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2front:introd82s0# Introduction to Ecclesiastes\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of the Book of Ecclesiastes\n\n1. The author questions the nature of life and the limits of human wisdom (1:16:12)\n1. The author teaches about making wise choices in how one lives (7:112:7)\n1. The conclusion and ending (12:814)\n\n### What is the Book of Ecclesiastes about?\n\nEcclesiastes 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.\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nThe 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.”\n\n### Who wrote the Book of Ecclesiastes?\n\nThe author appears to be Solomon, “the Teacher, the descendant of David and king in Jerusalem.” This is consistent with what Solomon was known for:\n* his wisdom ([Ecclesiastes 1:16](../../ecc/01/16.md) and twenty-six other references to wisdom);\n* his vast wealth ([Ecclesiastes 2:8](../../ecc/02/08.md)), and the pain that comes from wealth ([Ecclesiastes 5:1314](../05/13.md); [Ecclesiastes 4:8](../../ecc/04/08.md); and [Ecclesiastes 9:11](../../ecc/09/11.md));\n* his large number of servants ([Ecclesiastes 2:7](../../ecc/02/07.md) and [Ecclesiastes 10:7](../../ecc/10/07.md));\n* his limitless opportunities for worldly pleasures ([Ecclesiastes 2:12](../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\n* the wide range of his many building projects ([Ecclesiastes 2:46](../02/04.md)).\n\nSolomon 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.\n\n### Why are there so many apparent contradictions in the Book of Ecclesiastes?\n\nSome 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.\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### What does this book teach about how God repays people?\n\nIn 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://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/bless]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]], [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]])\n\n### What value did the Israelites place on the Book of Ecclesiastes?\n\nThe 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.\n\n## Part 3: Important Translation Issues\n\n### What is the meaning of “under the sun?”\n\n“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.\n\n### How do I translate harsh or shocking passages?\n\nParts 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.\n\n### How is life described in the Book of Ecclesiastes?\n\nThe 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.\n\nAt 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.
31:introg7jr0# Ecclesiastes 1 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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 1:211 and 15.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Tone\n\nThe 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
41:2x2dtrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileLike a vapor of mist, like a breeze in the wind, everything vanishes0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
51:3bsv3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhat profit does mankind gain … under the sun?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that mans work is pointless and has no lasting benefit. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Mankind gains no profit … under the sun.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
61:3r9j3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This refers to things that are done on earth. Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
71:4fj3a0# General Information:\n\nThe writer is presenting the natural order of life as he understands it.
81:5n9iarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationhurries back to the place0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
91:8ax86Everything becomes wearisome0“Everything becomes tiring.” Since man is unable to explain these things, it becomes useless to try.
101:8y4verc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheThe eye is not satisfied by what it sees0Here the “eye” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “A person is not satisfied by what his eyes see” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
111:8n7hmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochenor is the ear fulfilled by what it hears0Here the “ear” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “nor is a person content by what his ears hear” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
121:9h89i0# General Information:\n\nThere is nothing new regarding man and his activities.
131:9i85drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewhatever has been done is what will be done0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whatever has happened before is what will happen again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
141:9sv37rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
151:10kws8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionIs there anything about which it may be said, Look, this is new?0This rhetorical question is asked to emphasize that man cannot say there is anything new. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is nothing about which it may be said, Look, this is new.’” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
161:10pdf8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveabout which it may be said0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “about which someone may say” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
171:11h282rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisthat will happen in the future0The understood subject may be supplied. Alternate translation: “the things that will happen in the future” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
181:11si4src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewill not likely be remembered either0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will not likely remember them either” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
191:13mk1hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI applied my mind0Here the author refers to himself by his “mind” to emphasize his thoughts. Alternate translation: “I determined” or “I applied myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
201:13at9zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletto study and to search out0These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize how diligently he studied. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
211:13l4hfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitunder heaven0This refers to things that are done on earth. Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
221:13a36kchildren of mankind0Alternate translation: “human beings”
231:14d4rwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveall the deeds that are done0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “everything that people do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
241:14h2f6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
251:14fw3mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomlook0The author uses this word to draw attention to what he says next. Alternate translation: “indeed” or “really” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
261:14xq7trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismamount to vapor … chasing the wind0These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
271:14jpp7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoramount to vapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
281:14i9d5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorchasing the wind0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
291:15s638rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveThe twisted cannot be straightened! The missing cannot be counted0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People cannot straighten things that are twisted! They cannot count what is not there” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
301:16ql67rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI have spoken to my heart0Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I have spoken to myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
311:16mnf4My mind has seen0Here the author refers to himself by his “mind” to emphasize what he has learned. Alternate translation: “I have gained” or “I have learned”
321:17ewq3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI applied my heart0Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I determined” or “I applied myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
331:17bp2yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletmadness and folly0The words “madness” and “folly” share similar meanings and refer to foolish thinking and behavior, respectively. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
341:17msw2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoran attempt to shepherd the wind0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
352:introcab90# Ecclesiastes 2 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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 2:1016.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Pleasures\n\nWhen 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.\n\n## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter\n\n### Assumed knowledge\n\nIt 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
362:1dd5vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI said in my heart0Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
372:1shl4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsI will test you with happiness0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
382:1c2cnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsSo enjoy pleasure0The word “pleasure” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “So I will enjoy things that please me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
392:1af7frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthis also was just a temporary breeze0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
402:2v8jjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotationsI said about laughter, “It is crazy,”0The direct quotation can be translated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “I said that it is crazy to laugh at things” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
412:2s5xcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhat use is it?0The author uses a rhetorical question to emphasize that pleasure is useless. Alternate translation: “It is useless.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
422:3pim6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI explored in my heart0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
432:3qyb2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsto gratify my desires with wine0The word “desires” may be expressed as a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “to use wine to make myself happy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
442:3ce8xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationI let my mind guide me with wisdom0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
452:3t4xmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitunder heaven0This refers to things that are done on earth. Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
462:3dp1pduring the days of their lives0Alternate translation: “during the time that they are alive”
472:4l8k8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI built houses for myself and planted vineyards0The writer probably told people to do the work. Alternate translation: “I had people build houses and plant vineyards for me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
482:5b7j9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI built for myself gardens and parks; I planted0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
492:5ju37rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletgardens and parks0These two words share similar meanings and refer to beautiful orchards of fruit trees. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
502:6s54krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI created0The writer probably told people to do the work. Alternate translation: “I had them create” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
512:6f5w7to water a forest0Alternate translation: “to provide water for a forest”
522:6yp4prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveforest where trees were grown0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “forest where trees grew” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
532:7apg7I had slaves born in my palace0Alternate translation: “I had slaves that were born in my palace” or “My slaves bore children and they also were my slaves”
542:7ux74rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsismuch more than any king0The understood verb may be supplied. Alternate translation: “much more than any other king had” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
552:8n6xarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitthe treasures of kings and provinces0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
562:8z349rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyprovinces0Here “provinces” represents the rulers of the provinces. Alternate translation: “the rulers of provinces” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
572:8sng5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitthe delights of the children of humanity—and many concubines0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
582:9v6kurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitthan all who were before me in Jerusalem0This refers to all the previous rulers of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “than all the kings who had ruled before me in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
