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The fastest runner doesn’t always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn’t always win the battle. The wise sometimes go hungry, and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. And those who are educated don’t always lead successful lives. It is all decided by chance, by being in the right place at the right time. <a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/9.htm">English Standard Version</a> Again I saw that under the sun the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to the intelligent, nor favor to those with knowledge, but time and chance happen to them all. <a href="/bsb/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> I saw something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; neither is the bread to the wise, nor the wealth to the intelligent, nor the favor to the skillful. For time and chance happen to all. <a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/9.htm">King James Bible</a> I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all. <a href="/nkjv/ecclesiastes/9.htm">New King James Version</a> I returned and saw under the sun that— The race is not to the swift, Nor the battle to the strong, Nor bread to the wise, Nor riches to men of understanding, Nor favor to men of skill; But time and chance happen to them all. <a href="/nasb_/ecclesiastes/9.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> I again saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift and the battle is not to the warriors, and neither is bread to the wise nor wealth to the discerning, nor favor to the skillful; for time and chance overtake them all. <a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/9.htm">NASB 1995</a> I again saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift and the battle is not to the warriors, and neither is bread to the wise nor wealth to the discerning nor favor to men of ability; for time and chance overtake them all. <a href="/nasb77/ecclesiastes/9.htm">NASB 1977 </a> I again saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift, and the battle is not to the warriors, and neither is bread to the wise, nor wealth to the discerning, nor favor to men of ability; for time and chance overtake them all. <a href="/lsb/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> I again saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift and the battle is not to the mighty, and neither is bread to the wise nor riches to the discerning nor favor to men who know; for time and misfortune overtake them all. <a href="/amp/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Amplified Bible</a> I again saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift and the battle is not to the strong, and neither is bread to the wise nor riches to those of intelligence and understanding nor favor to men of ability; but time and chance overtake them all. <a href="/csb/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Again I saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift, or the battle to the strong, or bread to the wise, or riches to the discerning, or favor to the skillful; rather, time and chance happen to all of them. <a href="/hcsb/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Again I saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift, or the battle to the strong, or bread to the wise, or riches to the discerning, or favor to the skillful; rather, time and chance happen to all of them. <a href="/asv/ecclesiastes/9.htm">American Standard Version</a> I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favor to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all. <a href="/cev/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Here is something else I have learned: The fastest runners and the greatest heroes don't always win races and battles. Wisdom, intelligence, and skill don't always make you healthy, rich, or popular. We each have our own share of misfortune. <a href="/erv/ecclesiastes/9.htm">English Revised Version</a> I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but fame and chance happeneth to them all. <a href="/gwt/ecclesiastes/9.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> I saw something else under the sun. The race isn't [won] by fast runners, or the battle by heroes. Wise people don't necessarily have food. Intelligent people don't necessarily have riches, and skilled people don't necessarily receive special treatment. But time and unpredictable events overtake all of them. <a href="/gnt/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Good News Translation</a> I realized another thing, that in this world fast runners do not always win the races, and the brave do not always win the battles. The wise do not always earn a living, intelligent people do not always get rich, and capable people do not always rise to high positions. Bad luck happens to everyone. <a href="/isv/ecclesiastes/9.htm">International Standard Version</a> I considered and observed on earth the following: The race doesn't go to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor food to the wise, nor wealth to the smart, nor recognition to the skilled. Instead, timing and circumstances meet them all. <a href="/msb/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> I saw something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; neither is the bread to the wise, nor the wealth to the intelligent, nor the favor to the skillful. For time and chance happen to all. <a href="/net/ecclesiastes/9.htm">NET Bible</a> Again, I observed this on the earth: the race is not always won by the swiftest, the battle is not always won by the strongest; prosperity does not always belong to those who are the wisest, wealth does not always belong to those who are the most discerning, nor does success always come to those with the most knowledge--for time and chance may overcome them all. <a href="/nheb/ecclesiastes/9.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favor to men of skill; but time and chance happen to them all. <a href="/wbt/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favor to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all. <a href="/web/ecclesiastes/9.htm">World English Bible</a> I returned and saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favor to men of skill; but time and chance happen to them all. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> I have turned so as to see under the sun, that not to the swift [is] the race, nor to the mighty the battle, nor even to the wise bread, nor even to the intelligent wealth, nor even to the skillful grace, for time and chance happen with them all. <a href="/ylt/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> I have turned so as to see under the sun, that not to the swift is the race, nor to the mighty the battle, nor even to the wise bread, nor even to the intelligent wealth, nor even to the skilful grace, for time and chance happen with them all. <a href="/slt/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> I turned back, and saw under the sun that not to the fleet the race, and the war not to the strong, and also not to the wise, bread; and also not to the understanding ones, riches; and also not to the knowing, favor; for time and chance will light upon all of them.