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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Ecclesiastes 12:13 When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/6/21_Ecc_12_13.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Ecclesiastes 12:13 - The Fear of God is Utmost" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/ecclesiastes/">Ecclesiastes</a> > <a href="/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Chapter 12</a> > Verse 13</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad13.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm" title="Ecclesiastes 12:12">◄</a> Ecclesiastes 12:13 <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-14.htm" title="Ecclesiastes 12:14">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/ecclesiastes/12.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this <i>is</i> the whole <i>duty</i> of man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />The conclusion, when everything has been heard, <i>is:</i> fear God and keep His commandments, because this <i>applies to</i> every person.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/ecclesiastes/12.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />The conclusion, when all has been heard, <i>is:</i> fear God and keep His commandments, because this <i>applies to</i> every person.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />The end of the matter, all <i>that</i> has been heard: fear God and keep His commandments, because this is <i>the end of the matter for</i> all mankind.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />When all has been heard, the end of the matter is: fear God [worship Him with awe-filled reverence, knowing that He is almighty God] and keep His commandments, for this applies to every person.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: fear God and keep his commands, because this is for all humanity.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is: fear God and keep His commands, because this is for all humanity.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />This is the end of the matter; all hath been heard: Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Everything you were taught can be put into a few words: Respect and obey God! This is what life is all about. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />This is the end of the matter; all hath been heard: fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />After having heard it all, this is the conclusion: Fear God, and keep his commands, because this applies to everyone.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />After all this, there is only one thing to say: Have reverence for God, and obey his commands, because this is all that we were created for. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Let the conclusion of all of these thoughts be heard: Fear God and obey his commandments, for this is what it means to be human.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/ecclesiastes/12.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Having heard everything, I have reached this conclusion: Fear God and keep his commandments, because this is the whole duty of man. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />This is the end of the matter. All has been heard. Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/ecclesiastes/12.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />This is the end of the matter. All has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />The end of the whole matter let us hear: “Fear God, and keep His commands, for this [is] the whole of man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> The end of the whole matter let us hear: -- 'Fear God, and keep His commands, for this is the whole of man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />We will hear the end of all the word: Fear thou God, and watch his commands: for this is all man.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Let us all hear together the conclusion of the discourse. Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is all man: <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Let us all listen together to the end of the discourse. Fear God, and observe his commandments. This is everything for man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />The last word, when all is heard: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this concerns all humankind;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God, and keep his commandments; for that is the whole duty of everyone.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear the LORD and keep his commandments; this is given by one Master to every man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />The end of the matter in its sum: listen to everything and be in awe before LORD JEHOVAH, and keep his commandments, for this is of One Craftsman which is given to every person<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/ecclesiastes/12.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />The end of the matter, all having been heard: fear God, and keep His commandments; for this is the whole man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />Hear the end of the matter, the sun: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole man.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8-2fxj-VcEg?start=2248" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">The Fear of God is Utmost</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">12</span>And by these, my son, be further warned: There is no end to the making of many books, and much study wearies the body. <span class="reftext">13</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: hak·kōl (Art:: N-ms) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">When all</a> <a href="/hebrew/8085.htm" title="8085: niš·mā‘ (V-Nifal-Perf-3ms) -- To hear. A primitive root; to hear intelligently.">has been heard,</a> <a href="/hebrew/853.htm" title="853: ’eṯ- (DirObjM) -- Apparent contracted from 'owth in the demonstrative sense of entity; properly, self."