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2ECCfrontintrod82s0# Introduction to Ecclesiastes<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of Ecclesiastes<br><br>1. The author questions the nature of life and the limits of human wisdom (1:16:12)<br>1. The author teaches about making wise choices in how one lives (7:112:7)<br>1. The conclusion and ending (12:814)<br><br>### What is the Book of Ecclesiastes about?<br><br>Ecclesiastes is a group of short teachings that try to answer questions such as “What do people gain from all their labor?” Ecclesiastes is a series of thoughts about a variety of subjects, all of them about the purpose and worth of various actions and events. The author concludes that all the work we perform and all the knowledge and skill we gain is like a vapor that disappears, and that we must fear Yahweh and keep his commandments.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>The traditional title for this book is “Ecclesiastes.” Its meaning is similar to “religious assembly.” Translators might decide on a title that better describes the content of the book, such as “Words of a Teacher” or “Teachings of a Wise Man.”<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of Ecclesiastes?<br><br>The author appears to be Solomon, “the Teacher, the descendant of David and king in Jerusalem.” This is consistent with what Solomon was known for:<br>* his wisdom ([Ecclesiastes 1:16](../../ecc/01/16.md) and twenty-six other references to wisdom);<br>* his vast wealth ([Ecclesiastes 2:8](../../ecc/02/08.md)), and the pain that comes from wealth ([Ecclesiastes 5:13-14](../05/13.md); [Ecclesiastes 4:8](../../ecc/04/08.md); and [Ecclesiastes 9:11](../../ecc/09/11.md));<br>* his large number of servants ([Ecclesiastes 2:7](../../ecc/02/07.md) and [Ecclesiastes 10:7](../../ecc/10/07.md));<br>* his limitless opportunities for worldly pleasures ([Ecclesiastes 2:1-2](../02/01.md), [Ecclesiastes 10](../02/09.md); [Ecclesiastes 3:13](../../ecc/03/13.md); [Ecclesiastes 4:8](../../ecc/04/08.md); [Ecclesiastes 5:4](../../ecc/05/04.md); and [Ecclesiastes 12:1](../../ecc/12/01.md)); and<br>* the wide range of his many building projects ([Ecclesiastes 2:4-6](../02/04.md)).<br><br>Solomon appears to have written the Book of Ecclesiastes near the end of his life, as he reflected on what he gained from all that he did.<br><br>### Why are there so many apparent contradictions in the Book of Ecclesiastes?<br><br>Some scholars think the author was a faithful man. Other scholars think that the author made bad decisions and was sorrowful when he wrote this book. Apparent contradictions in the book may indicate that Solomons faith was sometimes weak. Or, it is also possible that the teachings in the book differ from each other in order to relate to different things happening in the lives of readers.<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What does this book teach about how God repays people?<br><br>In the ancient Near East, people were concerned with why they were being punished or blessed. They often connected these things to their gods. The writer of Ecclesiastes explains that Yahweh will bless and reward people for the right things they do and punish people for the evil things they do. But this might not happen in this life. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/bless]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]])<br><br>### What value did the Israelites place on the Book of Ecclesiastes?<br><br>The Israelites have often questioned the value of this book. This is due in large part to its unusual wording and teachings. At times, it appears to disagree with the rest of Scripture. While many have questioned its authority, it has been affirmed to be Scripture. It gives valuable lessons concerning the uselessness of pursuing any goal other than to give Yahweh glory.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What is the meaning of “under the sun?”<br><br>“Under the sun” here is another way of saying “on the earth.” When the author says that there is “nothing new under the sun,” this means that every kind of thing has already happened before on the earth. While a particular event may not have specifically occurred before, something similar has already occurred.<br><br>### How do I translate harsh or shocking passages?<br><br>Parts of the Book of Ecclesiastes can be shocking or surprising to read in Scripture. For example, “If a man fathers a hundred children and lives many years, so that the days of his years are many, but if his heart is not satisfied with good and he is not buried with honor, then I say that a baby that is born dead is better off than he is” (6:3). The translator should allow these difficulties to remain and not try to make them less surprising.<br><br>### How is life described in the Book of Ecclesiastes?<br><br>The author of Ecclesiastes concludes that everything in this life quickly passes away, like a vapor that disappears. A persons circumstances or character and even all of the things of this world have little or no significance apart from God. That is because God gives meaning to everything.<br><br>At the end of their life, people often say that the years of their life seemed short. The author of Ecclesiastes used the metaphor of vapor or breath to describe how life ends while it seems to be just beginning.<br>
3ECC1introg7jr0# Ecclesiastes 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 1:2-11 and 15.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Tone<br>The tone of this chapter is sad, or depressing. The author believes that everything in life is pointless. The metaphors in this chapter all describe the idea that nothing ever changes. This is also known as “fatalism.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
4ECC12x2dtfigs-simile0Like a vapor of mist, like a breeze in the wind, everything vanishesThis speaks of how everything in life vanishes and has no lasting value as if everything were like a disappearing vapor or breeze. Alternate translation: “Like a vapor of mist vanishes and like a breeze in the wind disappears, everything vanishes and has no lasting value” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
5ECC13bsv3figs-rquestion0What profit does mankind gain…under the sun?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that mans work is pointless and has no lasting benefit. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Mankind gains no profit…under the sun.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
6ECC13r9j3figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
7ECC14fj3a0General Information:The writer is presenting the natural order of life as he understands it.
8ECC15n9iafigs-personification0hurries back to the placeThis speaks of how the sun sets at the end of the day and is soon ready to rise again, as if it were a person that quickly ran from the place where it sets to the place from which it rises. Alternate translation: “quickly returns to the place” or “quickly goes to the place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
9ECC17ri2j0General Information:The writer continues with observations about the natural order.
10ECC18ax860Everything becomes wearisome“Everything becomes tiring.” Since man is unable to explain these things, it becomes useless to try.
11ECC18y4vefigs-synecdoche0The eye is not satisfied by what it seesHere the “eye” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “A person is not satisfied by what his eyes see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
12ECC18n7hmfigs-synecdoche0nor is the ear fulfilled by what it hearsHere the “ear” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “nor is a person content by what his ears hear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
13ECC19h89i0General Information:There is nothing new regarding man and his activities.
14ECC19i85dfigs-activepassive0whatever has been done is what will be doneThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whatever has happened before is what will happen again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
15ECC19sv37figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
16ECC110kws8figs-rquestion0Is there anything about which it may be said, Look, this is new?This rhetorical question is asked to emphasize that man cannot say there is anything new. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is nothing about which it may be said, Look, this is new.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
17ECC110pdf8figs-activepassive0about which it may be saidThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “about which someone may say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
18ECC111h282figs-ellipsis0that will happen in the futureThe understood subject may be supplied. Alternate translation: “the things that will happen in the future” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
19ECC111si4sfigs-activepassive0will not likely be remembered eitherThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will not likely remember them either” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
20ECC113mk1hfigs-synecdoche0I applied my mindHere the author refers to himself by his “mind” to emphasize his thoughts. Alternate translation: “I determined” or “I applied myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
21ECC113at9zfigs-doublet0to study and to search outThese two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize how diligently he studied. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
22ECC113l4hffigs-explicit0under heavenThis refers to things that are done on earth. Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
23ECC113a36k0children of mankind“human beings”
24ECC114d4rwfigs-activepassive0all the deeds that are doneThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “everything that people do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
25ECC114h2f6figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
26ECC114fw3mfigs-idiom0lookThe author uses this word to draw attention to what he says next. Alternate translation: “indeed” or “really” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
27ECC114xq7tfigs-parallelism0amount to vapor…chasing the windThese two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
28ECC114jpp7figs-metaphor0amount to vapor“are only mist.” The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were “vapor.” Just as vapor disappears and does not last, things have no lasting value. Alternate translation: “are as useless as vapor” or “are meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
29ECC114i9d5figs-metaphor0chasing the windThe author says that everything that people do is as useless as if they were trying to control the wind. Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
30ECC115s638figs-activepassive0The twisted cannot be straightened! The missing cannot be countedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People cannot straighten things that are twisted! They cannot count what is not there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
31ECC116ql67figs-synecdoche0I have spoken to my heartHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I have spoken to myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
32ECC116mnf40My mind has seenHere the author refers to himself by his “mind” to emphasize what he has learned. Alternate translation: “I have gained” or “I have learned”
33ECC117ewq3figs-synecdoche0I applied my heartHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I determined” or “I applied myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
34ECC117bp2yfigs-doublet0madness and follyThe words “madness” and “folly” share similar meanings and refer to foolish thinking and behavior, respectively. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
35ECC117msw2figs-metaphor0an attempt to shepherd the windThe author says learning wisdom and madness and folly is as useless as trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
36ECC2introcab90# Ecclesiastes 02 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 2:10-16.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Pleasures<br>When the author thought about the pointlessness of life, he decided to fill it with pointless pleasures. He believed that this type of living would have no effect on the world. Therefore, he indulged in every type of pleasure.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Assumed knowledge<br>It is assumed that the author is going to reject the way of living in this chapter. He is certainly not encouraging this way of living even though he does not say this explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
37ECC21dd5vfigs-synecdoche0I said in my heartHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
38ECC21shl4figs-abstractnouns0I will test you with happinessHere the word “you” refers to himself. The word “happiness” can be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “I will test myself with things that make me happy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
39ECC21c2cnfigs-abstractnouns0So enjoy pleasureThe word “pleasure” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “So I will enjoy things that please me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
40ECC21af7ffigs-metaphor0this also was just a temporary breezeThis speaks of how happiness only lasts for a short time as if it were a temporary breeze. Alternate translation: “this also only lasted for a short time, like a temporary breeze” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
41ECC22v8jjfigs-quotations0I said about laughter, “It is crazy,”The direct quotation can be translated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “I said that it is crazy to laugh at things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
42ECC22s5xcfigs-rquestion0What use is it?The author uses a rhetorical question to emphasize that pleasure is useless. Alternate translation: “It is useless.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
43ECC23pim6figs-metaphor0I explored in my heartThis speaks of thinking hard for a long time as if it were exploring. Also, the author speaks of his feelings and his thoughts as if they were his “heart.” Alternate translation: “I thought hard about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