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> I turned me to another thing, and I saw that under the sun, the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to the learned, nor favour to the skilful: but time and chance in all. <a href="/cpdv/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> I turned myself toward another thing, and I saw that under the sun, the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor wealth to the learned, nor grace to the skilful: but there is a time and an end for all these things. <a href="/nabre/ecclesiastes/9.htm">New American Bible</a> Again I saw under the sun that the race is not won by the swift, nor the battle by the valiant, nor a livelihood by the wise, nor riches by the shrewd, nor favor by the experts; for a time of misfortune comes to all alike. <a href="/nrsvce/ecclesiastes/9.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Again I saw that under the sun the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to the intelligent, nor favor to the skillful; but time and chance happen to them all.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> I turned and saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift nor the battle to the strong nor bread to the wise nor riches to the men of understanding nor glory to the learned men; because time and chance happen to them all. <a href="/hpbt/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> I turned and I saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift , neither to a mighty man the battle, neither to the wise bread and not to the learned riches, and not to the intelligent glory, because time and mishap happens to them all<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/ecclesiastes/9.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all. <a href="/sep/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor yet bread to the wise, nor yet wealth to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of knowledge; for time and chance will happen to them all. <a href="/parallel/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8-2fxj-VcEg?start=1752" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Enjoy Your Portion in This Life</a> …10Whatever you find to do with your hands, do it with all your might, for in Sheol, where you are going, there is no work or planning or knowledge or wisdom. 11<a href="/hebrew/7200.htm" title="7200: wə·rā·’ōh (Conj-w:: V-Qal-InfAbs) -- To see. A primitive root; to see, literally or figuratively.">I saw</a> <a href="/hebrew/7725.htm" title="7725: šaḇ·tî (V-Qal-Perf-1cs) -- A primitive root; to turn back transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively; generally to retreat; often adverbial, again.">something else</a> <a href="/hebrew/8478.htm" title="8478: ṯa·ḥaṯ- (Prep) -- Underneath, below, instead of. From the same as Towach; the bottom; only adverbially, below, in lieu of, etc.">under</a> <a href="/hebrew/8121.htm" title="8121: haš·še·meš (Art:: N-cs) -- From an unused root meaning to be brilliant; the sun; by implication, the east; figuratively, a ray, i.e. A notched battlement.">the sun:</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî (Conj) -- That, for, when. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/4793.htm" title="4793: ham·mê·rō·wṣ (Art:: N-ms) -- A running, a race. From ruwts; a run.">The race</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: wə·lō (Conj-w:: Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">is not</a> <a href="/hebrew/7031.htm" title="7031: laq·qal·lîm (Prep-l, Art:: Adj-mp) -- Light, swift, fleet. Contracted from qalal; light; rapid.">to the swift,</a> <a href="/hebrew/4421.htm" title="4421: ham·mil·ḥā·māh (Art:: N-fs) -- A battle, war. From lacham; a battle; generally, war.">nor the battle</a> <a href="/hebrew/1368.htm" title="1368: lag·gib·bō·w·rîm (Prep-l, Art:: Adj-mp) -- Strong, mighty. Or gibbor; intensive from the same as geber; powerful; by implication, warrior, tyrant.">to the strong;</a> <a href="/hebrew/1571.htm" title="1571: wə·ḡam (Conj) -- Also, moreover, yea. "></a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles.">neither is</a> <a href="/hebrew/3899.htm" title="3899: le·ḥem (N-ms) -- Bread, food. From lacham; food, especially bread, or grain.">the bread</a> <a href="/hebrew/2450.htm" title="2450: la·ḥă·ḵā·mîm (Prep-l, Art:: Adj-mp) -- Wise. From chakam; wise.">to the wise,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1571.htm" title="1571: wə·ḡam (Conj) -- Also, moreover, yea. ">nor</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles."></a> <a href="/hebrew/6239.htm" title="6239: ‘ō·šer (N-ms) -- Riches. From ashar; wealth.">the wealth</a> <a href="/hebrew/995.htm" title="995: lan·nə·ḇō·nîm (Prep-l, Art:: V-Nifal-Prtcpl-mp) -- To discern. A primitive root; to separate mentally, i.e.(generally) understand.">to the intelligent,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1571.htm" title="1571: wə·ḡam (Conj) -- Also, moreover, yea. ">nor</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles."></a> <a href="/hebrew/2580.htm" title="2580: ḥên (N-ms) -- Favor, grace. From chanan; graciousness, i.e. Subjective or objective.">the favor</a> <a href="/hebrew/3045.htm" title="3045: lay·yō·ḏə·‘îm (Prep-l, Art:: V-Qal-Prtcpl-mp) -- A primitive root; to know; used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially.">to the skillful.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî- (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">For</a> <a href="/hebrew/6256.htm" title="6256: ‘êṯ (N-cs) -- Time. From ad; time, especially now, when, etc.">time</a> <a href="/hebrew/6294.htm" title="6294: wā·p̄e·ḡa‘ (Conj-w:: N-ms) -- Occurrence, chance. From paga'; impact.">and chance</a> <a href="/hebrew/7136.htm" title="7136: yiq·reh (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- A primitive root; to light upon; causatively, to bring about; specifically, to impose timbers.">happen</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/3605.htm" title="3605: kul·lām (N-msc:: 3mp) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">to all.</a> 12For surely no man knows his time: Like fish caught in a cruel net or birds trapped in a snare, so men are ensnared in an evil time that suddenly falls upon them.