></a> <a href="/hebrew/5490.htm" title="5490: sō·wp̄ (N-msc) -- An end. From cuwph; a termination.">the conclusion</a> <a href="/hebrew/1697.htm" title="1697: dā·ḇār (N-ms) -- Speech, word. From dabar; a word; by implication, a matter or thing; adverbially, a cause.">of the matter is this:</a> <a href="/hebrew/3372.htm" title="3372: yə·rā (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten. A primitive root; to fear; morally, to revere; caus. To frighten.">Fear</a> <a href="/hebrew/430.htm" title="430: hā·’ĕ·lō·hîm (Art:: N-mp) -- Plural of 'elowahh; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used of the supreme God">God</a> <a href="/hebrew/853.htm" title="853: wə·’eṯ- (Conj-w:: DirObjM) -- Apparent contracted from 'owth in the demonstrative sense of entity; properly, self.">and</a> <a href="/hebrew/8104.htm" title="8104: šə·mō·wr (V-Qal-Imp-ms) -- To keep, watch, preserve. A primitive root; properly, to hedge about, i.e. Guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.">keep</a> <a href="/hebrew/4687.htm" title="4687: miṣ·wō·ṯāw (N-fpc:: 3ms) -- Commandment. From tsavah; a command, whether human or divine.">His commandments,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">because</a> <a href="/hebrew/2088.htm" title="2088: zeh (Pro-ms) -- This, here. A primitive word; the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that.">this is</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: kāl- (N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">the whole duty</a> <a href="/hebrew/120.htm" title="120: hā·’ā·ḏām (Art:: N-ms) -- Man, mankind. From 'adam; ruddy i.e. A human being.">of man.</a> </span><span class="reftext">14</span>For God will bring every deed into judgment, along with every hidden thing, whether good or evil.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/1-7.htm">Proverbs 1:7</a></span><br />The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/10-12.htm">Deuteronomy 10:12-13</a></span><br />And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, / and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD that I am giving you this day for your own good?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/22-37.htm">Matthew 22:37-40</a></span><br />Jesus declared, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ / This is the first and greatest commandment. / And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/111-10.htm">Psalm 111:10</a></span><br />The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts gain rich understanding. His praise endures forever!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/micah/6-8.htm">Micah 6:8</a></span><br />He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_john/5-3.htm">1 John 5:3</a></span><br />For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/3-7.htm">Proverbs 3:7</a></span><br />Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/14-15.htm">John 14:15</a></span><br />If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/119-1.htm">Psalm 119:1-2</a></span><br />Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the Law of the LORD. / Blessed are those who keep His testimonies and seek Him with all their heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/13-8.htm">Romans 13:8-10</a></span><br />Be indebted to no one, except to one another in love. For he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. / The commandments “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,” and any other commandments, are summed up in this one decree: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” / Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_samuel/15-22.htm">1 Samuel 15:22</a></span><br />But Samuel declared: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obedience to His voice? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-22.htm">James 1:22-25</a></span><br />Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves. / For anyone who hears the word but does not carry it out is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror, / and after observing himself goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/8-13.htm">Isaiah 8:13</a></span><br />The LORD of Hosts is the One you shall regard as holy. Only He should be feared; only He should be dreaded.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/7-19.htm">1 Corinthians 7:19</a></span><br />Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. Keeping God’s commandments is what counts.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/34-11.htm">Psalm 34:11-14</a></span><br />Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. / Who is the man who delights in life, who desires to see good days? / Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech. ...</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.</p><p class="hdg">fear</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/5-7.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:7</a></b></br> For in the multitude of dreams and many words <i>there are</i> also <i>divers</i> vanities: but fear thou God.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:12</a></b></br> Though a sinner do evil an hundred times, and his <i>days</i> be prolonged, yet surely I know that it shall be well with them that fear God, which fear before him:</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/22-12.htm">Genesis 22:12</a></b></br> And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only <i>son</i> from me.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/numbers/19-14.htm">Applies</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-8.htm">Commandments</a> <a href="/proverbs/10-8.htm">Commands</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/31-30.htm">Conclusion</a> <a href="/job/33-23.htm">Duty</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">End</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-3.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-21.htm">Hear</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-17.htm">Heard</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/3-11.htm">Last</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-20.htm">Matter</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-10.htm">Right</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-8.htm">Whole</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-11.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/exodus/12-49.htm">Applies</a> <a href="/isaiah/48-18.htm">Commandments</a> <a href="/jeremiah/7-22.htm">Commands</a> <a href="/romans/6-1.htm">Conclusion</a> <a href="/ezekiel/40-45.htm">Duty</a> <a href="/isaiah/1-16.htm">End</a> <a href="/songs/3-8.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/songs/2-14.htm">Hear</a> <a href="/songs/2-12.htm">Heard</a> <a href="/isaiah/7-9.htm">Last</a> <a href="/isaiah/7-13.htm">Matter</a> <a href="/songs/1-4.htm">Right</a> <a href="/isaiah/1-5.htm">Whole</a> <a href="/isaiah/1-2.