44ECC23qyb2figs-abstractnouns0to gratify my desires with wineThe word “desires” may be expressed as a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “to use wine to make myself happy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
45ECC23ce8xfigs-personification0I let my mind guide me with wisdomHere the author speaks of using the wisdom that he had been taught to guide himself as if this wisdom were a person who guided him. Alternate translation: “I thought about the things that wise people had taught me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
46ECC23t4xmfigs-explicit0under heavenThis refers to things that are done on earth. Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
47ECC23dp1p0during the days of their lives“during the time that they are alive”
48ECC24l8k8figs-metonymy0I built houses for myself and planted vineyardsThe writer probably told people to do the work. Alternate translation: “I had people build houses and plant vineyards for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
49ECC25b7j9figs-metonymy0I built for myself gardens and parks; I plantedThe writer probably told people to do the work. Alternate translation: “I had people build for me gardens and parks; I had them plant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
50ECC25ju37figs-doublet0gardens and parksThese two words share similar meanings and refer to beautiful orchards of fruit trees. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
51ECC26s54kfigs-metonymy0I createdThe writer probably told people to do the work. Alternate translation: “I had them create” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
52ECC26f5w70to water a forest“to provide water for a forest”
53ECC26yp4pfigs-activepassive0forest where trees were grownThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “forest where trees grew” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
54ECC27apg70I had slaves born in my palace“I had slaves that were born in my palace” or “My slaves bore children and they also were my slaves”
55ECC27ux74figs-ellipsis0much more than any kingThe understood verb may be supplied. Alternate translation: “much more than any other king had” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
56ECC28n6xafigs-explicit0the treasures of kings and provincesThis refers to the gold and other wealth that neighboring countries were forced to pay to the king of Israel. Alternate translation: “that I acquired from the treasures of kings and the rulers of provinces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
57ECC28z349figs-metonymy0provincesHere “provinces” represents the rulers of the provinces. Alternate translation: “the rulers of provinces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
58ECC28sng5figs-explicit0the delights of the children of humanity—and many concubinesThis means that he had many concubines that he enjoyed sleeping with, as any man enjoys sleeping with women. Alternate translation: “I greatly enjoyed many concubines, as would delight any man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
59ECC29v6kufigs-explicit0than all who were before me in JerusalemThis refers to all the previous rulers of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “than all the kings who had ruled before me in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
60ECC29hz3nfigs-idiom0my wisdom remained with meThis is an idiom. “I continued to act wisely” or “I continued to be wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
61ECC210ner1figs-synecdoche0Whatever my eyes desired…from themHere the author refers to himself by his “eyes” to emphasize what he sees. Alternate translation: “Whatever I saw and desired…from myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
62ECC210v74v0I did not withhold from themThis can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “I got for them”
63ECC210vdf1figs-synecdoche0I did not withhold my heart from any pleasureHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his desires. This can be stated positively and the word “pleasure” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “I did not keep myself from any pleasure” or “I allowed myself to enjoy everything that made me happy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
64ECC210bsh6figs-synecdoche0my heart rejoicedHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his desires. Alternate translation: “I rejoiced” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
65ECC211p9rsfigs-synecdoche0all the deeds that my hands had accomplishedHere the author refers to himself by his “hands.” Alternate translation: “all that I had accomplished” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
66ECC211s4rmfigs-parallelism0vapor…an attempt to shepherd the windThese two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
67ECC211bmh2figs-metaphor0vapor“mist.” The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were “vapor.” See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
68ECC211g17wfigs-metaphor0an attempt to shepherd the windThe author says that everything that people do is as useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
69ECC211ce6q0There was no profit under the sun in it“But it had no profit under the sun”
70ECC211wz2ffigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
71ECC212l7xpfigs-doublet0madness and follyThe words “madness” and “folly” have similar meanings and refer to foolish thinking and behavior, respectively. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:17](../01/17.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
72ECC212u6brfigs-rquestion0For what can the next king do who comes after the king, which has not already been done?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize his point that the next king will not be able to do anything more valuable that what he had already done. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “For the next king who comes after the king can do nothing that a king before him has not already done.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
73ECC212f76d0the next king…who comes after the king“the king…who succeeds the current king” or “the next king…who comes after me”
74ECC213p1yifigs-simile0wisdom has advantages over folly, just as light is better than darknessThis speaks of how wisdom is better than folly by comparing it to how light is better than darkness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
75ECC214ml2ffigs-metaphor0The wise man uses his eyes in his head to see where he is goingThis speaks of a wise man making wise decisions as walking and paying attention to where he is going. Alternate translation: “The wise man is like a person who uses his eyes to see where he is going” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
76ECC214dub9figs-idiom0uses his eyes in his head to seeThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “pays attention and looks to see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
77ECC214j96ufigs-metaphor0the fool walks in darknessThis compares a fool making bad decisions to someone walking in darkness. Alternate translation: “the fool is like a person who walks in the dark” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
78ECC214r1qq0the same eventdeath
79ECC215fe31figs-synecdoche0I said in my heartHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
80ECC215ugh6figs-rquestion0So what difference does it make if I am very wise?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no benefit to being wise. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “So it makes no difference if I am very wise.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
81ECC215l9ywfigs-synecdoche0I concluded in my heartHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I concluded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
82ECC215b6qtfigs-metaphor0is only vapor“is only mist.” The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were “vapor.” See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “is as useless as vapor” or “is meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
83ECC216ybg8figs-activepassive0For the wise man, like the fool, is not remembered for very longThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People do not remember the wise man for very long, just as they do not remember the fool for very long” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
84ECC216h7gzfigs-activepassive0everything will have been long forgottenThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will have long forgotten everything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
85ECC217few8figs-activepassive0all the work doneThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “all the work that people do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
86ECC217sek40was evil to me“troubled me”
87ECC217l4jffigs-parallelism0vapor…an attempt to shepherd the windThese two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
88ECC217a874figs-metaphor0vapor“mist.” The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were “vapor.” See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
89ECC217i7pafigs-metaphor0an attempt to shepherd the windThe author says everything that people do is as useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
90ECC217y4bhfigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
91ECC218cl3k0to the man who comes after me“to the man who inherits it after me”
92ECC219gjx9figs-rquestion0For who knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one knows the character the man who will inherit his wealth. Alternate translation: “For no one knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
93ECC219je2l0he will beThe word “he” refers to the authors heir.
94ECC219eb64figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
95ECC219w9z7figs-metonymy0that my work and wisdom have builtHere the authors “work” and “wisdom” represent himself and the things he did in his wisdom. He probably had help with the literal buildings. Alternate translation: “that I worked very hard and wisely to build” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
96ECC219ud4afigs-metaphor0vaporThe author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were mist. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
97ECC220gs18figs-synecdoche0my heart began to despairHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I began to despair” or “I began to lose all hope” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
98ECC221j6ge0who works with wisdom, with knowledge, and skill“who works wisely and skillfully, using the things that he has learned”
99ECC221y72q0who has not made any of it“who has not worked for any of it”
100ECC221klw5figs-metaphor0vaporThe author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were mist. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
101ECC221j6ur0a great tragedy“a great disaster”
102ECC222k62mfigs-rquestion0For what profit does the person gain who works so hard and tries in his heart to complete his labors under the sun?The author uses a rhetorical question to emphasize that the man who works hard gains nothing. Translate “what profit does…gain” as you did in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “For the person who works so hard and tries in his heart to complete his labors under the sun gains nothing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
103ECC222g69dfigs-parallelism0works so hard and tries in his heartThese two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize how strenuously the person works. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
104ECC222t8lpfigs-idiom0tries in his heartThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “tries anxiously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
105ECC222v87nfigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
106ECC223b5zvfigs-doublet0painful and stressfulThese two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize how difficult the persons work is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
107ECC223f3zgfigs-idiom0his soul does not find restHere mans mind is referred to as his “soul” to emphasize his deep thoughts. Alternate translation: “his mind does not rest” or “he continues to worry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
108ECC224xa3qfigs-metonymy0Gods handHere God is represented by his “hand” to emphasize how he provides for people. Alternate translation: “from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
109ECC225x4m8figs-rquestion0For who can eat or who can have any kind of pleasure apart from God?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no pleasure can be had without Gods provision. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “For no one can eat or have any kind of pleasure apart from God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
110ECC226s16q0so that he may give it away to someone who pleases GodPossible meanings for the word “he” are 1) God or 2) the sinner. This also can be translated without making it clear who it is that gives the things that the sinner stored. Alternate translation: “so that the one who pleases God may have it”
111ECC226fs9nfigs-parallelism0vapor…an attempt to shepherd the windThese two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
112ECC226v8znfigs-metaphor0vapor“mist.” The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were “vapor.” See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
113ECC226e7hmfigs-metaphor0an attempt to shepherd the windThe author speaks of everything that people do as being useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
114ECC3introa9c10# Ecclesiastes 03 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 3:1-8 and 3:15.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Parallelism<br>The chapter uses parallelism with the phrase, “a time to.” This gives the quotation a poetic style. Their overall purpose is to show that Yahweh directs the events of the world and therefore, they have purpose.<br>
115ECC31q8gzfigs-merism0General Information:The writer uses merisms to describe various aspects of life from one extreme to the other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
116ECC31hn82figs-parallelism0For everything there is an appointed time, and a season for every purposeThese two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
117ECC31s8amfigs-idiom0under heavenThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
118ECC32ga5b0a time to pull up plantsPossible meanings are 1) “a time to harvest” or 2) “a time to uproot.”