592:9hz3nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiommy wisdom remained with me0This is an idiom. “I continued to act wisely” or “I continued to be wise” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
602:10ner1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheWhatever my eyes desired … from them0Here the author refers to himself by his “eyes” to emphasize what he sees. Alternate translation: “Whatever I saw and desired … from myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
612:10v74vI did not withhold from them0This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “I got for them”
622:10vdf1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI did not withhold my heart from any pleasure0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
632:10bsh6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochemy heart rejoiced0Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his desires. Alternate translation: “I rejoiced” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
642:11p9rsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheall the deeds that my hands had accomplished0Here the author refers to himself by his “hands.” Alternate translation: “all that I had accomplished” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
652:11s4rmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismvapor … an attempt to shepherd the wind0These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
662:11bmh2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
672:11g17wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoran attempt to shepherd the wind0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
682:11ce6qThere was no profit under the sun in it0Alternate translation: “But it had no profit under the sun”
692:11wz2frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
702:12l7xprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletmadness and folly0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
712:12u6brrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionFor what can the next king do who comes after the king, which has not already been done?0The 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. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
722:12f76dthe next king … who comes after the king0Alternate translation: “the king … who succeeds the current king” or “the next king … who comes after me”
732:13p1yirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similewisdom has advantages over folly, just as light is better than darkness0This speaks of how wisdom is better than folly by comparing it to how light is better than darkness. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
742:14ml2frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe wise man uses his eyes in his head to see where he is going0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
752:14dub9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomuses his eyes in his head to see0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “pays attention and looks to see” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
762:14j96urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe fool walks in darkness0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
772:14r1qqthe same event0death
782:15fe31rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI said in my heart0Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
792:15ugh6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionSo what difference does it make if I am very wise?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no benefit to being wise. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “So it makes no difference if I am very wise.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
802:15l9ywrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI concluded in my heart0Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I concluded” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
812:15b6qtrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoris only vapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
822:16ybg8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveFor the wise man, like the fool, is not remembered for very long0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
832:16h7gzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveeverything will have been long forgotten0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will have long forgotten everything” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
842:17few8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveall the work done0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “all the work that people do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
852:17sek4was evil to me0Alternate translation: “troubled me”
862:17l4jfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismvapor … an attempt to shepherd the wind0These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
872:17a874rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
882:17i7parc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoran attempt to shepherd the wind0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
892:17y4bhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
902:18cl3kto the man who comes after me0Alternate translation: “to the man who inherits it after me”
912:19gjx9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionFor who knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool?0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
922:19je2lhe will be0The word “he” refers to the authors heir.
932:19eb64rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
942:19w9z7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythat my work and wisdom have built0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
952:19ud4arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
962:20gs18rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochemy heart began to despair0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
972:21j6gewho works with wisdom, with knowledge, and skill0Alternate translation: “who works wisely and skillfully, using the things that he has learned”
982:21y72qwho has not made any of it0Alternate translation: “who has not worked for any of it”
992:21klw5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1002:21j6ura great tragedy0Alternate translation: “a great disaster”
1012:22k62mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionFor what profit does the person gain who works so hard and tries in his heart to complete his labors under the sun?0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1022:22g69drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismworks so hard and tries in his heart0These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize how strenuously the person works. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1032:22t8lprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomtries in his heart0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “tries anxiously” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1042:22v87nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1052:23b5zvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletpainful and stressful0These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize how difficult the persons work is. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1062:23f3zgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomhis soul does not find rest0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1072:24xa3qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyGods hand0Here God is represented by his “hand” to emphasize how he provides for people. Alternate translation: “from God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1082:25x4m8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionFor who can eat or who can have any kind of pleasure apart from God?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no pleasure can be had without Gods provision. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “For no one can eat or have any kind of pleasure apart from God.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1092:26s16qso that he may give it away to someone who pleases God0Possible 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”
1102:26fs9nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismvapor … an attempt to shepherd the wind0These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1112:26v8znrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1122:26e7hmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoran attempt to shepherd the wind0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1133:introa9c10# Ecclesiastes 3 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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 3:18 and 3:15.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Parallelism\n\nThe 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.
1143:1q8gzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism0# General Information:\n\nThe writer uses merisms to describe various aspects of life from one extreme to the other. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1153:1hn82rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismFor everything there is an appointed time, and a season for every purpose0These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1163:1s8amrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder heaven0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1173:2ga5ba time to pull up plants0This could mean: (1) “a time to harvest” or (2) “a time to uproot.”
1183:5yg8lembrace0to hold someone in your arms to show love or friendship
1193:8f1furc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism0# General Information:\n\nThe writer concludes using merisms to describe various aspects of life from one extreme to the other. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1203:9q3gkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhat profit does the worker gain in his labor?0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1213:11z9kkGod has made everything suitable for its own time0“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:
1223:11k5derc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyplaced eternity in their hearts0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1233:11jac1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismfrom their beginning all the way to their end0This refers to the beginning and the end and all that is in between. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1243:13cyl8should understand how to enjoy0Alternate translation: “should learn how to enjoy” or “should enjoy”
1253:14w9c2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveNothing can be added to it or taken away0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “No one can add anything to or take anything away from it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1263:16iyt8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismI have seen the wickedness … wickedness was there0These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize how common wicked behavior is. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1273:16i932in place of righteousness0Alternate translation: “where there should be righteousness”
1283:16ib3mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1293:17h7j6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI said in my heart0Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1303:17ar25rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjthe righteous and the wicked0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1313:17s71grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletevery matter and every deed0These two phrases mean basically the same thing and refer to every action that people do. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1323:18tst7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI said in my heart0Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1333:18uam6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similethey are like animals0Here the author says that human beings are like animals. In the next verse the author explains clearly how humans are like animals. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1343:19az6dis the same fate for them0Alternate translation: “is the same for both of them” or “is the same”
1353:19i4mvThe breath is the same for all of them0Alternate translation: “All of them breathe same”
1363:19y2ndThere is no advantage for mankind over the animals0Alternate translation: “Mankind is no better off than the animals”
1373:19q66prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoris not everything just a breath?0Here 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. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Everything is just a breath.” or “Everything is as temporary as a breath.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1383:20gi8hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitEverything is going to the same place0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1393:20d4kmdust0soil
1403:21h8x9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWho knows whether the spirit … into the earth?0The author asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one truly knows what happens after people and animals die. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one knows whether the spirit … into the earth.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1413:22h5jmthere is nothing better for anyone than to0See how you translated this phrase in [Ecclesiastes 3:12](../03/12.md).