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Ecclesiastes 12</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-1.htm">the Creator is to be remembered in due time</a></span><br><span class="reftext">8. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-8.htm">The preacher's care to edify</a></span><br><span class="reftext">13. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">the fear of God is the chief antidote for vanity</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/ecclesiastes/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/ecclesiastes/12.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>When all has been heard</b><br>This phrase suggests a comprehensive examination of life's experiences and wisdom. It reflects the culmination of the Preacher's exploration throughout Ecclesiastes, where he investigates the meaning of life through various pursuits. The phrase implies that after considering all human endeavors and philosophies, a final, authoritative conclusion is reached. This echoes the biblical theme of seeking wisdom and understanding, as seen in <a href="/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7</a>, where wisdom is the principal thing to acquire.<p><b>the conclusion of the matter is this</b><br>The term "conclusion" indicates a final, decisive statement. In the context of Ecclesiastes, it serves as the ultimate answer to the questions of life's purpose and meaning. This conclusion is not just a summary but a definitive resolution to the existential inquiries posed throughout the book. It aligns with the biblical principle that God's wisdom provides clarity and direction, as seen in <a href="/james/1-5.htm">James 1:5</a>, where believers are encouraged to seek wisdom from God.<p><b>Fear God</b><br>"Fear" in this context refers to a profound reverence and awe for God, recognizing His sovereignty and holiness. This fear is foundational to a proper relationship with God, as it acknowledges His authority and our accountability to Him. The concept of fearing God is a recurring theme in Scripture, such as in <a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a>, where the fear of the Lord is described as the beginning of wisdom. It underscores the importance of humility and submission to God's will.<p><b>and keep His commandments</b><br>This phrase emphasizes obedience to God's laws as a response to fearing Him. Keeping God's commandments is a tangible expression of faith and reverence, reflecting a life aligned with His will. This mirrors the covenant relationship between God and His people, as seen in <a href="/deuteronomy/6.htm">Deuteronomy 6:1-2</a>, where obedience to God's commandments is linked to blessings and life. It highlights the biblical principle that true faith is demonstrated through actions.<p><b>because this is the whole duty of man</b><br>The term "whole duty" suggests that fearing God and keeping His commandments encompass the entirety of human responsibility. It implies that life's ultimate purpose is found in a relationship with God, characterized by reverence and obedience. This aligns with the creation narrative in Genesis, where humanity is created to live in fellowship with God and steward His creation. It also resonates with Jesus' teaching in <a href="/matthew/22-37.htm">Matthew 22:37-40</a>, where loving God and others is described as the greatest commandment, encapsulating the essence of the law and the prophets.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a></b><br>Traditionally considered the author of Ecclesiastes, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. Ecclesiastes is often seen as a reflection on the meaning of life and the pursuit of fulfillment.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/i/israel.htm">Israel</a></b><br>The nation to whom Solomon originally addressed his writings. The teachings in Ecclesiastes are rooted in the cultural and religious context of ancient Israel.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_preacher.htm">The Preacher (Qoheleth)</a></b><br>The voice in Ecclesiastes, often identified with Solomon, who explores the purpose and meaning of life.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_essence_of_duty.htm">The Essence of Duty</a></b><br><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13</a> states, "When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man." This encapsulates the essence of human responsibility before God.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/f/fear_of_god.htm">Fear of God</a></b><br>The Hebrew word for "fear" (yirah) implies reverence and awe. It is not about being afraid but about recognizing God's majesty and authority in our lives.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/o/obedience_to_commandments.htm">Obedience to Commandments</a></b><br>Keeping God's commandments is a practical expression of our reverence for Him. It involves aligning our lives with His will as revealed in Scripture.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/l/life's_ultimate_purpose.htm">Life's Ultimate Purpose</a></b><br>The pursuit of wisdom, pleasure, and achievement is ultimately meaningless without a relationship with God. Our purpose is found in living according to His design.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/eternal_perspective.htm">Eternal Perspective</a></b><br>Understanding our duty to fear God and keep His commandments gives us an eternal perspective, guiding our decisions and priorities in life.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ecclesiastes_12.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ecclesiastes 12</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_to_reconcile_'fear_god'_with_grace.htm">In Ecclesiastes 12:13–14, how do we reconcile the command to “fear God” with other biblical passages that emphasize grace rather than strict obedience?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_are_judaism's_five_scrolls.htm">What are the Five Festival Scrolls in Judaism?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_do_i_serve_god.htm">How do I serve God?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/anything_truly_new_under_the_sun.htm">Is there truly anything new under the sun?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(13) <span class= "bld">Whole duty of man.</span>--Rather, <span class= "ital">the duty of every man. </span>The sacred writer practically anticipates the teaching of <a href="/romans/3-29.htm" title="Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:">Romans 3:29</a>.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 13.