1a) nothing, nought neg 1b) not 1c) to have not (of possession) adv 1d) without w/prep 1e) for lack of
Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: else, except, fail, (father-) less, be gone, in(-curable), neither, never, no (where), none, nor, (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un(-searchable), well-nigh, without. Compare H370 (אַיִן). See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 14:27; 1 Kings 15:22.
ט֤וֹב
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.
לָֽ/אָדָם֙
ʼâdâm
H120
"the man (Adam)"
Prep | N-ms
Adam was the first human, created by God and mentioned in Genesis 2:19, who married Eve and had sons including Cain, Abel, and Seth.
Definition: The first named man living at the time before the Flood, first mentioned at Gen.2.19; married to Eve (H2332); father of: Cain (H7014B), Abel (H1893) and Seth (H8352); also translated "man" at Gen.2.19,21,23; 3.8,9,20; 5.2; "mankind" at Deu.32.8; "others" at Job.31.33; Another spelling of a.dam (אָדָם "Adam" H0121) man, human being
Usage: Occurs in 526 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] another, [phrase] hypocrite, [phrase] common sort, [idiom] low, man (mean, of low degree), person. See also: Genesis 1:26; Judges 18:7; Psalms 8:5.
תַּ֣חַת
tachath
H8478
"underneath"
Prep
This Hebrew word means underneath or below, often used to describe physical locations or positions. It appears in various books, including Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to indicate something is under or beneath something else. The word has several related meanings.
Definition: : under/below 1) the under part, beneath, instead of, as, for, for the sake of, flat, unto, where, whereas n m 1a) the under part adv accus 1b) beneath prep 1c) under, beneath 1c1) at the foot of (idiom) 1c2) sweetness, subjection, woman, being burdened or oppressed (fig) 1c3) of subjection or conquest 1d) what is under one, the place in which one stands 1d1) in one's place, the place in which one stands (idiom with reflexive pronoun) 1d2) in place of, instead of (in transferred sense) 1d3) in place of, in exchange or return for (of things mutually interchanged) conj 1e) instead of, instead of that 1f) in return for that, because that in compounds 1g) in, under, into the place of (after verbs of motion) 1h) from under, from beneath, from under the hand of, from his place, under, beneath
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: as, beneath, [idiom] flat, in(-stead), (same) place (where...is), room, for...sake, stead of, under, [idiom] unto, [idiom] when...was mine, whereas, (where-) fore, with. See also: Genesis 1:7; Deuteronomy 7:24; 1 Kings 20:42.
הַ/שֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ
shemesh
H8121
"sun"
Art | N-cs
The sun, or shemesh, represents not just the celestial body, but also east or west direction, and even objects that shine like battlements. It is often used to describe the rising or setting of the sun.
Definition: 1) sun 1a) sun 1b) sunrise, sun-rising, east, sun-setting, west (of direction) 1c) sun (as object of illicit worship) 1d) openly, publicly (in other phrases) 1e) pinnacles, battlements, shields (as glittering or shining)
Usage: Occurs in 127 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] east side(-ward), sun (rising), [phrase] west(-ward), window. See also H1053 (בֵּית שֶׁמֶשׁ). See also: Genesis 15:12; Psalms 104:19; Psalms 19:5.
כִּ֛י
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.
אִם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
לֶ/אֱכ֥וֹל
ʼâkal
H398
"to eat"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This word means to eat or devour, and it's used in many stories, including when Jesus fed the 5000 with fish and bread in the book of Matthew. It's about taking in nourishment and being satisfied.
Definition: 1) to eat, devour, burn up, feed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to eat (human subject) 1a2) to eat, devour (of beasts and birds) 1a3) to devour, consume (of fire) 1a4) to devour, slay (of sword) 1a5) to devour, consume, destroy (inanimate subjects - ie, pestilence, drought) 1a6) to devour (of oppression) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be eaten (by men) 1b2) to be devoured, consumed (of fire) 1b3) to be wasted, destroyed (of flesh) 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to cause to eat, feed with 1c2) to cause to devour 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to feed 1d2) to cause to eat 1e) (Piel) 1e1) consume Aramaic equivalent: a.khal (אֲכַל "to devour" H0399)
Usage: Occurs in 703 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, burn up, consume, devour(-er, up), dine, eat(-er, up), feed (with), food, [idiom] freely, [idiom] in...wise(-deed, plenty), (lay) meat, [idiom] quite. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 6:9; Numbers 24:8.