119ECC34a5emfigs-merism0General Information:The writer continues with merisms to describe various aspects of life from one extreme to the other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
120ECC35yg8l0embraceto hold someone in your arms to show love or friendship
121ECC36az59figs-merism0General Information:The writer continues with merisms to describe various aspects of life from one extreme to the other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
122ECC38f1fufigs-merism0General Information:The writer concludes using merisms to describe various aspects of life from one extreme to the other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
123ECC39q3gkfigs-rquestion0What profit does the worker gain in his labor?This is a thought provoking question to focus the reader on the next discussion topic. Translate “what profit does…gain” as you did in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “The worker gains no profit for his labor.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
124ECC311z9kk0God has made everything suitable for its own time“God has fixed a time that is right for everything to happen” or “God has set a time that is right for each thing to happen:
125ECC311k5defigs-metonymy0placed eternity in their heartsHere the word “their” refers to human beings. Here the “hearts” of the people represent their thoughts and desires. Alternate translation: “placed eternity in the hearts of human beings” or “caused people to think about eternal things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
126ECC311jac1figs-merism0from their beginning all the way to their endThis refers to the beginning and the end and all that is in between. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
127ECC313cyl80should understand how to enjoy“should learn how to enjoy” or “should enjoy”
128ECC314w9c2figs-activepassive0Nothing can be added to it or taken awayThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “No one can add anything to or take anything away from it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
129ECC316iyt8figs-parallelism0I have seen the wickedness…wickedness was thereThese two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize how common wicked behavior is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
130ECC316i9320in place of righteousness“where there should be righteousness”
131ECC316ib3mfigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
132ECC317h7j6figs-synecdoche0I said in my heartHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
133ECC317ar25figs-nominaladj0the righteous and the wickedThis refers to righteous and wicked people. Alternate translation: “those who are righteous and those who are wicked” or “the righteous people and the wicked people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
134ECC317s71gfigs-doublet0every matter and every deedThese two phrases mean basically the same thing and refer to every action that people do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
135ECC318tst7figs-synecdoche0I said in my heartHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
136ECC318uam6figs-simile0they are like animalsHere the author says that human beings are like animals. In the next verse the author explains clearly how humans are like animals. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
137ECC319az6d0is the same fate for them“is the same for both of them” or “is the same”
138ECC319i4mv0The breath is the same for all of them“All of them breathe same”
139ECC319y2nd0There is no advantage for mankind over the animals“Mankind is no better off than the animals”
140ECC319q66pfigs-metaphor0is not everything just a breath?Here the author speaks of everything being as temporary as if it were a breath of air. The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that everything is temporary. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Everything is just a breath.” or “Everything is as temporary as a breath.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
141ECC320gi8hfigs-explicit0Everything is going to the same placeThis means that all people and all animals die and decay and become part of the soil. Alternate translation: “Everything dies and goes to the same place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
142ECC320d4km0dustsoil
143ECC321h8x9figs-rquestion0Who knows whether the spirit…into the earth?The author asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one truly knows what happens after people and animals die. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one knows whether the spirit…into the earth.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
144ECC322h5jm0there is nothing better for anyone than toSee how you translated this phrase in [Ecclesiastes 3:12](../03/12.md).
145ECC322lqg2figs-rquestion0Who can bring him back to see what happens after him?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one will see what happens after he dies. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one of us knows what happens to us after we die.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
146ECC4introev1x0# Ecclesiastes 04 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 4:1-3, 4:5-6, and 4:8-12.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Irony<br>The teacher looks at the oppression in the world and is saddened by it, but he is the king and has the power to change things. He also laments being alone even though he has many wives, children, and concubines. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/oppress]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lament]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])<br>
147ECC41cuy2figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
148ECC41ys320behold, the tears“I looked and I saw”
149ECC41zp3ifigs-metonymy0the tears of oppressed peopleHere “tears” represent weeping. Alternate translation: “the oppressed people were weeping” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
150ECC41c1svfigs-metonymy0Power was in the hand of their oppressorsThis means that their oppressors were powerful. Here their “hand” represents what thet possess. Alternate translation: “Their oppressors were powerful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
151ECC42g9ptfigs-parallelism0the living, who are still aliveThe word “living” is a nominal adjective that refers to people who are living. The phrase “those who are still alive” means the same thing as “the living.” Alternate translation: “the people who are still alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
152ECC43ekt20more fortunate than both of them is the one who has not yet lived“the one who has not yet been born is better off than both of them”
153ECC43q72xfigs-explicit0both of themThis refers to those who are dead and to those who are alive. Alternate translation: “both those who are dead and those who are living” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
154ECC43hua5figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
155ECC44y7i7figs-abstractnouns0became the envy of ones neighborThe word “envy” may be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “made ones neighbor envious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
156ECC44u7wt0the envy of ones neighborpossible meanings are 1) The neighbor envies the object his neighbor made, or 2) the neighbor envies the skills his neighbor has.
157ECC44e19xfigs-parallelism0vapor…an attempt to shepherd the windThese two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
158ECC44u3t7figs-metaphor0vapor“mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
159ECC44m36wfigs-metaphor0an attempt to shepherd the windThe author speaks of everything that people do as being useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
160ECC45vfv8translate-symaction0The fool folds his hands and does not workTo fold the hands is a gesture of laziness and is another way of saying that the person refuses to work. Alternate translation: “The fool refuses to work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
161ECC45b92hfigs-metaphor0so his food is his own fleshThis speaks of a person destroying himself as if he were eating his own body. Alternate translation: “as a result, he causes his own ruin” or “and as a result, he destroys himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
162ECC46n1d90a handful“a small amount”
163ECC46mw6lfigs-ellipsis0two handfuls“a large amount.” It is understood that this refer to profit gained. Alternate translation: “two handfuls of profit” or “a large amount of profit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
164ECC46se1lfigs-metaphor0that tries to shepherd the windThe author speaks of everything that people do as being useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “that is as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
165ECC47civ10futilitybeing useless, without profit
166ECC47w5f8figs-metaphor0more vanishing vapor“more vanishing mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated “vapor” in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “more things that are as useless as vapor” or “more meaningless things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
167ECC47w5stfigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
168ECC47x1r1figs-metaphor0vapor“mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
169ECC48a3v5figs-explicit0no son or brotherThis person has no family. Alternate translation: “he has no family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
170ECC48np2nfigs-synecdoche0his eyes are not satisfiedHere the whole person is represented by his “eyes” to emphasize his desires. Alternate translation: “he is not satisfied” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
171ECC48cx1e0For whom am I toiling and depriving myself of pleasure“Will anyone benefit from me working hard and not enjoying myself”
172ECC410r5m2figs-personification0sorrow follows the one who is alone when he fallsHere sorrow is spoken of as if it were a person that could follow someone else. Alternate translation: “the one who is alone when he falls is sorrowful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
173ECC411b486figs-explicit0If two lie down together, they can be warmThe writer speaks of two people keeping each other warm on a cold night. Alternate translation: “If two people lie down together at night, they can be warm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
174ECC411b6ywfigs-rquestion0how can one be warm alone?This refers to a person lying down. The author use this rhetorical question to emphasize that two people can keep each other warm but one person cannot. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “a person cannot be warm when he is alone.” or “a person who lies down alone cannot be warm.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
175ECC412cj73figs-activepassive0One man alone can be overpoweredThis can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone can overpower a person who is alone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
176ECC412aq3c0but two“but two people”
177ECC412r98s0withstand an attack“defend themselves against an attack”
178ECC412mg67figs-metaphor0a three-strand ropeThis speaks of three people together being stronger as if they were a three-strand rope. Alternate translation: “three people are even stronger, like a three-strand rope that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
179ECC412iur4figs-activepassive0a three-strand rope is not quickly brokenThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people cannot easily break a rope made with three strands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
180ECC413uhs10wise youth“wise young man”
181ECC413uye4figs-metonymy0who no longer knows howHere knowing represents willingness. Alternate translation: “who is no longer willing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
182ECC414k5lm0from prison“after being in prison”
183ECC414xu6rfigs-explicit0he was born poor in his kingdomThis means that he had poor parents. Alternate translation: “he was born to poor parents who lived in the land that he will someday rule” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
184ECC415l8cp0General Information:Instead of choosing the wise youth, the people choose the kings son, who may not be any wiser.
185ECC415pj25figs-parallelism0alive…walking aroundThe words “alive” and “walking around” mean basically the same thing and are combined to emphasize living people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
186ECC415s7r7figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
187ECC416rru3figs-hyperbole0There is no end to all the peopleThis is an exaggeration used to emphasize a large number of people. Alternate translation: “There are very many people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
188ECC416xk33figs-parallelism0vapor…an attempt to shepherd the windThese two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
189ECC416xp58figs-metaphor0vapor“mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
190ECC416l1y1figs-metaphor0an attempt to shepherd the windThe author speaks of everything that people do as being useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
191ECC5introp4zf0# Ecclesiastes 05 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 5:2-3, and 5:10-17.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Materialism<br>The author describes the pointlessness of pursuing material things. This is known as “materialism.” Those who pursue after things will always want more. At the end of their life, they will not be able to use these things.<br>
192ECC51h4uffigs-metonymy0Guard your stepsHere “steps” are a metonym for a persons conduct. Alternate translation: “Be careful how you conduct yourself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
193ECC52k5isfigs-parallelism0Do not be too quick…do not let your heart be too quickThese two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that you should think first before you speak to God about a matter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
194ECC52s9ue0to speak with your mouthHere the phrase “with your mouth” emphasizes and describes a person speaking. Alternate translation: “to speak”
195ECC52ucz2figs-synecdoche0do not let your heartHere a person is represented by his “heart” to emphasize his emotions and desires. Alternate translation: “do not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
196ECC52g7vv0let your words be few“do not say too much”
197ECC54isy3figs-explicit0do not delay to do it, for God has no pleasure in foolsIt is implied that it is foolish to delay in fulfilling a vow that you have made to God. Alternate translation: “do not foolishly delay in doing it, because God is not pleased with foolish people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
198ECC56l6vbfigs-metonymy0Do not allow your mouth to cause your flesh to sinHere a persons “mouth” represents a persons speech, and the person himself is represented by his “flesh.” Alternate translation: “Do not let what you say cause you to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
199ECC56l7ndfigs-rquestion0Why make God angry by vowing falsely, provoking God to destroy the work of your hands?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that it is foolish to make a vow that you will not keep. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “It would be foolish to make God angry by vowing falsely, provoking God to destroy the work of your hands.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
200ECC56mi3zfigs-synecdoche0destroy the work of your handsHere a person is represented by his “hands.” Alternate translation: “destroy everything you do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
201ECC57r95zfigs-metaphor0For in many dreams, as in many words, there is meaningless vaporThe author speaks of things as being useless and futile as if they were vapor. See how you translated “vapor” in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “For many dreams and many words are as useless as vapor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
202ECC58jdl4figs-activepassive0the poor being oppressed and robbedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people oppressing the poor and robbing them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
203ECC58x1rpfigs-nominaladj0the poorThis refers to poor people. Alternate translation: “those who are poor” or “poor people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
204ECC58h98mfigs-doublet0just and right treatmentThe words “just” and “right” mean basically the same thing and refer to the kind of treatment that people deserve. Alternate translation: “fair treatment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
205ECC58d57b0do not be astonished as if no one knows, because there are people“do not be surprised, for there are people
206ECC58kr4z0there are people in power“there are people with authority”
207ECC58v44rfigs-idiom0even higher ones over themThere are other men who rule over the men in authority. Alternate translation: “men who have even more authority than they do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
208ECC59uc5efigs-abstractnouns0the produce of the land…produce from the fieldsThe word “produce” may be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “the food that the land produces…crops from the fields” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
209ECC510kh3lfigs-metaphor0vaporThe author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were mist. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
210ECC511md9bfigs-abstractnouns0As prosperity increasesThe word “prosperity” may be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “As a person becomes more prosperous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
211ECC511xh2w0so also do the people who consume itPossible meanings are 1) “so also the person spends more money” or 2) “so also there will be more people who use his wealth.”
