The Church Fathers on this verse

Ecclesiastes 11:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The light is sweet, and it is delightful for the eyes to see the sun.

Douay-Rheims

וּמָת֖וֹק הָא֑וֹר וְט֥וֹב לַֽעֵינַ֖יִם לִרְא֥וֹת אֶת־הַשָּֽׁמֶשׁ׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

2 Church Fathers comment on this verse

Gregory the Wonderworker

3rd centuryChurch Father

One who perceives the sun as lovely, finds joy in this life, and values longevity, perpetual happiness, views death as a dreadful fate, eternally malevolent, leading to emptiness, believes they ought to savor every moment and indulge in what is deemed delightful.

Ireneus (Orda)

19th centuryCommentator

One should always strive to do good, even in the absence of anticipated rewards; often, after considerable time has passed, good actions are recognized (11:1). We ought to extend kindness to as many individuals as we can, as in times of unexpected adversity, at least one of those we have helped may assist us (2). To experience a joyful outcome ('reap'), one requires both favorable conditions provided by God and human effort (sow); there are situations where the cause and effects are evident (for instance, when clouds are full, they pour rain upon the earth, or if a tree falls, it remains in that position) (3).

Read more (175 words)

Yet, there are circumstances in which humanity remains oblivious (considering, for example, the paths of the wind or the development of a tree) (3), including how the wind moves or how life is formed within a mother's womb (5). Therefore, a person should not squander time attempting to discern and rationalize such conditions (4), but should instead consistently and patiently engage in their endeavors, for what may have been thwarted by unfavorable circumstances could yet flourish at another time (6). Moreover, irrespective of any outcomes, life itself holds joys (7), and if one were to refrain from overly pursuing success, they could find happiness in the present, amid any situation, especially when we remember the length of the weary days, or the time after death, when one can find joy. Particularly when considering how extensive the shadowy days are, referring to the period after death when one will no longer bask in the light (7); thus, it is crucial to seize the present moment, as all that lies ahead is uncertain and ultimately empty (8).

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.