וְ/לִ/שְׁתּ֖וֹת
shâthâh
H8354
"to drink"
Conj | Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to drink, and it's used in many ways, like drinking from a cup or feasting. It's also used to describe being drunk or taking part in a big celebration. We see it in stories like the Last Supper in Matthew 26:27.
Definition: 1) to drink 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to drink 1a1a) of drinking cup of God's wrath, of slaughter, of wicked deeds (fig) 1a2) to feast 1b) (Niphal) to be drunk Aramaic equivalent: she.tah (שְׁתָה "to drink" H8355)
Usage: Occurs in 193 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] assuredly, banquet, [idiom] certainly, drink(-er, -ing), drunk ([idiom] -ard), surely. (Prop. intensive of H8248 (שָׁקָה).) See also: Genesis 9:21; 2 Kings 19:24; Psalms 50:13.
וְ/לִ/שְׂמ֑וֹחַ
sâmach
H8055
"to rejoice"
Conj | Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This verb means to rejoice or be glad, often used in a religious sense, like when the Israelites rejoiced at the dedication of the temple in 1 Kings 8:66.
Definition: 1) to rejoice, be glad 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to rejoice 1a2) to rejoice (arrogantly), exult (at) 1a3) to rejoice (religiously) 1b) (Piel) to cause to rejoice, gladden, make glad 1c) (Hiphil) to cause to rejoice, gladden, make glad
Usage: Occurs in 148 OT verses. KJV: cheer up, be (make) glad, (have, make) joy(-ful), be (make) merry, (cause to, make to) rejoice, [idiom] very. See also: Exodus 4:14; Psalms 92:5; Psalms 5:12.
וְ/ה֞וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Conj | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
יִלְוֶ֣/נּוּ
lâvâh
H3867
"to join"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms | Suff
This Hebrew word means to borrow or lend, implying a sense of obligation, as seen in various Bible translations, including abide with or join self.
Definition: 1) to join, be joined 1a) (Qal) to join, be joined, attend 1b) (Niphal) to join oneself to, be joined unto
Usage: Occurs in 22 OT verses. KJV: abide with, borrow(-er), cleave, join (self), lend(-er). See also: Genesis 29:34; Psalms 112:5; Psalms 37:21.
בַ/עֲמָל֗/וֹ
ʻâmâl
H5999
"trouble"
Prep | N-cs | Suff
This word refers to trouble or hard work that causes worry or pain, whether physical or mental, like the struggles of the Israelites in the book of Exodus.
Definition: 1) toil, trouble, labour 1a) trouble 1b) trouble, mischief 1c) toil, labour
Usage: Occurs in 54 OT verses. KJV: grievance(-vousness), iniquity, labour, mischief, miserable(-sery), pain(-ful), perverseness, sorrow, toil, travail, trouble, wearisome, wickedness. See also: Genesis 41:51; Ecclesiastes 1:3; Psalms 7:15.
יְמֵ֥י
yôwm
H3117
"day"
N-mp
The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow
Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.
חַיָּ֛י/ו
chay
H2416
"alive"
N-mp | Suff
In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.
Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.
אֲשֶׁר
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.
נָֽתַן
nâthan
H5414
"to give"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
This word means to give, put, or set something, with a wide range of applications. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, describing God's actions and human interactions. The word is used to convey giving, selling, or exchanging something.