212ECC511ncz7figs-metaphor0who consume itThis speaks of people spending wealth as if they were “eating” it. Alternate translation: “who use it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
213ECC511c2dcfigs-rquestion0What advantage in wealth is there to the owner except to watch it with his eyes?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that the wealthy do not benefit from their wealth. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “The only benefit that the owner has from wealth is that he can look at it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
214ECC512d52vfigs-metaphor0The sleep of a working man is sweetThis speaks of a persons sleep being fulfilling and peaceful as if it were sweet like something he eats. Alternate translation: “The sleep of a working man is peaceful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
215ECC512dr7p0whether he eats little or a lot“whether he eats a little bit of food or a lot of food”
216ECC512u4e4figs-personification0but the wealth of a rich person does not allow him to sleep well“but the wealth of a rich person keeps him awake at night.” This speaks of a rich person not being able to sleep because he is worried about his money as if his money were a person that would not allow him to sleep. Alternate translation: “but rich people do not sleep well because they worry about their money” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
217ECC513m4vdfigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
218ECC513j6b2figs-activepassive0riches hoarded by the ownerThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “an owner hoards riches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
219ECC514d5n40through bad luckPossible meanings are 1) “through misfortune” or 2) “through a bad business deal.”
220ECC514zb1ufigs-metonymy0his own son, one whom he has fathered, is left with nothing in his handsHere the phrase “in his hands” represents ownership. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he leaves no possession for his own son” (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
221ECC515it6kfigs-metaphor0As a man comes from his mothers womb…he will leave nakedIt is implied that a man is naked when he is born. In addition to being without clothing, here the word “naked” emphasizes that people are born without any possessions. Alternate translation: “As a man is naked and owns nothing when he is born…he will leave this life the same way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
222ECC515wl6z0comes from his mothers womb“is born”
223ECC515zl7hfigs-euphemism0he will leaveThis refers to dying. Alternate translation: “he will die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
224ECC515fe51figs-metonymy0He can take none of the fruits of his labor in his handHere a mans possessions are spoken of as if they are fruit that he grew with his labor. Alternate translation: “He can not take any of his possessions with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
225ECC516qd7ufigs-explicit0as a person comes, so he goes awayThis refers to the birth and death of a person and expresses the same idea as the previous verse. This refers to women as well as men. Alternate translation: “as people bring nothing into the world when they are born, so they take nothing with them when they die and leave this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
226ECC516h3bbfigs-rquestion0So what profit is there for him who works for the wind?The writer uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no benefit in working for the wind. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one gets any profit in working for the wind.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
227ECC516dl4pfigs-metaphor0works for the windPossible meanings are 1) This speaks of the person receiving no lasting profit as if he were trying to control the wind. Alternate translation: “tries to shepherd the wind” or “work that is as useless as trying to shepherd the wind” or 2) This implies that the person only receives the air that he breaths as his profit. Alternate translation: “works to receive the air he breathes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
228ECC517x449figs-metaphor0During his days he eats with darknessThis speaks of a person mourning throughout his life as if he always ate in darkness. Here “darkness” represents sadness and mourning. Alternate translation: “He spends his life in mourning and sadness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
229ECC517rys5figs-metonymy0his daysHere a persons “days” represent his life. Alternate translation: “his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
230ECC517zw6wfigs-abstractnouns0is greatly distressed with sickness and angerThe words “sickness” and “anger” can be expressed as adjectives. Alternate translation: “suffers greatly, being sick and angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
231ECC518k7uqfigs-idiom0LookThe author uses this word here to draw his readers attention to what he says next. Alternate translation: “Pay attention” or “Listen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
232ECC518qp65figs-doublet0what I have seen to be good and suitableHere the words “good” and “suitable” mean basically the same thing. The second intensifies the meaning of the first. Alternate translation: “what I have seen to be the best thing to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
233ECC518ue88figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
234ECC518m281figs-idiom0during the days of this life that God has given usThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “as long as God allows us to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
235ECC518ued70For this is mans assignmentPossible meanings are 1) “For this is mans reward” or 2) “For these are the things that he allows man to do”
236ECC519n4kafigs-doublet0riches and wealthThese two words mean basically the same thing. They refer to money and the things that a person can buy with money. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
237ECC519b3ld0to receive his share“to accept what he is given”
238ECC520iz9mfigs-idiom0he does not call to mindHere the word “he” refers to the person to whom God has given a gift. The phrase “call to mind” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “he does not remember” or “he does not think about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
239ECC520qr1sfigs-idiom0the days of his lifeThis refers to the things that happened during his lifetime. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the things that have happened during his lifetime” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
240ECC520n32s0keep busy“stay busy”
241ECC6introar6e0# Ecclesiastes 06 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 6:7-11.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Satisfaction<br>While a person may be given a great many things, they are worthless and provide no sense of satisfaction or peace. It is assumed that only Yahweh can provide these things to man. Solomon is depressed that he had everything he could have ever wanted in life, but they were not enough to give him satisfaction or peace. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
242ECC61fyq4figs-metaphor0it weighs heavy on menHere evil is spoken of as something that is a heavy load to carry. Alternate translation: “it causes hardship for people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
243ECC62jzl7figs-doublet0riches, wealthThese two words mean basically the same thing. They refer to money and the things that a person can buy with money. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
244ECC62n75efigs-doublenegatives0he lacks nothingThis is a double negative. Alternate translation: “he has everything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
245ECC62rg6q0God gives him no ability“does not give him the ability”
246ECC62jr84figs-metaphor0vaporThe author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were mist. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
247ECC63qq8etranslate-numbers0fathers a hundred children“fathers 100 children.” This is a hypothetical situation. This is also an exaggeration and is applicable to people with fewer than 100 children. Alternate translation: “fathers many children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
248ECC63z9lsfigs-parallelism0lives many years, so that the days of his years are manyThese two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. Alternate translation: “lives many years” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
249ECC63fun6figs-synecdoche0his heart is not satisfied with goodThis refers to a man by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “he is not content with good things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
250ECC63qmh2figs-activepassive0he is not buriedThis can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) “no one buries him at all” or 2) he receives no honor, “no one buries him properly.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] or [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
251ECC64g8un0such a baby is born in futility“such a baby is born for nothing”
252ECC64tr53figs-idiom0passes away in darknessThis speaks of the death of the baby being as unexplainable as “darkness.” Alternate translation: “dies unexplainably” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
253ECC64xfu5figs-metaphor0its name remains hiddenThis speaks of no one knowing the babys name as if it were a hidden object. Alternate translation: “no one knows its name” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
254ECC66iz6ffigs-hypo0Even if a man should live for two thousand yearsThis is a hypothetical situation. This is also an exaggeration to show that it does not matter how long a person lives if he does not enjoy the good things in life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
255ECC66sa97translate-numbers0two thousand years“2,000 years” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
256ECC66g8tbfigs-explicit0he goes to the same place as everyone elseThis means that he dies like all other people. Alternate translation: “he dies and go to the same place as everyone else” or “he goes to the grave just like everyone else” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
257ECC67wf5ffigs-metonymy0is for his mouthHere putting food in a mans mouth represents feeding him. Alternate translation: “is to put food in his mouth” or “is to feed him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
258ECC67lc2ffigs-activepassive0his appetite is not satisfiedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he does not satisfy his appetite” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
259ECC68syz9figs-rquestion0what advantage has the wise person over the fool?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that a wise person does not have any more lasting benefits than a fool. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “it seems the wise person has no advantage over the fool.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
260ECC68gse4figs-rquestion0What advantage does the poor man have even if he knows how to act in front of other people?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that a poor man does not have any more lasting benefits than someone else. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “The poor man has no advantage even if he knows how to act in front of other people.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
261ECC68zy1l0how to act“how to conduct himself”
262ECC69ays9figs-metonymy0what the eyes seeA person can see these things because he already has them. Alternate translation: “what a person has” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
263ECC69xhe8figs-metonymy0to desire what a wandering appetite cravesThis refers to things that a person wants but does not have. Alternate translation: “to want what he does not have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
264ECC69n6mwfigs-parallelism0vapor…an attempt to shepherd the windThese two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
265ECC69f92yfigs-metaphor0vapor“mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
266ECC69qai8figs-metaphor0an attempt to shepherd the windThe author speaks of everything that people do as being useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
267ECC610vs8gfigs-activepassive0Whatever has existed has already been given its nameThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People have already named everything that exists” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
268ECC610f9hgfigs-activepassive0what mankind is like has already been knownThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people already know what mankind is like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
269ECC610uy4z0the one who is the mighty judge“God, who is the mighty judge”
270ECC611l9d5figs-activepassive0The more words that are spokenThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The more words that people speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
271ECC611pz7h0the more futility increasesThe more a person speaks, the more likely he will speak about meaningless things. Alternate translation: “the more meaningless those words are”
272ECC611s51v0futilitybeing useless, without profit
273ECC611pq2rfigs-rquestion0what advantage is that to a man?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no advantage for a man to talk a lot. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “that is no advantage to a man.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
274ECC612cb4rfigs-rquestion0For who knows what is good for man…he passes like a shadow?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no person truly knows what is good for man. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one knows what is good for man…he passes like a shadow.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
275ECC612jj23figs-simile0in his life during his futile, numbered days through which he passes like a shadowThis speaks of how life passes quickly by saying that it is like a shadow that quickly disappears. The phrase “numbered days” emphasizes that a persons life is short. Alternate translation: “during his futile, short life, which he passes through as quickly as a shadow passes by” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
276ECC612ka2lfigs-rquestion0Who can tell a man…after he passes?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one knows what will happen after a person dies. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can tell a man…after he passes.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
277ECC612pjl3figs-idiom0what will come under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated “under the sun” in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “what will happen on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
278ECC612k2abfigs-euphemism0after he passesThis is a polite expression for death. Alternate translation: “after he dies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
279ECC7introfp2g0# Ecclesiastes 07 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 7:1-26.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Advice<br>This chapter gives a series of disconnected pieces of advice. Translators should not try to smooth the transitions between these pieces of advice. The advice in these statements do not apply in every situation. Therefore, they should be seen as “good ideas.”<br>
280ECC71fq9efigs-metonymy0A good nameHere a persons “name” is used to represent their reputation. Alternate translation: “A good reputation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
281ECC72y1yxfigs-idiom0must take this to heartThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “must think seriously about this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
282ECC73g9c7figs-idiom0sadness of faceThis refers to being sad. Alternate translation: “an experience that makes a person sad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
283ECC73rsl9figs-metonymy0gladness of heartHere the word “heart” refers to a persons thoughts and emotions. “Gladness” describes either 1) the state of the emotions of being happy and peaceful or 2) the ability to understand the truth. Alternate translation: “right thinking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
284ECC74pli9figs-synecdoche0The heart of the wise is in the house of mourningHere wise people are referred to by their “hearts.” This speaks of the wise person mourning as being in a house of mourning. Alternate translation: “Wise people think deeply about death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
285ECC74lly7figs-synecdoche0but the heart of fools is in the house of feastingHere foolish people are referred to by their “hearts.” This speaks of foolish people thinking only about what makes them happy as being in a house of feasting. Alternate translation: “but foolish people think only about enjoying themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
286ECC74ux5g0the house of mourning…the house of feastingThese phrases refer to what happens in these places.