1423:22lqg2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWho can bring him back to see what happens after him?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one will see what happens after he dies. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one of us knows what happens to us after we die.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1434:introev1x0# Ecclesiastes 4 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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 4:13, 4:56, and 4:812.\n\n## Important figures of speech in this chapter\n\n### Irony\n\nThe 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://*/tw/dict/bible/other/oppress]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/lament]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1444:1cuy2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1454:1ys32behold, the tears0Alternate translation: “I looked and I saw”
1464:1zp3irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythe tears of oppressed people0Here “tears” represent weeping. Alternate translation: “the oppressed people were weeping” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1474:1c1svrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyPower was in the hand of their oppressors0This means that their oppressors were powerful. Here their “hand” represents what thet possess. Alternate translation: “Their oppressors were powerful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1484:2g9ptrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismthe living, who are still alive0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1494:3ekt2more fortunate than both of them is the one who has not yet lived0Alternate translation: “the one who has not yet been born is better off than both of them”
1504:3q72xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitboth of them0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1514:3hua5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1524:4y7i7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsbecame the envy of ones neighbor0The word “envy” may be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “made ones neighbor envious” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1534:4u7wtthe envy of ones neighbor0This could mean: (1) The neighbor envies the object his neighbor made, or (2) the neighbor envies the skills his neighbor has.
1544:4e19xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismvapor … an attempt to shepherd the wind0These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1554:4u3t7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1564:4m36wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoran attempt to shepherd the wind0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1574:5vfv8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionThe fool folds his hands and does not work0To 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://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1584:5b92hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorso his food is his own flesh0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1594:6n1d9a handful0Alternate translation: “a small amount”
1604:6mw6lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsistwo handfuls0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1614:6se1lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthat tries to shepherd the wind0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1624:7civ1futility0being useless, without profit
1634:7w5f8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphormore vanishing vapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1644:7w5strc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1654:7x1r1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1664:8a3v5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitno son or brother0This person has no family. Alternate translation: “he has no family” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1674:8np2nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochehis eyes are not satisfied0Here the whole person is represented by his “eyes” to emphasize his desires. Alternate translation: “he is not satisfied” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1684:8cx1eFor whom am I toiling and depriving myself of pleasure0Alternate translation: “Will anyone benefit from me working hard and not enjoying myself”
1694:10r5m2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationsorrow follows the one who is alone when he falls0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1704:11b486rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitIf two lie down together, they can be warm0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1714:11b6ywrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionhow can one be warm alone?0This 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. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1724:12cj73rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveOne man alone can be overpowered0This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone can overpower a person who is alone” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1734:12aq3cbut two0Alternate translation: “but two people”
1744:12r98swithstand an attack0Alternate translation: “defend themselves against an attack”
1754:12mg67rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphora three-strand rope0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1764:12iur4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivea three-strand rope is not quickly broken0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people cannot easily break a rope made with three strands” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1774:13uhs1wise youth0Alternate translation: “wise young man”
1784:13uye4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymywho no longer knows how0Here knowing represents willingness. Alternate translation: “who is no longer willing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1794:14k5lmfrom prison0Alternate translation: “after being in prison”
1804:14xu6rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicithe was born poor in his kingdom0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1814:15l8cp0# General Information:\n\nInstead of choosing the wise youth, the people choose the kings son, who may not be any wiser.
1824:15pj25rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismalive … walking around0The words “alive” and “walking around” mean basically the same thing and are combined to emphasize living people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1834:15s7r7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1844:16rru3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleThere is no end to all the people0This is an exaggeration used to emphasize a large number of people. Alternate translation: “There are very many people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1854:16xk33rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismvapor … an attempt to shepherd the wind0These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1864:16xp58rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1874:16l1y1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoran attempt to shepherd the wind0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1885:introp4zf0# Ecclesiastes 5 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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 5:23, and 5:1017.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Materialism\n\nThe 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.
1895:1h4ufrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyGuard your steps0Here “steps” are a metonym for a persons conduct. Alternate translation: “Be careful how you conduct yourself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1905:2k5isrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismDo not be too quick … do not let your heart be too quick0These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that you should think first before you speak to God about a matter. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1915:2s9ueto speak with your mouth0Here the phrase “with your mouth” emphasizes and describes a person speaking. Alternate translation: “to speak”
1925:2ucz2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochedo not let your heart0Here a person is represented by his “heart” to emphasize his emotions and desires. Alternate translation: “do not” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1935:2g7vvlet your words be few0Alternate translation: “do not say too much”
1945:4isy3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitdo not delay to do it, for God has no pleasure in fools0It 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1955:6l6vbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyDo not allow your mouth to cause your flesh to sin0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1965:6l7ndrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhy make God angry by vowing falsely, provoking God to destroy the work of your hands?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that it is foolish to make a vow that you will not keep. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1975:6mi3zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochedestroy the work of your hands0Here a person is represented by his “hands.” Alternate translation: “destroy everything you do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1985:7r95zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorFor in many dreams, as in many words, there is meaningless vapor0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1995:8jdl4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe poor being oppressed and robbed0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people oppressing the poor and robbing them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2005:8x1rprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjthe poor0This refers to poor people. Alternate translation: “those who are poor” or “poor people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2015:8h98mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletjust and right treatment0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2025:8d57bdo not be astonished as if no one knows, because there are people0“do not be surprised, for there are people
2035:8kr4zthere are people in power0Alternate translation: “there are people with authority”
2045:8v44rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomeven higher ones over them0There are other men who rule over the men in authority. Alternate translation: “men who have even more authority than they do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2055:9uc5erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsthe produce of the land … produce from the fields0The word “produce” may be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “the food that the land produces … crops from the fields” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2065:10kh3lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2075:11md9brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsAs prosperity increases0The word “prosperity” may be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “As a person becomes more prosperous” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2085:11xh2wso also do the people who consume it0This could mean: (1) “so also the person spends more money” or (2) “so also there will be more people who use his wealth.”