Definition: : give/deliver/send/produce 1) to give, put, set 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to give, bestow, grant, permit, ascribe, employ, devote, consecrate, dedicate, pay wages, sell, exchange, lend, commit, entrust, give over, deliver up, yield produce, occasion, produce, requite to, report, mention, utter, stretch out, extend 1a2) to put, set, put on, put upon, set, appoint, assign, designate 1a3) to make, constitute 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be given, be bestowed, be provided, be entrusted to, be granted to, be permitted, be issued, be published, be uttered, be assigned 1b2) to be set, be put, be made, be inflicted 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be given, be bestowed, be given up, be delivered up 1c2) to be put upon
Usage: Occurs in 1816 OT verses. KJV: add, apply, appoint, ascribe, assign, [idiom] avenge, [idiom] be (healed), bestow, bring (forth, hither), cast, cause, charge, come, commit, consider, count, [phrase] cry, deliver (up), direct, distribute, do, [idiom] doubtless, [idiom] without fail, fasten, frame, [idiom] get, give (forth, over, up), grant, hang (up), [idiom] have, [idiom] indeed, lay (unto charge, up), (give) leave, lend, let (out), [phrase] lie, lift up, make, [phrase] O that, occupy, offer, ordain, pay, perform, place, pour, print, [idiom] pull, put (forth), recompense, render, requite, restore, send (out), set (forth), shew, shoot forth (up), [phrase] sing, [phrase] slander, strike, (sub-) mit, suffer, [idiom] surely, [idiom] take, thrust, trade, turn, utter, [phrase] weep, [phrase] willingly, [phrase] withdraw, [phrase] would (to) God, yield. See also: Genesis 1:17; Genesis 40:21; Exodus 30:12.
ל֥/וֹ
""
Prep | Suff
הָ/אֱלֹהִ֖ים
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.
תַּ֥חַת
tachath
H8478
"underneath"
Prep
This Hebrew word means underneath or below, often used to describe physical locations or positions. It appears in various books, including Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to indicate something is under or beneath something else. The word has several related meanings.
Definition: : under/below 1) the under part, beneath, instead of, as, for, for the sake of, flat, unto, where, whereas n m 1a) the under part adv accus 1b) beneath prep 1c) under, beneath 1c1) at the foot of (idiom) 1c2) sweetness, subjection, woman, being burdened or oppressed (fig) 1c3) of subjection or conquest 1d) what is under one, the place in which one stands 1d1) in one's place, the place in which one stands (idiom with reflexive pronoun) 1d2) in place of, instead of (in transferred sense) 1d3) in place of, in exchange or return for (of things mutually interchanged) conj 1e) instead of, instead of that 1f) in return for that, because that in compounds 1g) in, under, into the place of (after verbs of motion) 1h) from under, from beneath, from under the hand of, from his place, under, beneath
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: as, beneath, [idiom] flat, in(-stead), (same) place (where...is), room, for...sake, stead of, under, [idiom] unto, [idiom] when...was mine, whereas, (where-) fore, with. See also: Genesis 1:7; Deuteronomy 7:24; 1 Kings 20:42.
הַ/שָּֽׁמֶשׁ
shemesh
H8121
"sun"
Art | N-cs
The sun, or shemesh, represents not just the celestial body, but also east or west direction, and even objects that shine like battlements. It is often used to describe the rising or setting of the sun.
Definition: 1) sun 1a) sun 1b) sunrise, sun-rising, east, sun-setting, west (of direction) 1c) sun (as object of illicit worship) 1d) openly, publicly (in other phrases) 1e) pinnacles, battlements, shields (as glittering or shining)
Usage: Occurs in 127 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] east side(-ward), sun (rising), [phrase] west(-ward), window. See also H1053 (בֵּית שֶׁמֶשׁ). See also: Genesis 15:12; Psalms 104:19; Psalms 19:5.
Study Notes — Ecclesiastes 8:15
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Ecclesiastes 8:15 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Ecclesiastes 8:15
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ecclesiastes 8:15
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:15
- Trapp's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:15
- Ellicott's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:15
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:15
- Cambridge Bible on Ecclesiastes 8:15
- Barnes' Notes on Ecclesiastes 8:15
- Whedon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:15
- Sermons on Ecclesiastes 8:15
Context — God’s Ways Are Mysterious
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.
15So I commended the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be merry. For this joy will accompany him in his labor during the days of his life that God gives him under the sun.