287ECC75wm3yfigs-abstractnouns0to the rebuke of the wiseThe word “rebuke” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “when wise people rebuke you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
288ECC75lal60to listen to the song of fools“to listen to fools sing”
289ECC76bh8qfigs-simile0For like the crackling of thorns burning under a pot, so also is the laughter of foolsThis speaks of how listening to fools talk and laugh will teach you nothing, as if their speech and laughter were the sound of burning thorns. Alternate translation: “For listening to the laughter of fools will not teach a man any more than if he were listening to the crackling of thorns burning under a pot” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
290ECC76im4xfigs-metaphor0vaporThe author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were mist. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
291ECC77be8y0ExtortionThis refers to forcing someone to give money or other valuable items to another so that the other person does not harm him. It is considered wrong.
292ECC77dt3e0makes a wise man foolishPossible meanings are 1) “turns the wise man into a foolish man” or 2) “makes the advice of the wise man appear to be foolish advice.”
293ECC77n3hsfigs-metonymy0corrupts the heartHere the word “heart” refers to the mind. Alternate translation: “ruins a persons ability to think and judge rightly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
294ECC78bw3cfigs-metonymy0the people patient in spirit are better than the proud in spiritHere the word “spirit” refers to a persons attitude. Alternate translation: “patient people are better than proud people” or “a patient attitude is better than a prideful attitude” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
295ECC79lb8vfigs-metonymy0Do not be quick to anger in your spiritHere the word “spirit” refers to a persons attitude. Alternate translation: “Do not become angry quickly” or “Do not have a bad temper” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
296ECC79fx66figs-metaphor0anger resides in the hearts of foolsThis speaks of a person being full of anger as if the anger lived inside him. This speaks of the anger being in the persons heart because the “heart” is thought to be the source of a persons emotions. Alternate translation: “foolish people are full of anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
297ECC710mu3yfigs-rquestion0Why were the days of old better than these?The person asks this rhetorical question in order to complain about the present time. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Things were better in the past than they are now.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
298ECC710r6blfigs-irony0it is not because of wisdom that you ask this questionHere the author uses irony to rebuke the persons question. Alternate translation: “if you were wise you would not ask this question” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
299ECC711w53hfigs-idiom0those who see the sunThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “those who are alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
300ECC712wt8d0the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom gives lifePossible meanings are 1) that the writer uses the words “knowledge” and “wisdom” to mean the same thing, or 2) “the advantage of knowing wisdom is that it gives life.”
301ECC712erb5figs-personification0gives life to whoever has itThis speaks of how wisdom helps to preserve a persons life as if it gave life to that person. When a person is wise he makes good decisions that help him to live a more prosperous and longer life. Alternate translation: “preserves a persons life” or “helps a person to make good decisions and to live a longer life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
302ECC713x6a8figs-rquestion0Who can straighten out anything he has made crooked?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one can change something that God has done. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can straighten out anything he has made crooked.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
303ECC714iig7figs-idiom0When times are good…when times are badThe word “times” is an idiom for “things happening.” Alternate translation: “When good things happen…when bad things happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
304ECC714ab9b0live happily in that good“be happy about those good things”
305ECC714c4j4figs-idiom0both to exist side by sideThe phrase “side by side” is an idiom that means “this one” and “this one.” Alternate translation: “both to exist” or “there to be both good and bad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
306ECC714ey3r0anything that is coming after himPossible meanings are 1) “anything that happens in the future” or 2) “anything that happens to him after he dies.”
307ECC715q4930in my meaningless days“in my meaningless life”
308ECC715vy5k0in spite of their righteousness“even though they are righteous”
309ECC715la4s0in spite of their evil“even though they are evil”
310ECC716ux2cfigs-parallelism0self-righteous, wise in your own eyesThese two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
311ECC716p2av0Do not be self-righteous“Do not think that you are more righteous than you actually are”
312ECC716n342figs-metaphor0wise in your own eyesThe eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “being wise in your own opinion” or “being wise according to your own judgement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
313ECC716tc29figs-rquestion0Why should you destroy yourself?The writer uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that being self-righteous destroys a person. Alternate translation: “There is no reason to destroy yourself.” or “If you think this way you will destroy yourself.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
314ECC717s5mmfigs-rquestion0Why should you die before your time?The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no reason for people to do things that will cause them to die early. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is no reason for you to die sooner than you should.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
315ECC718u3fafigs-metaphor0take hold of this wisdomThis speaks of striving to be wise as if “wisdom” were an object that a person could hold on to. Alternate translation: “commit yourself to this wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
316ECC718p1xyfigs-metaphor0you should not let go of righteousnessThis speaks of striving to be righteous as if “righteousness” were an object that a person could hold on to. Alternate translation: “you should not stop trying to be righteous” or “you should keep trying to be righteous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
317ECC718m73i0will meet all his obligations“will do everything that God expects of him”
318ECC719ugu90Wisdom is powerful in the wise man, more than ten rulers in a city“Wisdom makes a man powerful; it makes him more powerful than ten rulers in a city”
319ECC720uf5z0does good and never sins“does good things and does not sin”
320ECC721q4dkfigs-activepassive0every word that is spokenThis can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “everything that people say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
321ECC722wq73figs-rpronouns0you know yourself“you yourself know.” Here “yourself” is used to emphasize the phrase “you know.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
322ECC722t45lfigs-metonymy0in your own heartHere a persons thoughts are represented by their “heart.” Alternate translation: “in your own thoughts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
323ECC723ix7dfigs-explicit0All this have I provenhere the word “this” refers to all of the things the author has written about. Alternate translation: “All this that I have already written about have I proven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
324ECC723fw1m0it was more than I could be“it was beyond my ability to understand” or “but I was not able to do it”
325ECC724y2i9figs-idiom0far off and very deepThis speaks of wisdom being difficult to understand as if it were something located far away or in a very deep place. Alternate translation: “difficult to understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
326ECC724p3a6figs-rquestion0Who can find it?The writer uses this rhetorical question to emphasize the difficulty in understanding wisdom. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can understand it.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
327ECC725l5xjfigs-metonymy0I turned my heartHere the word “heart” refers to the mind. Also, here the word “turned” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “I directed my thoughts” or “I determined” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
328ECC725p2l6figs-abstractnouns0the explanations of reality“the reason for things.” This word “explanations” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “how to explain various things in life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
329ECC726p367figs-metaphor0any woman whose heart is full of snares and nets, and whose hands are chainsThe writer says that the seductive woman is like traps that hunters use to catch animals. The author speaks of a woman being seductive as if she traps men like a hunter traps animals. Her “heart” represents her thoughts and emotions. Alternate translation: “any woman who traps men by seducing them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
330ECC726lxk1figs-doublet0snares and netsThese two words both refer to ways in which people trap animals to emphasize how the woman traps men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
331ECC726kh37figs-metaphor0whose hands are chainsHere the word “hands” refers to her power and control. This speaks of her being seductive as if hands were chains that she bound people with. Alternate translation: “from whom no one can escape” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
332ECC726h6z9figs-activepassive0the sinner will be taken by herThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “she will capture the sinner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
333ECC727vsz7figs-abstractnouns0adding one discovery to anotherThe word “discovery” can be expressed as a verb. The word “adding” here is used as an idiom. Alternate translation: “discovering one thing after another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
334ECC727k9h2figs-abstractnouns0in order to find an explanation of realityThis word “explanation” can be expressed as a verb. See how the phrase “explanations of reality” is translated in [Ecclesiastes 7:25](../07/25.md). Alternate translation: “in order to be able to explain things in life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
335ECC728twu8translate-numbers0one righteous man among a thousand“1 righteous man among 1,000.” Only one righteous man was found in a group of 1,000 people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
336ECC728xkw30a woman among all thoseThere were no righteous women found in a group of 1,000 people.