2095:11ncz7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwho consume it0This speaks of people spending wealth as if they were “eating” it. Alternate translation: “who use it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2105:11c2dcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhat advantage in wealth is there to the owner except to watch it with his eyes?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that the wealthy do not benefit from their wealth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “The only benefit that the owner has from wealth is that he can look at it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2115:12d52vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe sleep of a working man is sweet0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2125:12dr7pwhether he eats little or a lot0Alternate translation: “whether he eats a little bit of food or a lot of food”
2135:12u4e4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationbut the wealth of a rich person does not allow him to sleep well0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2145:13m4vdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2155:13j6b2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveriches hoarded by the owner0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “an owner hoards riches” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2165:14d5n4through bad luck0This could mean: (1) “through misfortune” or (2) “through a bad business deal.”
2175:14zb1urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyhis own son, one whom he has fathered, is left with nothing in his hands0Here the phrase “in his hands” represents ownership. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he leaves no possession for his own son” (See:[[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2185:15it6krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorAs a man comes from his mothers womb … he will leave naked0It 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2195:15wl6zcomes from his mothers womb0Alternate translation: “is born”
2205:15zl7hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismhe will leave0This refers to dying. Alternate translation: “he will die” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2215:15fe51rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyHe can take none of the fruits of his labor in his hand0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2225:16qd7urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitas a person comes, so he goes away0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2235:16h3bbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionSo what profit is there for him who works for the wind?0The writer uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no benefit in working for the wind. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one gets any profit in working for the wind.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2245:16dl4prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorworks for the wind0This could mean: (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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2255:17x449rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorDuring his days he eats with darkness0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2265:17rys5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyhis days0Here a persons “days” represent his life. Alternate translation: “his life” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2275:17zw6wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsis greatly distressed with sickness and anger0The words “sickness” and “anger” can be expressed as adjectives. Alternate translation: “suffers greatly, being sick and angry” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2285:18k7uqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomLook0The author uses this word here to draw his readers attention to what he says next. Alternate translation: “Pay attention” or “Listen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2295:18qp65rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletwhat I have seen to be good and suitable0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2305:18ue88rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2315:18m281rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomduring the days of this life that God has given us0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “as long as God allows us to live” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2325:18ued7For this is mans assignment0This could mean: (1) “For this is mans reward” or (2) “For these are the things that he allows man to do”
2335:19n4karc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletriches and wealth0These two words mean basically the same thing. They refer to money and the things that a person can buy with money. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2345:19b3ldto receive his share0Alternate translation: “to accept what he is given”
2355:20iz9mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomhe does not call to mind0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2365:20qr1src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomthe days of his life0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2375:20n32skeep busy0Alternate translation: “stay busy”
2386:introar6e0# Ecclesiastes 6 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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 6:711.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Satisfaction\n\nWhile 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2396:1fyq4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorit weighs heavy on men0Here evil is spoken of as something that is a heavy load to carry. Alternate translation: “it causes hardship for people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2406:2jzl7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletriches, wealth0These two words mean basically the same thing. They refer to money and the things that a person can buy with money. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2416:2n75erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativeshe lacks nothing0This is a double negative. Alternate translation: “he has everything” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2426:2rg6qGod gives him no ability0Alternate translation: “does not give him the ability”
2436:2jr84rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2446:3qq8erc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersfathers a hundred children0“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://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2456:3z9lsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismlives many years, so that the days of his years are many0These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. Alternate translation: “lives many years” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2466:3fun6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochehis heart is not satisfied with good0This refers to a man by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “he is not content with good things” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2476:3qmh2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivehe is not buried0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This could mean: (1) “no one buries him at all” or (2) he receives no honor, “no one buries him properly.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] or [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2486:4g8unsuch a baby is born in futility0Alternate translation: “such a baby is born for nothing”
2496:4tr53rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiompasses away in darkness0This speaks of the death of the baby being as unexplainable as “darkness.” Alternate translation: “dies unexplainably” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2506:4xfu5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorits name remains hidden0This speaks of no one knowing the babys name as if it were a hidden object. Alternate translation: “no one knows its name” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2516:6iz6frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypoEven if a man should live for two thousand years0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2526:6sa97rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numberstwo thousand years0“2,000 years” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2536:6g8tbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicithe goes to the same place as everyone else0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2546:7wf5frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyis for his mouth0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2556:7lc2frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivehis appetite is not satisfied0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he does not satisfy his appetite” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2566:8syz9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionwhat advantage has the wise person over the fool?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that a wise person does not have any more lasting benefits than a fool. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “it seems the wise person has no advantage over the fool.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2576:8gse4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhat advantage does the poor man have even if he knows how to act in front of other people?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that a poor man does not have any more lasting benefits than someone else. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2586:8zy1lhow to act0Alternate translation: “how to conduct himself”
2596:9ays9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymywhat the eyes see0A person can see these things because he already has them. Alternate translation: “what a person has” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2606:9xhe8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyto desire what a wandering appetite craves0This refers to things that a person wants but does not have. Alternate translation: “to want what he does not have” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2616:9n6mwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismvapor … an attempt to shepherd the wind0These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2626:9f92yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2636:9qai8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoran attempt to shepherd the wind0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2646:10vs8grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveWhatever has existed has already been given its name0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People have already named everything that exists” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2656:10f9hgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewhat mankind is like has already been known0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people already know what mankind is like” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2666:10uy4zthe one who is the mighty judge0Alternate translation: “God, who is the mighty judge”
2676:11l9d5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveThe more words that are spoken0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The more words that people speak” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2686:11pz7hthe more futility increases0The more a person speaks, the more likely he will speak about meaningless things. Alternate translation: “the more meaningless those words are”
2696:11s51vfutility0being useless, without profit
2706:11pq2rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionwhat advantage is that to a man?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no advantage for a man to talk a lot. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “that is no advantage to a man.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2716:12cb4rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionFor who knows what is good for man … he passes like a shadow?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no person truly knows what is good for man. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one knows what is good for man … he passes like a shadow.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2726:12jj23rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similein his life during his futile, numbered days through which he passes like a shadow0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2736:12ka2lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWho can tell a man … after he passes?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one knows what will happen after a person dies. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can tell a man … after he passes.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2746:12pjl3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomwhat will come under the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2756:12k2abrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismafter he passes0This is a polite expression for death. Alternate translation: “after he dies” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2767:introfp2g0# Ecclesiastes 7 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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 7:126.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Advice\n\nThis 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.”