16When I applied my mind to know wisdom and to observe the task that one performs on the earth—though his eyes do not see sleep in the day or even in the night— 17I saw every work of God, and that a man is unable to comprehend the work that is done under the sun. Despite his efforts to search it out, he cannot find its meaning; even if the wise man claims to know, he is unable to comprehend.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecclesiastes 2:24 | Nothing is better for a man than to eat and drink and enjoy his work. I have also seen that this is from the hand of God. |
| 2 | Ecclesiastes 5:18 | Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting: to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in all the labor one does under the sun during the few days of life that God has given him—for this is his lot. |
| 3 | Ecclesiastes 3:12–13 | I know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice and do good while they live, and also that every man should eat and drink and find satisfaction in all his labor—this is the gift of God. |
| 4 | Ecclesiastes 9:7–9 | Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a cheerful heart, for God has already approved your works: Let your garments always be white, and never spare the oil for your head. Enjoy life with your beloved wife all the days of the fleeting life that God has given you under the sun—all your fleeting days. For this is your portion in life and in your labor under the sun. |
| 5 | 1 Timothy 6:17 | Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be conceited and not to put their hope in the uncertainty of wealth, but in God, who richly provides all things for us to enjoy. |
| 6 | 1 Timothy 4:3–4 | They will prohibit marriage and require abstinence from certain foods that God has created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. For every creation of God is good, and nothing that is received with thanksgiving should be rejected, |
| 7 | Ecclesiastes 3:22 | I have seen that there is nothing better for a man than to enjoy his work, because that is his lot. For who can bring him to see what will come after him? |
Ecclesiastes 8:15 Summary
This verse is saying that life is short, and we should enjoy the simple things that God gives us, like food, drink, and good company. It's not about being selfish or excessive, but about finding joy and contentment in the everyday gifts of God, as seen in Ecclesiastes 3:13. We can trust that God will give us the strength and joy we need to work and labor, and that He will be with us in all aspects of our lives, as seen in Matthew 6:25-34 and Psalm 16:11.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'eat and drink and be merry' in Ecclesiastes 8:15?
In this context, it means to find joy and contentment in the simple things of life, like food, drink, and celebration, as a gift from God, similar to what Jesus said in Luke 12:15 and 1 Timothy 6:17.
Is the author of Ecclesiastes promoting a hedonistic lifestyle?
No, the author is not promoting a life of excessive pleasure, but rather acknowledging that under the sun, there is no better way for a man to live than to find joy in the everyday gifts of God, as seen in Ecclesiastes 3:13 and Psalm 104:14-15.
How does this verse relate to the concept of work and labor?
The verse suggests that the joy of eating, drinking, and being merry will accompany a person in their labor, implying that even in the midst of hard work, one can find contentment and joy, as seen in Colossians 3:23-24 and 1 Corinthians 10:31.
What is the significance of 'the days of his life that God gives him under the sun'?
This phrase emphasizes that our lives and the length of our days are a gift from God, and we should make the most of the time He gives us, as seen in Psalm 90:12 and James 4:14.
Reflection Questions
- What are some simple pleasures in life that bring you joy, and how can you cultivate a sense of gratitude for them?
- How can you balance the idea of enjoying life with the reality of labor and hard work?
- In what ways can you trust God with the length and quality of your life, and find contentment in His sovereignty?
- What are some ways you can 'eat and drink and be merry' with others, and build meaningful relationships in the process?
Gill's Exposition on Ecclesiastes 8:15
Then I commended mirth,.... Innocent mirth, a cheerfulness of spirit in whatsoever state condition men are; serenity and tranquillity of mind, thankfulness for what they have, and a free and
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ecclesiastes 8:15
Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:15
This he speaks, either, 1. In the person of a sensual man. Things being so, as was related, , it is best to give a man’ s self up to eating and drinking, and all manner of carnal delights. Or, 2. In his own name and person. Upon these considerations I concluded that it was most advisable for a man not to perplex and torment himself with the thoughts of the seeming inequality of Divine Providence, and of the great disorders which are in the world, or with cares and fears about future events, or with infinite and insatiable desires of worldly things; but quietly, and cheerfully, and thankfully to enjoy the comforts which God gives him. See Poole " 3:12,13. That shall abide with him of his labour; this is the best advantage which he can make of this world’ s goods as to the present life.