337ECC729dra30they have gone away looking for many difficultiesPossible meanings are 1) “they have made many sinful plans” or 2) “they have made their own lives difficult.”
338ECC729e78nfigs-metaphor0they have gone awayHere the word “they” refers to “humanity.” This speaks of humanity changing from being upright to not being upright as if they were going from one place to another. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
339ECC8introg2ul0# Ecclesiastes 08 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 8:1 and 8:5-8.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Wisdom<br>Solomon, known for his wisdom, gives a detailed description of wisdom. True wisdom is seeking to honor God. This is the only thing that lasts. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]])<br>
340ECC81sfc80Who is a wise man? Who knows what the events in life mean?The writer asks these as leading questions to provide the answer in what he says next.
341ECC81v1sffigs-idiom0causes his face to shineThis means that the persons face will show that he has wisdom. Alternate translation: “shows on his face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
342ECC81e5zqfigs-idiom0the hardness of his faceThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “his harsh appearance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
343ECC81beu2figs-activepassive0is changedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “changes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
344ECC82ig6x0Gods oath to protect him“the oath you made before God to protect him”
345ECC83jz73figs-metaphor0Do not hurry out of his presencePossible meanings are 1) not to be hasty to physically leave the kings presence or 2) This is a metaphor that speaks of being loyal to the king as being in his presence. Alternate translation: “Do not abandon the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
346ECC84mc7i0The kings word rules“What the king says is the law”
347ECC84k14sfigs-rquestion0who will say to himThis rhetorical question emphasizes that no one will ask the king the following question. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “no one can say to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
348ECC84fn4sfigs-rquestion0What are you doing?This rhetorical question is a rebuke. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not be doing what you are doing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
349ECC85v9wufigs-synecdoche0A wise mans heart recognizesHere a man is represented by his “heart” to emphasize his thoughts. Alternate translation: “A wise man recognizes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
350ECC85qc3y0the proper course and time of action“the correct time to do things and the right way to do them”
351ECC87l5bdfigs-rquestion0Who can tell him what is coming?This rhetorical question emphasizes that no one knows what will happen in the future. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can tell him what is coming.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
352ECC88md5bfigs-simile0No one is ruler over his breath so as to stop the breath…no one has power over the day of his deathJust as no one has the ability to stop himself from breathing, no one can continue living when it is time to die. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
353ECC88vd1v0No one is rulerThe word “ruler” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “No one has control”
354ECC88np67figs-idiom0the day of his deathThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “when he will die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
355ECC88blf2figs-activepassive0No one is discharged from the armyThis can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “No army discharges anyone” or “No army allows soldiers to leave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
356ECC88tfi8figs-personification0wickedness will not rescue those who are its slavesThis speaks of wickedness as if it were a master who had slaves. Alternate translation: “evil people will not be saved by doing what is evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
357ECC89m5mdfigs-synecdoche0I have applied my heartHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:17](../01/17.md). Alternate translation: “I applied myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
358ECC89k1chfigs-activepassive0every kind of work that is doneThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “every kind of work that people do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
359ECC89jnb1figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
360ECC89d2gx0There is a time when a person oppresses another person to that persons hurt“Sometimes one person will oppress another, causing that person to be hurt”
361ECC810a8npfigs-activepassive0the wicked buried publiclyThis can be stated in active form. Evil people that died were given honorable burials. Alternate translation: “people bury the wicked publicly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
362ECC810gw4afigs-activepassive0They were taken from the holy area and buried and were praised by peopleThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People took them from the holy area and buried them and praised them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
363ECC811fl29figs-activepassive0When a sentence against an evil crime is not executed quicklyThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When people in authority do not quickly execute a sentence against an evil crime” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
364ECC811k6a9figs-synecdoche0entices the hearts of human beingsHere people are represented by their “hearts” to emphasize their will and desires. Alternate translation: “entices human beings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
365ECC812ty8mtranslate-numbers0a hundred times“100 times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
366ECC812mh1jfigs-idiom0it will be better for those who respect GodThe phrase “it will be better” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “life will be better for those who respect God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
367ECC812x5tlfigs-parallelism0who respect God…who stand before him and show him respectThese two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined to emphasize people respecting God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
368ECC813y6mkfigs-activepassive0his life will not be prolongedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will not prolong his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
369ECC813jsa6figs-simile0His days are like a fleeting shadowThis speaks of how the wicked mans life passes quickly by saying that it is like a shadow that quickly disappears. Alternate translation: “His days will pass as quickly as a shadow disappears” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
370ECC813e7yl0His days are“His life is”
371ECC814e2e2figs-activepassive0something else that is done on the earthThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “something else that people do on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
372ECC814vn88figs-metaphor0this also is useless vapor“this also is useless mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated the word “vapor” in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “this also is as useless as vapor” or “this also is meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
373ECC815e8jjfigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
374ECC815n76xfigs-idiom0for all the days of his life that God has given himThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “for as long as God allows him to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
375ECC816q9usfigs-synecdoche0I applied my heartHere the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:17](../01/17.md). Alternate translation: “I applied myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
376ECC816d9safigs-activepassive0the work that is done on the earthThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the work that people do on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
377ECC816ct32figs-synecdoche0without sleep for the eyesHere a person is represented by his “eyes.” Alternate translation: “without sleeping” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
378ECC817vk1qfigs-activepassive0the work that is done under the sunPossible meanings are 1) “the work that God does under the sun” or 2) “the work that God allows people to do under the sun.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
379ECC817gl2wfigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
380ECC9introj3kr0# Ecclesiastes 09 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 9:2, 5-6, and 11-12.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Judgment<br>This chapter explains that there is one thing that awaits all people: judgment. When people die, they will all face Yahwehs judgment. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])<br>
381ECC91hpl40I thought about all this in my mind“I thought very deeply about all this”
382ECC91dt8e0They are all in Gods handsHere the word “they” refers to “the righteous and wise people” as well as “their deeds.”
383ECC91l7srfigs-metonymy0in Gods handsHere the word “hands” refers to power and authority. Alternate translation: “under Gods control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
384ECC91ubx9figs-personification0whether love or hate will come to someoneThis speaks of “love” and “hate” as if they are people that may come to visit someone else. Alternate translation: “whether someone will experience love or hate” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
385ECC92j1u2figs-merism0righteous people and wickedThis refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of righteous and wicked people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
386ECC92pff6figs-nominaladj0wicked…the good…the clean and the uncleanAll of these phrases refer to people. Alternate translation: “wicked people…good people…clean people and unclean people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
387ECC92y27ffigs-merism0the clean and the uncleanThis refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of clean and unclean people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
388ECC92yje9figs-metaphor0the cleanA person who is acceptable for Gods purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically clean. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
389ECC92k7lsfigs-metaphor0the uncleanA person who is not acceptable for Gods purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
390ECC92vsk6figs-merism0the one who sacrifices and the one who does not sacrificeThis refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of those who sacrifice and those who do not. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
391ECC92lu29figs-merism0As good people…so also will the sinnerThis refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of good people and sinners. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
392ECC92d65ffigs-ellipsis0will the sinner…will the man who fears to make an oathIt is understood that this refers to people dying. Alternate translation: “the sinner will die…the man who fears to make an oath will die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
393ECC92v2shfigs-merism0the one who swears…so also will the man who fears to make an oathThis refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of those who swear oaths and those who do not.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
394ECC93f3q9figs-activepassive0everything that is doneThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “everything that happens” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
395ECC93cz36figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
396ECC93ex390the same eventdeath
397ECC93vf5kfigs-metonymy0The hearts of human beings are full of evil, and madness is in their heartsHere the word “hearts” refers to the thoughts and emotions. Alternate translation: “Human beings are full of evil, and their thoughts are of madness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
398ECC93zyc70madness“folly”
399ECC93ha8wfigs-nominaladj0they go to the deadThe phrase “the dead” refers to dead people. Here dead people represent the place where people go after they die. Alternate translation: “they go to the place where dead people are” or “they die and go to the grave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
400ECC94a4uffigs-nominaladj0the livingThis refers to people who are alive. Alternate translation: “who are alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
401ECC94s9jyfigs-simile0just as a living dog is better than a dead lionA “dog” was considered a lowly animal while a lion was considered a noble animal. This speaks of it being better to be lowly and alive than to be considered noble and dead. Alternate translation: “It is better to be lowly like a dog and to be alive than to be noble like a lion and to be dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
402ECC95tg7afigs-nominaladj0the deadThis refers to people who are dead. Alternate translation: “those who are dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
403ECC95sb9pfigs-activepassive0their memory is forgottenThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will forget them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
404ECC96sd1b0Their love, hatred, and envyThis refers to the love, hatred, and envy that the dead people showed others when they were alive.
405ECC96h1uxfigs-activepassive0anything doneThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “anything that people do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
406ECC96wdd9figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
407ECC97r3f2figs-parallelism0eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a happy heartThese two phrases share similar meanings and emphasize the importance of enjoying the basic activities of life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
408ECC97al9qfigs-synecdoche0your breadThis refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “your food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
409ECC97upb4figs-metonymy0drink your wine with a happy heartHere the word “heart” refers to the emotions. Alternate translation: “drink your wine joyfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
410ECC98zd1xtranslate-symaction0Let your clothes be always white and your head anointed with oilWearing white clothes and anointing ones head with oil were both signs of gladness and celebration. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
411ECC98weg3figs-activepassive0your head anointed with oilThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “anoint your head with oil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
412ECC99ack2figs-explicit0Live happily with the wife whom you loveOne should love the wife he has. Alternate translation: “Since you have a wife whom you love, live happily with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
413ECC99i7lkfigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
414ECC99b2jb0your days“your lifetime”
415ECC99vd3d0That is your rewardThe word “that” refers to living happily with his wife.