2777:1fq9erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyA good name0Here a persons “name” is used to represent their reputation. Alternate translation: “A good reputation” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2787:2y1yxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiommust take this to heart0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “must think seriously about this” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2797:3g9c7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomsadness of face0This refers to being sad. Alternate translation: “an experience that makes a person sad” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2807:3rsl9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymygladness of heart0Here, 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2817:4pli9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheThe heart of the wise is in the house of mourning0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2827:4lly7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochebut the heart of fools is in the house of feasting0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2837:4ux5gthe house of mourning … the house of feasting0These phrases refer to what happens in these places.
2847:5wm3yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsto the rebuke of the wise0The word “rebuke” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “when wise people rebuke you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2857:5lal6to listen to the song of fools0Alternate translation: “to listen to fools sing”
2867:6bh8qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileFor like the crackling of thorns burning under a pot, so also is the laughter of fools0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2877:6im4xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorvapor0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2887:7be8yExtortion0This 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.
2897:7dt3emakes a wise man foolish0This could mean: (1) “turns the wise man into a foolish man” or (2) “makes the advice of the wise man appear to be foolish advice.”
2907:7n3hsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymycorrupts the heart0Here the word “heart” refers to the mind. Alternate translation: “ruins a persons ability to think and judge rightly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2917:8bw3crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythe people patient in spirit are better than the proud in spirit0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2927:9lb8vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyDo not be quick to anger in your spirit0Here the word “spirit” refers to a persons attitude. Alternate translation: “Do not become angry quickly” or “Do not have a bad temper” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2937:9fx66rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoranger resides in the hearts of fools0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2947:10mu3yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhy were the days of old better than these?0The person asks this rhetorical question in order to complain about the present time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Things were better in the past than they are now.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2957:10r6blrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyit is not because of wisdom that you ask this question0Here the author uses irony to rebuke the persons question. Alternate translation: “if you were wise you would not ask this question” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2967:11w53hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomthose who see the sun0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “those who are alive” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2977:12wt8dthe advantage of knowledge is that wisdom gives life0This could mean: (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.”
2987:12erb5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationgives life to whoever has it0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2997:13x6a8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWho can straighten out anything he has made crooked?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one can change something that God has done. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can straighten out anything he has made crooked.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
3007:14iig7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomWhen times are good … when times are bad0The word “times” is an idiom for “things happening.” Alternate translation: “When good things happen … when bad things happen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3017:14ab9blive happily in that good0Alternate translation: “be happy about those good things”
3027:14c4j4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomboth to exist side by side0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3037:14ey3ranything that is coming after him0This could mean: (1) “anything that happens in the future” or (2) “anything that happens to him after he dies.”
3047:15q493in my meaningless days0Alternate translation: “in my meaningless life”
3057:15vy5kin spite of their righteousness0Alternate translation: “even though they are righteous”
3067:15la4sin spite of their evil0Alternate translation: “even though they are evil”
3077:16ux2crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismself-righteous, wise in your own eyes0These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
3087:16p2avDo not be self-righteous0Alternate translation: “Do not think that you are more righteous than you actually are”
3097:16n342rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwise in your own eyes0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3107:16tc29rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhy should you destroy yourself?0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
3117:17s5mmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhy should you die before your time?0The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no reason for people to do things that will cause them to die early. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is no reason for you to die sooner than you should.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
3127:18u3farc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphortake hold of this wisdom0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3137:18p1xyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoryou should not let go of righteousness0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3147:18m73iwill meet all his obligations0Alternate translation: “will do everything that God expects of him”
3157:19ugu9Wisdom is powerful in the wise man, more than ten rulers in a city0Alternate translation: “Wisdom makes a man powerful; it makes him more powerful than ten rulers in a city”
3167:20uf5zdoes good and never sins0Alternate translation: “does good things and does not sin”
3177:21q4dkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveevery word that is spoken0This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “everything that people say” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3187:22wq73rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronounsyou know yourself0“you yourself know.” Here “yourself” is used to emphasize the phrase “you know.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
3197:22t45lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyin your own heart0Here a persons thoughts are represented by their “heart.” Alternate translation: “in your own thoughts” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3207:23ix7drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitAll this have I proven0here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
3217:23fw1mit was more than I could be0Alternate translation: “it was beyond my ability to understand” or “but I was not able to do it”
3227:24y2i9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomfar off and very deep0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3237:24p3a6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWho can find it?0The writer uses this rhetorical question to emphasize the difficulty in understanding wisdom. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can understand it.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
3247:25l5xjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI turned my heart0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3257:25p2l6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsthe explanations of reality0“the reason for things.” This word “explanations” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “how to explain various things in life” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
3267:26p367rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorany woman whose heart is full of snares and nets, and whose hands are chains0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3277:26lxk1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletsnares and nets0These two words both refer to ways in which people trap animals to emphasize how the woman traps men. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
3287:26kh37rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwhose hands are chains0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3297:26h6z9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe sinner will be taken by her0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “she will capture the sinner” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3307:27vsz7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsadding one discovery to another0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3317:27k9h2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsin order to find an explanation of reality0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
3327:28twu8rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersone righteous man among a thousand0“1 righteous man among 1,000.” Only one righteous man was found in a group of 1,000 people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
3337:28xkw3a woman among all those0There were no righteous women found in a group of 1,000 people.
3347:29dra3they have gone away looking for many difficulties0This could mean: (1) “they have made many sinful plans” or (2) “they have made their own lives difficult.”
3357:29e78nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthey have gone away0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3368:introg2ul0# Ecclesiastes 8 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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 8:58.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Wisdom\n\nSolomon, 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://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]])
3378:1sfc8Who is a wise man? Who knows what the events in life mean?0The writer asks these as leading questions to provide the answer in what he says next.