Trapp's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:15
Ecclesiastes 8:15 Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.Ver. 15. Then I commended mirth.] A lawful lightsomeness and cheerfulness of heart, which maketh comforts to be much more comfortable, and troubles to be far less troublesome. Besides, acceptior est Deo grata laetitia quam diuturna quasi querula tristitia. Cheerfulness is better pleasing to God than sourness and sullenness: this provokes him to anger, as that which puts a man under the reign of continual unthankfulness - "Is any man merry? let him sing" - makes him exceeding liable to temptations and perplexities, disableth him to make benefit of ordinances, indisposeth and unfitteth him for duties of active or passive obedience, takes off the wheels of the soul, and makes it as awkward as a limb out of joint, that can do nothing without deformity and pain. Than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry.] Although it be the bread of sorrow that thou eatest, and the cup of affliction that thou drinkest, eat it, and drink it merrily. The Epicures held that a man might be cheerful amidst the most exquisite torments; (1.) In consideration of his honesty and fidelity, that he suffered for; (2.) In consideration of those pleasures and delights that formerly he had enjoyed, and now cheered up himself with the remembrance of. How much better may Christians do it in consideration of those unutterable joys and delights that they expect and hope for! Mendicato pane hic vivamus, &c., saith Luther. We may well be content, nay merry, though we should beg our bread here, to think that we shall one day feast with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. Bucholc.
Ellicott's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:15
(15) The writer returns to the sentiment expressed already (Ecclesiastes 2:24; Ecclesiastes 3:12; Ecclesiastes 3:22; Ecclesiastes 5:17). Eat, and to drink, and to be merry.—The three words occur together 1 Kings 4:20.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:15
Verse 15. Then I commended mirth] These are some more of the cavils of the infidel objector: "Since virtue is frequently under oppression, and vice triumphs in health, and rolls in wealth, I see plainly that we should not trouble ourselves about future things; and therefore should be governed by the maxim EDE, BIBE, LUDE. Post mortem nulla voluptas." Eat, drink, and play, While here you may; For soon as death Has stopp'd your breath, Ye ne'er shall see a cheerful day.
Cambridge Bible on Ecclesiastes 8:15
15. Then I commended mirth] As before in chs. Ecclesiastes 2:14, Ecclesiastes 3:12; Ecclesiastes 3:22, Ecclesiastes 5:18, the Epicurean element of thought mingles with the higher fear of God, to which the seeker had just risen. There, at least, in regulated enjoyment, free from vices, and not without the fear of God which keeps men from them, there was something tangible, and it was better to make the best of that than to pine, with unsatisfied desires, after the impossible ideal of a perfectly righteous government in which there are no anomalies. For “of his labour” read in his labour.
Barnes' Notes on Ecclesiastes 8:15
Mirth - Better, Gladness, or “joy” (as in Ecclesiastes 2:10). The Hebrew word is applied not only to the pleasures arising from the physical senses, but also frequently to religious joy.
Whedon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:15
15. I commended mirth — Koheleth has now reached the conclusion that, though prudence may regulate a life, it yet cannot affect the ways of providence or adjust the allotments of good and evil among men.
Sermons on Ecclesiastes 8:15
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
The Message of Ecclesiastes by G. Campbell Morgan | G. Campbell Morgan explores the profound message of Ecclesiastes, emphasizing the folly of living life without a true relationship with God. He highlights the misconceptions about |
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Take Up Your Cross and Follow Him (Part 1) by K.P. Yohannan | K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the contrast between worldly pleasure and true fulfillment, drawing from the teachings of King Solomon and the life of Moses. While Epicureanism promotes a |
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Analysis of Ecclesiastes by W.J. Erdman | W.J. Erdman preaches on the search for the Chief Good sought by the natural man through experience and observation of all things done 'Under the Sun.' The sermon is divided into tw |
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The Vanities of the Wise Experimenter. 2:1-26 by W.J. Erdman | In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the preacher delves into the journey of a Seeker who starts with youthful pleasure and mirth, seeking 'the good' in life's experiences but ultimately |
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Christian Recreation and Unchristian Amusement by T.L. Cuyler | T. L. Cuyler preaches about the importance of Christian recreation and the dangers of unchristian amusement, emphasizing the need for activities that strengthen the body, bring hap |
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A Time for Everything Part 2 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith explores the book of Ecclesiastes, specifically focusing on chapter 3, verse 12. He begins by acknowledging the fleeting nature of life and the e |
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Amusements by J.R. Miller | J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of amusement in the Christian life, arguing against the notion that all forms of pleasure are sinful. He highlights that true Christian joy re |