416ECC910dt8tfigs-synecdoche0Whatever your hand finds to doHere a person is represented by his “hand” since a person often uses his hands to work. Alternate translation: “Whatever you are able to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
417ECC910nrd5figs-abstractnouns0there is no work or explanation or knowledge or wisdomThe nouns “work, “explanation,” and “knowledge” can be expressed as verbs. Alternate translation: “the dead do not work or explain or know or have wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
418ECC911xi11figs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
419ECC911k49c0The race does not belong to…The battle does not belong to“The race is not always won by…The battle is not always won by”
420ECC911u2xlfigs-metonymy0BreadHere “Bread” refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “Food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
421ECC911l8sxfigs-idiom0time and chance affect them allThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “what happens and when it happens affect them all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
422ECC911dqc60affect them all“affects all these things.” Here the words “them all” refer to race, battle, bread, riches, and favor.
423ECC912ku8afigs-euphemism0when his time will comeThis refers to when a person dies. Alternate translation: “when he will die” or “when the time of his death will come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
424ECC912u9tdfigs-simile0fish are caught…birds are caught…the children of human beings are ensnaredThis speaks of people dying when they do not expect it, in the same way that people catch animals and kill them when they do not expect it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
425ECC912u32nfigs-activepassive0the children of human beings are ensnared by evil timesThis can be stated in active form. Also, this speaks of people experiencing disaster and unfortunate times as if they were being imprisoned or trapped. Alternate translation: “evil times are coming upon the children of human beings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
426ECC912k3kafigs-idiom0that suddenly fall upon themThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “at times when they do not expect them to happen” or “that suddenly happen to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
427ECC913us6gfigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
428ECC914m1e3figs-synecdoche0a great king came against itHere the “king” represents himself and his whole army. Alternate translation: “a great king and his army” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
429ECC914ax6u0great siege rampsThis refers to dirt ramps the army built up against the city walk so that they could climb up and attack the city.
430ECC915bx8xfigs-activepassive0in the city was found a poor, wise manThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “in the city, people found a poor, wise man” or “a poor, wise man lived in the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
431ECC916k3flfigs-activepassive0the poor mans wisdom is despisedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people despise the poor mans wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
432ECC916i9hlfigs-activepassive0his words are not heardthis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they do not listen to what he says” or “they do not take his advice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
433ECC917h8wqfigs-activepassive0The words of wise people spoken quietly are heard betterHere “heard” represents understanding. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “It is easier to understands the words that wise people speak quietly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
434ECC10introawi80# Ecclesiastes 10 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in all of chapter 10.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Advice<br>This chapter gives a series of disconnected pieces of advice. Translators should not try to smooth the transitions between these pieces of advice. The advice in these statements do not apply in every situation. Therefore, they should be seen as “good ideas.”<br>
435ECC101m6u5figs-simile0As dead flies…so a little follyJust as flies can ruin perfume, so folly can ruin a persons reputation for wisdom and honor. This speaks of how a little folly can ruin a persons reputation in the same way that a few dead flies ruin perfume. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
436ECC101u5bvfigs-personification0a little folly can overpower wisdom and honorThis speaks of how a person acting foolishly can ruin his reputation as if his “folly” and “wisdom and honor” were people and that his folly overpowered his wisdom and honor. Alternate translation: “committing a little folly can ruin a persons wisdom and honor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
437ECC102rs5sfigs-metonymy0The heart of a wise person…the heart of a foolHere the word “heart” refers to the mind or will. Alternate translation: “The way a wise person thinks…the way a fool thinks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
438ECC102h1frfigs-idiom0tends to the right…tends to the leftHere the words “right” and “left” refer to what is right and wrong. Alternate translation: “tends to doing what is right…tends to doing what is wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
439ECC103fe16figs-explicit0his thinking is deficientThis refers to the way that he acts. Alternate translation: “he is stupid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
440ECC104r1x8figs-metonymy0If the emotions of a ruler rise up against youHere a ruler is represented by his “emotions” Alternate translation: “If a ruler becomes angry with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
441ECC104vup70Calm can quiet down great outrage“By remaining calm you may cause an outraged person to become quiet”
442ECC105ua6afigs-idiom0under the sunThis refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
443ECC106tiw2figs-activepassive0Fools are given leadership positionsThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Rulers give positions of leadership to fools” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
444ECC106jq78figs-activepassive0successful men are given low positionsThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they give low positions to successful men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
445ECC106af2efigs-idiom0low positionsThis is an idiom. AT” “unimportant positions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
446ECC107fkc8figs-simile0successful men walking like slaves on the groundThis speaks of successful men walking like slaves walk, because slaves were usually forced to walk and were not permitted to ride. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
447ECC108b8rcfigs-explicit0a snake can bite himThis refers to a snake that was hiding inside the wall. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
448ECC109t2ui0cuts out stonesThis refers working in a quarry and cutting larger stones.
449ECC109pe5jfigs-activepassive0can be hurt by themThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those stones can hurt him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
450ECC109up7bfigs-activepassive0is endangered by itThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the wood may injure him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
451ECC1010wjy90wisdom provides an advantage for successA wise person would have sharpened his blade and would not have had to work so hard.
452ECC1011mr9rfigs-activepassive0before it is charmedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “before the snake charmer charms it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
453ECC1012f4t6figs-metonymy0The words of a wise mans mouth are graciousHere the wise mans speech is represented by his “mouth.” Alternate translation: “The things that a wise man says are gracious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
454ECC1012hcw8figs-metonymy0the lips of a fool consume himHere the fools speech is represented by his “lips.” This speaks of the fool destroying himself by his speech as if it were eating him. Alternate translation: “The things that a foolish man says destroy him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
455ECC1013z31vfigs-metonymy0As words begin to flow from a fools mouthA fools speech is represented by his “mouth.” Alternate translation: “As a fool begins to speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
456ECC1013z9w4figs-metonymy0at the end his mouth flows with wicked madnessA fools speech is represented by his “mouth.” Alternate translation: “as he finishes talking, he speaks wicked madness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
457ECC1014q1x3figs-idiom0multiplies wordsThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “keeps on talking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
458ECC1014m6dn0what is coming“what will happen in the future”
459ECC1014y3nufigs-rquestion0Who knows what is coming after him?The writer asks this question to emphasize that no one knows what will happen in the future after ones death. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one knows what is coming after him.” or “No one knows what will happen after he dies.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
460ECC1015r99gfigs-activepassive0wearies themThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Fools become weary by their toil” or “Fools feel tired by the work that they do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
461ECC1015d4gn0so that they do not even know the road to townPossible meanings are 1) “so much that he is unable to find the road to town.” That the foolish person becomes so tired from working too hard that he is unable to find his way anywhere, or 2) “because he does not even know the way to town.” That the foolish person becomes tired from working too hard because he does not know enough to go home.
462ECC1016uz4dfigs-apostrophe0Woe to you, landThe writer is speaking to the people of the nation as if they were the land itself, and he is speaking to the land as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
463ECC1016l3560if your king is a young boyThis means that the king is inexperienced or immature.
464ECC1016yph2figs-explicit0begin feasting in the morningThis implies that the leaders are more concerned with having a good time than with leading the nation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
465ECC1017sy4wfigs-apostrophe0blessed are you, landThe writer is speaking to the people of the nation as if they were the land itself, and he is speaking to the land as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
466ECC1017w79hfigs-explicit0king is the son of noblesThis implies that the son has been trained by his elders in the customs of being a good king. Alternate translation: “king has trained by nobles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
467ECC1017r77c0for strength, and not for drunkennessThis explains why the blessed leaders eat.
468ECC1018hr8gfigs-explicit0Because of laziness the roof sinks inA lazy person does not keep up on the regular house maintenance. Alternate translation: “Because a lazy person does not repair his house, the roof sinks in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
469ECC1018w4lifigs-synecdoche0because of idle handsHere a person is represented by his “hands” Alternate translation: “because of an idle person” or “because the person is idle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
470ECC1018y794figs-synecdoche0the house leaksHere the roof is represented by the whole house. Alternate translation: “the roof leaks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
471ECC1019e3whfigs-abstractnouns0People prepare food for laughterThe word “laughter” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “People prepare food in order to laugh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
472ECC1019jw2qfigs-abstractnouns0wine brings enjoyment to lifeThe word “enjoyment” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “wine helps people to enjoy life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
473ECC1019fsx40money fills the need for everythingPossible meanings are 1) “money provides for every need” or 2) “money provides for both food and wine”
474ECC1020yf3xfigs-metonymy0not even in your mindA persons thoughts are represented by the persons “mind.” Alternate translation: “not even in your thoughts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
475ECC1020qbv80rich people in your bedroom“rich people when you are in your bedroom.” This means that you should not curse rich people even when you are in a private place where no one else will hear.
476ECC1020ba7rfigs-parallelism0For a bird of the sky…can spread the matterThese two lines mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. This speaks of people finding out what you have said as if a small bird would hear what you say and tell other people. Alternate translation: “For a bird may hear what you say and tell the matter to other people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
477ECC11introbyx80# Ecclesiastes 11 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in all of chapter 11.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Advice<br>This chapter gives a series of disconnected pieces of advice. Translators should not try to smooth the transitions between these pieces of advice. The advice in these statements do not apply in every situation. Therefore, they should be seen as “good ideas.”<br>
478ECC111iuj7figs-metaphor0Send out your bread on the waters, for you will find it again after many daysPossible meanings are 1) this is a metaphor that means a person should be generous with his possessions and will then receive generously from others , or 2) that a person should invest his resources overseas and will make a profit from it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
479ECC112gt4a0Share it with seven, even eight peoplePossible meanings are 1) to share your possessions with many people, or 2) to invest your resources in multiple places.