3388:1v1sfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomcauses his face to shine0This means that the persons face will show that he has wisdom. Alternate translation: “shows on his face” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3398:1e5zqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomthe hardness of his face0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “his harsh appearance” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3408:1beu2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveis changed0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “changes” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3418:2ig6xGods oath to protect him0Alternate translation: “the oath you made before God to protect him”
3428:3jz73rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorDo not hurry out of his presence0This could mean: (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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3438:4mc7iThe kings word rules0Alternate translation: “What the king says is the law”
3448:4k14src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionwho will say to him0This rhetorical question emphasizes that no one will ask the king the following question. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “no one can say to him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
3458:4fn4src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhat are you doing?0This rhetorical question is a rebuke. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not be doing what you are doing.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
3468:5v9wurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheA wise mans heart recognizes0Here a man is represented by his “heart” to emphasize his thoughts. Alternate translation: “A wise man recognizes” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
3478:5qc3ythe proper course and time of action0Alternate translation: “the correct time to do things and the right way to do them”
3488:7l5bdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWho can tell him what is coming?0This rhetorical question emphasizes that no one knows what will happen in the future. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can tell him what is coming.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
3498:8md5brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileNo one is ruler over his breath so as to stop the breath … no one has power over the day of his death0Just as no one has the ability to stop himself from breathing, no one can continue living when it is time to die. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
3508:8vd1vNo one is ruler0The word “ruler” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “No one has control”
3518:8np67rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomthe day of his death0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “when he will die” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3528:8blf2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveNo one is discharged from the army0This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “No army discharges anyone” or “No army allows soldiers to leave” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3538:8tfi8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationwickedness will not rescue those who are its slaves0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
3548:9m5mdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI have applied my heart0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
3558:9k1chrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveevery kind of work that is done0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “every kind of work that people do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3568:9jnb1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3578:9d2gxThere is a time when a person oppresses another person to that persons hurt0Alternate translation: “Sometimes one person will oppress another, causing that person to be hurt”
3588:10a8nprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe wicked buried publicly0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Evil people that died were given honorable burials. Alternate translation: “people bury the wicked publicly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3598:10gw4arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveThey were taken from the holy area and buried and were praised by people0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “People took them from the holy area and buried them and praised them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3608:11fl29rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveWhen a sentence against an evil crime is not executed quickly0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “When people in authority do not quickly execute a sentence against an evil crime” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3618:11k6a9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheentices the hearts of human beings0Here people are represented by their “hearts” to emphasize their will and desires. Alternate translation: “entices human beings” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
3628:12ty8mrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersa hundred times0“100 times” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
3638:12mh1jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomit will be better for those who respect God0The phrase “it will be better” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “life will be better for those who respect God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3648:12x5tlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismwho respect God … who stand before him and show him respect0These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined to emphasize people respecting God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
3658:13y6mkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivehis life will not be prolonged0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “God will not prolong his life” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3668:13jsa6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileHis days are like a fleeting shadow0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
3678:13e7ylHis days are0Alternate translation: “His life is”
3688:14e2e2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivesomething else that is done on the earth0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “something else that people do on the earth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3698:14vn88rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthis also is useless vapor0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3708:15e8jjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3718:15n76xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomfor all the days of his life that God has given him0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “for as long as God allows him to live” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3728:16q9usrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheI applied my heart0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
3738:16d9sarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe work that is done on the earth0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the work that people do on the earth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3748:16ct32rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochewithout sleep for the eyes0Here a person is represented by his “eyes.” Alternate translation: “without sleeping” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
3758:17vk1qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe work that is done under the sun0This could mean: (1) “the work that God does under the sun” or (2) “the work that God allows people to do under the sun.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3768:17gl2wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3779:introj3kr0# Ecclesiastes 9 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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, 56, and 1112.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Judgment\n\nThis chapter explains that there is one thing that awaits all people: judgment. When people die, they will all face Yahwehs judgment. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])
3789:1hpl4I thought about all this in my mind0Alternate translation: “I thought very deeply about all this”
3799:1dt8eThey are all in Gods hands0Here the word “they” refers to “the righteous and wise people” as well as “their deeds.”
3809:1l7srrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyin Gods hands0Here the word “hands” refers to power and authority. Alternate translation: “under Gods control” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3819:1ubx9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationwhether love or hate will come to someone0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
3829:2j1u2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismrighteous people and wicked0This refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of righteous and wicked people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
3839:2pff6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjwicked … the good … the clean and the unclean0All of these phrases refer to people. Alternate translation: “wicked people … good people … clean people and unclean people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
3849:2y27frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismthe clean and the unclean0This refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of clean and unclean people. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
3859:2yje9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe clean0A person who is acceptable for Gods purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically clean. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3869:2k7lsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe unclean0A person who is not acceptable for Gods purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3879:2vsk6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismthe one who sacrifices and the one who does not sacrifice0This refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of those who sacrifice and those who do not. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
3889:2lu29rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismAs good people … so also will the sinner0This refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of good people and sinners. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
3899:2d65frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsiswill the sinner … will the man who fears to make an oath0It 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
3909:2v2shrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismthe one who swears … so also will the man who fears to make an oath0This refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of those who swear oaths and those who do not.(See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
3919:3f3q9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveeverything that is done0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “everything that happens” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3929:3cz36rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3939:3ex39the same event0death
3949:3vf5krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyThe hearts of human beings are full of evil, and madness is in their hearts0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3959:3zyc7madness0Alternate translation: “folly”
3969:3ha8wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjthey go to the dead0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3979:4a4ufrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjthe living0This refers to people who are alive. Alternate translation: “who are alive” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
3989:4s9jyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similejust as a living dog is better than a dead lion0A “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
3999:5tg7arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjthe dead0This refers to people who are dead. Alternate translation: “those who are dead” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
4009:5sb9prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivetheir memory is forgotten0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people will forget them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4019:6sd1bTheir love, hatred, and envy0This refers to the love, hatred, and envy that the dead people showed others when they were alive.
