THEOSISGregory the Wonderworker
However, it is beyond human capability to comprehend anything, and one cannot discern what has transpired or what is to come. For who shall disclose this knowledge to him?
Ecclesiastes 10:14Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers
A fool multiplieth words. A man cannot tell what hath been before him: and what shall be after him, who can tell him?
וְהַסָּכָ֖ל יַרְבֶּ֣ה דְבָרִ֑ים לֹא־יֵדַ֤ע הָאָדָם֙ מַה־שֶׁיִּֽהְיֶ֔ה וַאֲשֶׁ֤ר יִֽהְיֶה֙ מֵֽאַחֲרָ֔יו מִ֖י יַגִּ֥יד לֽוֹ׃
The Church Fathers on this verse
3 Church Fathers comment on this verse
Nilus of Sinai
The term ‘behind’ in this context signifies the future. For instance, the Bible states, ‘Who shall declare’ to a person what will be ‘behind him’ (Ecclesiastes 10:14) — referring to what is to come after him. Additionally, Saul tells David, ‘I swear to you, that you shall not destroy my seed’ behind me (1 Sam. 24:22) — meaning, after my life has come to an end, you shall not eradicate my lineage.
Ireneus (Orda)
The heart imparts wisdom and strength to the discerning while the fool is constantly reproached in all that he utters and undertakes. The preacher validates this through personal observations, particularly concerning the dynamics between those in authority and their subordinates. The wrath and errors of leaders can lead to numerous negative outcomes; thus, it is essential to respond with tranquility and composure, as mistakes driven by anger can jeopardize all relationships, resulting in unfortunate repercussions for those beneath them. Following this, there are several proverbs that illustrate how folly ultimately harms the fool himself. It is unnecessary to engage in ventures that are known to be perilous; rather, one should focus on fulfilling obligations with wisdom.
Read more (128 words)
Possessing abilities is of no value if one does not apply them effectively, especially in the grip of foolishness. The utterances of a madman bring detriment upon himself; his words are devoid of reason. He tends to be verbose, while a wise individual exercises caution, understanding that outcomes cannot be foretold by himself or others. The sage treads a straight path, whereas the fool meanders. It is a troubling situation for a nation when youthful, reckless leaders seek only their personal gratification, neglecting the welfare of the state. The ramifications of such governance are dire, with societal disarray stemming from the negligence of leaders, mismanagement, and the corruption of officials who are financially desperate. Moreover, it is unwise to speak ill of authorities, as it poses serious risks.
Cross references
Passages read together with this verse.
- Prov 15:2The tongue of the wise adorneth knowledge: but the mouth of fools bubbleth out folly.
- Jas 4:13But who art thou that judgest thy neighbour? Behold, now you that say: To-day or to-morrow we will go into such a city, and there we will spend a year and will traffic and make our gain.
- Jas 4:14Whereas you know not what shall be on the morrow.
- Eccl 8:7Because he is ignorant of things past, and things to come he cannot know by any messenger.
- Eccl 3:22And I have found that nothing is better than for a man to rejoice in his work, and that this is his portion. For who shall bring him to know the things that shall be after him?
- Eccl 6:12
- Eccl 5:3If thou hast vowed any thing to God, defer not to pay it: for an unfaithful and foolish promise displeaseth him: but whatsoever thou hast vowed, pay it.
- Job 35:16Therefore Job openeth his mouth in vain, and multiplieth words without knowledge.