480ECC112qri5translate-numbers0seven, even eight people“7, even 8 people.” This is an idiom that means “numerous” people. Alternate translation: “numerous people” or “multiple people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
481ECC112v5phfigs-metaphor0what disasters are coming on the earthDisasters happening is spoken of as if disasters were something that come to a place. Here “on the earth” may imply that these disasters happen to the person who is commanded to share. Alternate translation: “what disasters may happen in the world” or “what bad things may happen to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
482ECC113k3vi0the clouds are full of rain“the clouds are dark with rain”
483ECC113jz5x0empty themselves on the earth“empty themselves on the ground”
484ECC113g5bdfigs-merism0toward the south or toward the northHere “south” and “north” represent any direction. Alternate translation: “in any direction” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
485ECC114g5q90Anyone who watches the wind might not plantPossible meanings are 1) “Any farmer who pays attention to the wind will not plant when the wind is blowing in the wrong direction” or 2) “Any farmer who pays too much attention to the wind will never plant”
486ECC114mym30anyone who watches the clouds might not harvestPossible meanings are 1) “Any farmer who pays attention to the clouds will not harvest when it is about to rain” or 2) “Any farmer who pays too much attention to the clouds will never harvest”
487ECC115xta9figs-metaphor0As you do not know the path of the windThis speaks of wind blowing as if wind traveled on a path. Alternate translation: “As you do not know where the wind comes from or where it goes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
488ECC115gd8zfigs-synecdoche0how a babys bones growPossible meanings are 1) Here “bones” is a synecdoche representing the baby as a whole. Alternate translation: “how a baby grows” or 2) literally, “how the bones of a baby grow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
489ECC116ncp6figs-synecdoche0work with your handsHere “hands” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “keep on working” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
490ECC116xq2hfigs-doublet0whether morning or evening, or this or thatThese two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the persons work may prosper, no matter what time he has done it. Alternate translation: “whether the seed that you planted in the morning or the seed that you planted in the evening” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
491ECC117n46lfigs-metonymy0light is sweetHere the word “light” refers to being able to see the sun and therefore being alive. And, this speaks of the joy of being alive as if the light had a sweet taste. Alternate translation: “it is a joy to be able to see the sun” or “being alive is delightful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
492ECC117lv5efigs-synecdoche0for the eyes to see the sunThe “eyes” represent the whole person. This phrase means basically the same thing as the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “for a person to see the sun” or “to be alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
493ECC118eh9q0happy in all of themHere the word “them” refers to the years that a person is alive.
494ECC118w1unfigs-metaphor0the coming days of darknessFuture time is spoken of as if the “days are coming” And, here the word “darkness” refers to death. Alternate translation: “how many days that he will be dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
495ECC118y8hl0for they will be manyHere the word “they” refers to the “days of darkness” Alternate translation: “for he will be dead for many more days than he is alive” or “for he will be dead forever”
496ECC118yk5jfigs-metaphor0Everything to come is vanishing vaporHere “vanishing vapor” is a metaphor. Possible meanings are 1) Alternate translation: “No one knows what will happen after he dies” or 2) Alternate translation: “Everything to come is meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
497ECC118fi8k0Everything to comePossible meanings are 1) “Everything that happens after death” or 2) “Everything that happens in the future”
498ECC119kq46figs-parallelism0Take joy, young man, in your youth, and let your heart be joyful in the days of your youthThese two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined to emphasize that the man should be happy while he is young. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
499ECC119h2ecfigs-metonymy0let your heart be joyfulHere the word “heart” represents the emotions. Alternate translation: “be joyful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
500ECC119vv5ufigs-metonymy0Pursue the good desires of your heartHere the word “heart” may represent the mind or emotions. Alternate translation: “Pursue the good things that you desire” or “Pursue the good things that you have determined to pursue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
501ECC119si2afigs-synecdoche0whatever is within the sight of your eyesHere “eyes” represent the whole person. Alternate translation: “whatever you see that you desire” or “whatever you see to be best” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
502ECC119u7ekfigs-abstractnouns0God will bring you into judgment for all these thingsThe abstract noun “judgment” can be stated as “judge” or “make you account” Alternate translation: “God will judge you for all these things” or “God will make you account for all of your actions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
503ECC1110tu41figs-metaphor0Drive anger away from your heartRefusing to be angry is spoken of as if anger were something that can be forced away. Also, “heart” represents a persons emotions. Alternate translation: “Refuse to be angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
504ECC1110y37wfigs-metaphor0because youth and its strength are vaporThe authors speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were “vapor” Just as vapor disappears and does not last, the author speaks of things having no lasting value. See how you translated “vapor” in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “because youth and its strength will not last forever” or “because you will not be young and strong forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
505ECC12introqx5w0# Ecclesiastes 12 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 12:1-7 and 12:13-14.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Advice<br>This chapter gives a series of disconnected pieces of advice. Translators should not try to smooth the transitions between these pieces of advice. The advice in these statements do not apply in every situation. Therefore, they should be seen as “good ideas.”<br><br>### Yahweh<br>At the end of a very impressive life, Solomon looks back and sees that the only real lasting thing in this world is Yahweh. The purpose of his life was to honor Yahweh, something he should have done far more throughout his life. Therefore, he felt that his life was wasted. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
506ECC121jq6tfigs-idiom0call to mindThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “remember” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
507ECC121r69hfigs-metaphor0before the days of difficulty comeFuture time is spoken of as if the “days are coming” Alternate translation: “before you experience difficult times” or “before bad things happen to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
508ECC121f747figs-metaphor0before the years arrive when you say, “I have no pleasure in them,”Future time is spoken of as if “years arrive” Alternate translation: “before you become old when you say, I no longer enjoy being alive,’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
509ECC122n1txfigs-metaphor0do this before the light of the sun…after the rainGrowing old and dying is spoken of as if the sun and moon go dark and dark clouds return. Alternate translation: “do this before it seems to you that the light of the sun…after the rain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
510ECC123ric4figs-metaphor0General Information:The writer describes a house in which various activities stop. This appears to be a metaphor for the human body as it becomes old. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
511ECC123kzg10strong men are bent over“strong men become weak”
512ECC123qs1x0the women who grind cease because they are few“the women who grind grain stop grinding grain because there are few of them”
513ECC124p13xfigs-metaphor0General Information:The writer continues his metaphor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
514ECC124e4kdfigs-activepassive0the doors are shut in the streetThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people shut the doors that lead to the street” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
515ECC124egr6figs-explicit0when men are startled at the voice of a birdIt is implied that the voice of the birds startle the men awake. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “when the voice of a bird startles men awake” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
516ECC124hg6pfigs-metaphor0the singing of girls voices fades awayHere “girls” may be a metaphor for the birds. Alternate translation: “the songs of the birds fade away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
517ECC125q9vkfigs-metaphor0General Information:The writer continues his metaphor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
518ECC125jib4translate-unknown0when the almond tree blossomsThe “almond tree” is a tree that blossoms in the winter with white flowers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
519ECC125p5ymtranslate-unknown0when grasshoppers drag themselves alongA grasshopper is a large, straight-winged insect with long, jointed back legs that give it the ability to jump a long way. Here it can only drag itself because it has gotten old and weak. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
520ECC125zjw9figs-abstractnouns0when natural desires failThe abstract noun “desires” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “when people no longer desire what they once did naturally” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
521ECC125tea9figs-euphemism0Then man goes to his eternal homeThis refers to death. Alternate translation: “Then man goes to the place of the dead forever” or “Then a person dies and never returns to life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
522ECC125m24n0the mourners go down the streetsPossible meanings are 1) that mourners go down the streets to attend a funeral, or 2) that mourners go down the streets to the house of the person who is about to die.
523ECC126buj9figs-idiom0Call to mindThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “Remember” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
524ECC126tl6ufigs-metaphor0before the silver cord is cut…or the water wheel is broken at the wellThe writer speaks of dying as if it were one of these various broken items. Death will break the body just as suddenly as people accidentally break these items while they are using them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
525ECC126e18gfigs-activepassive0the silver cord is cutThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone cuts the silver cord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
526ECC126n7k8figs-activepassive0the golden bowl is crushedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone crushes the golden bowl” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
527ECC126ghm8figs-activepassive0the pitcher is shatteredThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone shatters the pitcher” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
528ECC126h9gcfigs-activepassive0the water wheel is brokenThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone breaks the water wheel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
529ECC127hd1sfigs-metonymy0dust returns to the earthHere the word “dust” refers to the human body that has decomposed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
530ECC128rep2figs-metaphor0A mist of vapor…everything is vanishing vaporThe Teacher speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were “vapor.” Just as vapor disappears and does not last, the author speaks of things having no lasting value. See how you translated “vapor” in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “Temporary and useless…everything is temporary and useless” or “Meaningless…everything is meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
531ECC128tnp30the TeacherSee how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:1](../01/01.md).
532ECC129i4bz0contemplated and set in order“thought much about and arranged” or “thought much about and wrote down”
533ECC1210a9qt0using vivid…wordsThe Teacher wanted the words to be pleasurable to the listener. They bring pleasure because they are well written, not because they are comforting.
534ECC1211k55mfigs-metaphor0The words of wise people…taught by one shepherdThe writer speaks of the teacher who uses his words to instruct people as if the teacher were a shepherd who uses his tools to lead his flock. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
535ECC1211klc6figs-simile0The words of wise people are like goadsThis is a simile. Alternate translation: “Wise people encourage people to act, like a sharp stick encourages an animal to move” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
536ECC1211f4e5figs-simile0Like nails driven deeply are the words of the masters in collections of their proverbsThis is a simile. Alternate translation: “Like you can depend on a nail that a person drives firmly into a piece of wood, so you can depend on the words of the masters in collections of their proverbs” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
537ECC1211l6990the words of the masters in collections of their proverbs“the wise words collected in their proverbs” or “the sayings of the wise”
538ECC1211as9ufigs-activepassive0which are taught by one shepherdThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which one shepherd teaches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
539ECC1212r12d0the making of many books, which has no endThe noun phrase “the making” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “people will never stop making many books”
540ECC1212w94lfigs-synecdoche0brings weariness to the bodyHere “body” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “makes the person tired” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
541ECC1213xk420The end of the matter“The final conclusion on the matter”
542ECC1213nr9nfigs-activepassive0after everything has been heardThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “after you have heard everything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
543ECC1214ele3figs-metaphor0along with every hidden thingThings done in secret is spoken of as if they were an object that was hidden. Alternate translation: “along with everything that people do in secret” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])