4029:6h1uxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveanything done0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “anything that people do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4039:6wdd9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4049:7r3f2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismeat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a happy heart0These two phrases share similar meanings and emphasize the importance of enjoying the basic activities of life. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
4059:7al9qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheyour bread0This refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “your food” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
4069:7upb4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymydrink your wine with a happy heart0Here the word “heart” refers to the emotions. Alternate translation: “drink your wine joyfully” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4079:8zd1xrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionLet your clothes be always white and your head anointed with oil0Wearing white clothes and anointing ones head with oil were both signs of gladness and celebration. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
4089:8weg3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveyour head anointed with oil0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “anoint your head with oil” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4099:9ack2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitLive happily with the wife whom you love0One should love the wife he has. Alternate translation: “Since you have a wife whom you love, live happily with her” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
4109:9i7lkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4119:9b2jbyour days0Alternate translation: “your lifetime”
4129:9vd3dThat is your reward0The word “that” refers to living happily with his wife.
4139:10dt8trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheWhatever your hand finds to do0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
4149:10nrd5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsthere is no work or explanation or knowledge or wisdom0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
4159:11xi11rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4169:11k49cThe race does not belong to … The battle does not belong to0Alternate translation: “The race is not always won by … The battle is not always won by”
4179:11u2xlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyBread0Here “Bread” refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “Food” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4189:11l8sxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomtime and chance affect them all0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “what happens and when it happens affect them all” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4199:11dqc6affect them all0“affects all these things.” Here the words “them all” refer to race, battle, bread, riches, and favor.
4209:12ku8arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismwhen his time will come0This refers to when a person dies. Alternate translation: “when he will die” or “when the time of his death will come” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
4219:12u9tdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similefish are caught … birds are caught … the children of human beings are ensnared0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
4229:12u32nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe children of human beings are ensnared by evil times0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4239:12k3karc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomthat suddenly fall upon them0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “at times when they do not expect them to happen” or “that suddenly happen to them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4249:13us6grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4259:14m1e3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochea great king came against it0Here the “king” represents himself and his whole army. Alternate translation: “a great king and his army” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
4269:14ax6ugreat siege ramps0This refers to dirt ramps the army built up against the city walk so that they could climb up and attack the city.
4279:15bx8xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivein the city was found a poor, wise man0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “in the city, people found a poor, wise man” or “a poor, wise man lived in the city” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4289:16k3flrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe poor mans wisdom is despised0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people despise the poor mans wisdom” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4299:16i9hlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivehis words are not heard0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they do not listen to what he says” or “they do not take his advice” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4309:17h8wqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveThe words of wise people spoken quietly are heard better0Here “heard” represents understanding. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “It is easier to understands the words that wise people speak quietly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
43110:introawi80# Ecclesiastes 10 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Advice\n\nThis 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.”
43210:1m6u5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileAs dead flies … so a little folly0Just 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
43310:1u5bvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationa little folly can overpower wisdom and honor0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
43410:2rs5src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyThe heart of a wise person … the heart of a fool0Here the word “heart” refers to the mind or will. Alternate translation: “The way a wise person thinks … the way a fool thinks” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
43510:2h1frrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomtends to the right … tends to the left0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
43610:3fe16rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicithis thinking is deficient0This refers to the way that he acts. Alternate translation: “he is stupid” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
43710:4r1x8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyIf the emotions of a ruler rise up against you0Here a ruler is represented by his “emotions” Alternate translation: “If a ruler becomes angry with you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
43810:4vup7Calm can quiet down great outrage0Alternate translation: “By remaining calm you may cause an outraged person to become quiet”
43910:5ua6arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomunder the sun0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
44010:6tiw2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveFools are given leadership positions0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Rulers give positions of leadership to fools” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
44110:6jq78rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivesuccessful men are given low positions0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they give low positions to successful men” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
44210:6af2erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomlow positions0This is an idiom. AT” “unimportant positions” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
44310:7fkc8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similesuccessful men walking like slaves on the ground0This speaks of successful men walking like slaves walk, because slaves were usually forced to walk and were not permitted to ride. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
44410:8b8rcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicita snake can bite him0This refers to a snake that was hiding inside the wall. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
44510:9t2uicuts out stones0This refers working in a quarry and cutting larger stones.
44610:9pe5jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivecan be hurt by them0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “those stones can hurt him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
44710:9up7brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveis endangered by it0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the wood may injure him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
44810:10wjy9wisdom provides an advantage for success0A wise person would have sharpened his blade and would not have had to work so hard.
44910:11mr9rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivebefore it is charmed0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “before the snake charmer charms it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
45010:12f4t6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyThe words of a wise mans mouth are gracious0Here the wise mans speech is represented by his “mouth.” Alternate translation: “The things that a wise man says are gracious” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
45110:12hcw8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythe lips of a fool consume him0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
45210:13z31vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyAs words begin to flow from a fools mouth0A fools speech is represented by his “mouth.” Alternate translation: “As a fool begins to speak” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
45310:13z9w4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyat the end his mouth flows with wicked madness0A fools speech is represented by his “mouth.” Alternate translation: “as he finishes talking, he speaks wicked madness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
45410:14q1x3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiommultiplies words0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “keeps on talking” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
45510:14m6dnwhat is coming0Alternate translation: “what will happen in the future”
45610:14y3nurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWho knows what is coming after him?0The writer asks this question to emphasize that no one knows what will happen in the future after ones death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
45710:15r99grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewearies them0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Fools become weary by their toil” or “Fools feel tired by the work that they do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
45810:15d4gnso that they do not even know the road to town0This could mean: (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.
45910:16uz4drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostropheWoe to you, land0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
46010:16l356if your king is a young boy0This means that the king is inexperienced or immature.
46110:16yph2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitbegin feasting in the morning0This implies that the leaders are more concerned with having a good time than with leading the nation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
46210:17sy4wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostropheblessed are you, land0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
46310:17w79hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitking is the son of nobles0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
46410:17r77cfor strength, and not for drunkenness0This explains why the blessed leaders eat.
46510:18hr8grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitBecause of laziness the roof sinks in0A 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
46610:18w4lirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochebecause of idle hands0Here a person is represented by his “hands” Alternate translation: “because of an idle person” or “because the person is idle” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
46710:18y794rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochethe house leaks0Here the roof is represented by the whole house. Alternate translation: “the roof leaks” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
46810:19e3whrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsPeople prepare food for laughter0The word “laughter” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “People prepare food in order to laugh” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
46910:19jw2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounswine brings enjoyment to life0The word “enjoyment” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “wine helps people to enjoy life” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
47010:19fsx4money fills the need for everything0This could mean: (1) “money provides for every need” or (2) “money provides for both food and wine”
47110:20yf3xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymynot even in your mind0A persons thoughts are represented by the persons “mind.” Alternate translation: “not even in your thoughts” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
47210:20qbv8rich people in your bedroom0“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.