</span> - The teaching of the whole book is now gathered up in two weighty sentences. <span class="cmt_word">Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter</span>. The Revised Version gives, <span class="accented">This is the end of the matter</span>; <span class="accented">all hath been heard</span>. The Septuagint has, <span class="greek">Τέλος λόγου τὸ</span> <span class="greek">πᾶν ἄκουε</span>, "The end of the matter, the sum, hear thou;" Vulgate, <span class="accented">Finem loquendi pariter omnes audiamus.</span> Another rendering is suggested, "The conclusion of the matter is this, that [God] taketh knowledge of all things;" literally, "everything is heard." Perhaps the passage is best translated, <span class="accented">The end of the matter, when all is heard, is this</span>. The first word of this verse, <span class="accented">soph</span>, "end," is printed in the Hebrew text in large characters, in order to draw attention to the importance of what is coming. And its significance is rightly estimated. These two verses guard against very possible misconception, and give the author's real and mature conclusion. When this is received, all that need be said has been uttered. <span class="cmt_word">Fear God</span> (<span class="accented">ha-Elohim</span>)<span class="accented">, <span class="cmt_word"></span>and keep his commandments.</span> This injunction is the practical result of the whole discussion. Amid the difficulties of the moral government of the world, amid the complications of society, varying and opposing interests and claims, one duty remained plain and unchanging - the duty of piety and obedience. <span class="cmt_word">For this is the whole duty of man</span>. The Hebrew is literally, "This is every man," which is explained to mean, "This is every man's duty." Septuagint, <span class="greek">Ὅτι τοῦτο πᾶς ὁ ἄνθρωπος</span>: Vulgate, <span class="accented">Hoc est enim omnis homo</span>. For this man was made and placed in the world; this is his real object, the chief good which he has to seek, and which alone will secure contentment and happiness. The obligation is put in the most general terms as applicable to the whole human family; for God is not the God of the Jews only, but of Gentiles also (<a href="/romans/3-29.htm">Romans 3:29</a>). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div><span class="word">When all</span><br /><span class="heb">הַכֹּ֣ל</span> <span class="translit">(hak·kōl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> </span><span class="str2">The whole, all, any, every</span><br /><br /><span class="word">has been heard,</span><br /><span class="heb">נִשְׁמָ֑ע</span> <span class="translit">(niš·mā‘)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Nifal - Perfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8085.htm">Strong's 8085: </a> </span><span class="str2">To hear intelligently</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the conclusion</span><br /><span class="heb">ס֥וֹף</span> <span class="translit">(sō·wp̄)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5490.htm">Strong's 5490: </a> </span><span class="str2">A termination</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of the matter [is this]:</span><br /><span class="heb">דָּבָ֖ר</span> <span class="translit">(dā·ḇār)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1697.htm">Strong's 1697: </a> </span><span class="str2">A word, a matter, thing, a cause</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Fear</span><br /><span class="heb">יְרָא֙</span> <span class="translit">(yə·rā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3372.htm">Strong's 3372: </a> </span><span class="str2">To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten</span><br /><br /><span class="word">God</span><br /><span class="heb">הָאֱלֹהִ֤ים</span> <span class="translit">(hā·’ĕ·lō·hîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_430.htm">Strong's 430: </a> </span><span class="str2">gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and</span><br /><span class="heb">וְאֶת־</span> <span class="translit">(wə·’eṯ-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Direct object marker<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_853.htm">Strong's 853: </a> </span><span class="str2">Untranslatable mark of the accusative case</span><br /><br /><span class="word">keep</span><br /><span class="heb">שְׁמ֔וֹר</span> <span class="translit">(šə·mō·wr)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperative - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8104.htm">Strong's 8104: </a> </span><span class="str2">To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to</span><br /><br /><span class="word">His commandments,</span><br /><span class="heb">מִצְוֺתָ֣יו</span> <span class="translit">(miṣ·wō·ṯāw)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine plural construct | third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4687.htm">Strong's 4687: </a> </span><span class="str2">Commandment</span><br /><br /><span class="word">because</span><br /><span class="heb">כִּי־</span> <span class="translit">(kî-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">A relative conjunction</span><br /><br /><span class="word">this is</span><br /><span class="heb">זֶ֖ה</span> <span class="translit">(zeh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Pronoun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2088.htm">Strong's 2088: </a> </span><span class="str2">This, that</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the whole</span><br /><span class="heb">כָּל־</span> <span class="translit">(kāl-)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> </span><span class="str2">The whole, all, any, every</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[duty] of man.</span><br /><span class="heb">הָאָדָֽם׃</span> <span class="translit">(hā·’ā·ḏām)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_120.htm">Strong's 120: </a> </span><span class="str2">Ruddy, a human being</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:13 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">OT Poetry: Ecclesiastes 12:13 This is the end of the matter (Ecclesiast. Ec Ecc Eccles.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 12:12"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 12:12" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-14.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 12:14"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 12:14" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>