47310:20ba7rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismFor a bird of the sky … can spread the matter0These 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
47411:introbyx80# Ecclesiastes 11 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Advice\n\nThis 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.”
47511:1iuj7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorSend out your bread on the waters, for you will find it again after many days0This could mean: (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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
47611:2gt4aShare it with seven, even eight people0This could mean: (1) to share your possessions with many people, or (2) to invest your resources in multiple places.
47711:2qri5rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbersseven, even eight people0“7, even 8 people.” This is an idiom that means “numerous” people. Alternate translation: “numerous people” or “multiple people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
47811:2v5phrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwhat disasters are coming on the earth0Disasters 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
47911:3k3vithe clouds are full of rain0Alternate translation: “the clouds are dark with rain”
48011:3jz5xempty themselves on the earth0Alternate translation: “empty themselves on the ground”
48111:3g5bdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismtoward the south or toward the north0Here “south” and “north” represent any direction. Alternate translation: “in any direction” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
48211:4g5q9Anyone who watches the wind might not plant0This could mean: (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”
48311:4mym3anyone who watches the clouds might not harvest0This could mean: (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”
48411:5xta9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorAs you do not know the path of the wind0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
48511:5gd8zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochehow a babys bones grow0This could mean: (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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
48611:6ncp6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochework with your hands0Here “hands” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “keep on working” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
48711:6xq2hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletwhether morning or evening, or this or that0These 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
48811:7n46lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymylight is sweet0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
48911:7lv5erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochefor the eyes to see the sun0The “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
49011:8eh9qhappy in all of them0Here the word “them” refers to the years that a person is alive.
49111:8w1unrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe coming days of darkness0Future 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
49211:8y8hlfor they will be many0Here 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”
49311:8yk5jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorEverything to come is vanishing vapor0Here “vanishing vapor” is a metaphor. This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: “No one knows what will happen after he dies” or (2) Alternate translation: “Everything to come is meaningless” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
49411:8fi8kEverything to come0This could mean: (1) “Everything that happens after death” or (2) “Everything that happens in the future”
49511:9kq46rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismTake joy, young man, in your youth, and let your heart be joyful in the days of your youth0These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined to emphasize that the man should be happy while he is young. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
49611:9h2ecrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymylet your heart be joyful0Here the word “heart” represents the emotions. Alternate translation: “be joyful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
49711:9vv5urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyPursue the good desires of your heart0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
49811:9si2arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochewhatever is within the sight of your eyes0Here “eyes” represent the whole person. Alternate translation: “whatever you see that you desire” or “whatever you see to be best” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
49911:9u7ekrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsGod will bring you into judgment for all these things0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **judgment**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
50011:10tu41rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorDrive anger away from your heart0Refusing 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
50111:10y37wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorbecause youth and its strength are vapor0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50212:introqx5w0# Ecclesiastes 12 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nSome 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 12:17 and 12:1314.\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Advice\n\nThis 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.”\n\n### Yahweh\n\nAt 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
50312:1jq6trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomcall to mind0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “remember” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
50412:1r69hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorbefore the days of difficulty come0Future 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50512:1f747rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorbefore the years arrive when you say, “I have no pleasure in them,”0Future 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50612:2n1txrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphordo this before the light of the sun … after the rain0Growing 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50712:3ric4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0# General Information:\n\nThe 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50812:3kzg1strong men are bent over0Alternate translation: “strong men become weak”
50912:3qs1xthe women who grind cease because they are few0Alternate translation: “the women who grind grain stop grinding grain because there are few of them”
51012:4e4kdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe doors are shut in the street0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “people shut the doors that lead to the street” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
51112:4egr6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitwhen men are startled at the voice of a bird0It is implied that the voice of the birds startle the men awake. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “when the voice of a bird startles men awake” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
51212:4hg6prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe singing of girls voices fades away0Here “girls” may be a metaphor for the birds. Alternate translation: “the songs of the birds fade away” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
51312:5jib4rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownwhen the almond tree blossoms0The “almond tree” is a tree that blossoms in the winter with white flowers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
51412:5p5ymrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknownwhen grasshoppers drag themselves along0A 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://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
51512:5zjw9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounswhen natural desires fail0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **desires**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “when people no longer desire what they once did naturally” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
51612:5tea9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismThen man goes to his eternal home0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
51712:5m24nthe mourners go down the streets0This could mean: (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.
51812:6buj9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomCall to mind0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “Remember” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
51912:6tl6urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorbefore the silver cord is cut … or the water wheel is broken at the well0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
52012:6e18grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe silver cord is cut0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone cuts the silver cord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
52112:6n7k8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe golden bowl is crushed0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone crushes the golden bowl” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
52212:6ghm8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe pitcher is shattered0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone shatters the pitcher” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
52312:6h9gcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe water wheel is broken0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone breaks the water wheel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
52412:7hd1src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymydust returns to the earth0Here the word “dust” refers to the human body that has decomposed. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
52512:8rep2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorA mist of vapor … everything is vanishing vapor0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
52612:8tnp3the Teacher0See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:1](../01/01.md).
52712:9i4bzcontemplated and set in order0Alternate translation: “thought much about and arranged” or “thought much about and wrote down”
52812:10a9qtusing vivid … words0The Teacher wanted the words to be pleasurable to the listener. They bring pleasure because they are well written, not because they are comforting.
52912:11k55mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe words of wise people … taught by one shepherd0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
53012:11klc6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileThe words of wise people are like goads0This is a simile. Alternate translation: “Wise people encourage people to act, like a sharp stick encourages an animal to move” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
53112:11f4e5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileLike nails driven deeply are the words of the masters in collections of their proverbs0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
53212:11l699the words of the masters in collections of their proverbs0Alternate translation: “the wise words collected in their proverbs” or “the sayings of the wise”
53312:11as9urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewhich are taught by one shepherd0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which one shepherd teaches” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
53412:12r12dthe making of many books, which has no end0The noun phrase “the making” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “people will never stop making many books”
53512:12w94lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochebrings weariness to the body0Here “body” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “makes the person tired” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
53612:13xk42The end of the matter0Alternate translation: “The final conclusion on the matter”
53712:13nr9nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveafter everything has been heard0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “after you have heard everything” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
53812:14ele3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoralong with every hidden thing0Things 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])