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/proverbs/16-9.htm">Proverbs 16:9</a> A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. <a href="/jeremiah/9-23.htm">Jeremiah 9:23-24</a> This is what the LORD says: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the wealthy man in his riches. / But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice and righteousness on the earth—for I delight in these things,” declares the LORD. <a href="/1_corinthians/9-24.htm">1 Corinthians 9:24-27</a> Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. / Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable. / Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air. ... <a href="/romans/9-16.htm">Romans 9:16</a> So then, it does not depend on man’s desire or effort, but on God’s mercy. <a href="/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1-2</a> A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain. / In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for bread to eat—for He gives sleep to His beloved. <a href="/matthew/20-16.htm">Matthew 20:16</a> So the last will be first, and the first will be last.” <a href="/james/4-13.htm">James 4:13-15</a> Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business, and make a profit.” / You do not even know what will happen tomorrow! What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. / Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.” <a href="/1_samuel/2-9.htm">1 Samuel 2:9</a> He guards the steps of His faithful ones, but the wicked perish in darkness; for by his own strength shall no man prevail. <a href="/luke/13-30.htm">Luke 13:30</a> And indeed, some who are last will be first, and some who are first will be last.” <a href="/job/21-7.htm">Job 21:7-13</a> Why do the wicked live on, growing old and increasing in power? / Their descendants are established around them, and their offspring before their eyes. / Their homes are safe from fear; no rod of punishment from God is upon them. ... <a href="/proverbs/19-21.htm">Proverbs 19:21</a> Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail. <a href="/2_samuel/1-23.htm">2 Samuel 1:23</a> Saul and Jonathan, beloved and delightful in life, were not divided in death. They were swifter than eagles; they were stronger than lions. <a href="/philippians/2-13.htm">Philippians 2:13</a> For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose. <a href="/isaiah/40-29.htm">Isaiah 40:29-31</a> He gives power to the faint and increases the strength of the weak. / Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall. / But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-26.htm">1 Corinthians 1:26-29</a> Brothers, consider the time of your calling: Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were powerful; not many were of noble birth. / But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. / He chose the lowly and despised things of the world, and the things that are not, to nullify the things that are, ...</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favor to men of skill; but time and chance happens to them all.returned<a href="/ecclesiastes/2-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 2:12</a> And I turned myself to behold wisdom, and madness, and folly: for what can the man do that cometh after the king? even that which hath been already done.<a href="/ecclesiastes/4-1.htm">Ecclesiastes 4:1,4</a> So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter… <a href="/malachi/3-18.htm">Malachi 3:18</a> Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.that the race<a href="/1_samuel/17-50.htm">1 Samuel 17:50</a> So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David.<a href="/2_samuel/2-18.htm">2 Samuel 2:18-23</a> And there were three sons of Zeruiah there, Joab, and Abishai, and Asahel: and Asahel was as light of foot as a wild roe… <a href="/2_samuel/17-14.htm">2 Samuel 17:14,23</a> And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring evil upon Absalom… but<a href="/ecclesiastes/2-14.htm">Ecclesiastes 2:14,15</a> The wise man's eyes are in his head; but the fool walketh in darkness: and I myself perceived also that one event happeneth to them all… <a href="/ecclesiastes/3-14.htm">Ecclesiastes 3:14-17</a> I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him… <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-13.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:13</a> Consider the work of God: for who can make that straight, which he hath made crooked?<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-8.htm">Battle</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-7.htm">Bread</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-18.htm">Chance</a> <a href="/proverbs/31-30.htm">Favor</a> <a href="/proverbs/31-30.htm">Favour</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-14.htm">Happeneth</a> <a href="/psalms/19-5.htm">Race</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/6-2.htm">Riches</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/4-4.htm">Skill</a> <a href="/proverbs/31-17.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-9.htm">Sun</a> <a href="/proverbs/6-18.htm">Swift</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-8.htm">Time</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-7.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-1.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/songs/3-8.htm">Battle</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-19.htm">Bread</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-5.htm">Chance</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-12.htm">Favor</a> <a href="/songs/8-10.htm">Favour</a> <a href="/psalms/91-10.htm">Happeneth</a> <a href="/nahum/2-4.htm">Race</a> <a href="/songs/8-7.htm">Riches</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-10.htm">Skill</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-3.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-13.htm">Sun</a> <a href="/isaiah/8-1.htm">Swift</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-12.htm">Time</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-2.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-13.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Ecclesiastes 9</div>1. <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-1.htm">like things happen to good and bad</a> 4. <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-4.htm">there is a necessity of death unto men</a> 7. <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-7.htm">Comfort is all their portion in this life</a> 11. <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">God's providence rules over all</a> 13. <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-13.htm">wisdom is better than strength</a> </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>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <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> </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/9.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/9.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>I saw something else under the sun: This phrase introduces an observation made by the Teacher, traditionally understood to be Solomon. "Under the sun" is a recurring phrase in Ecclesiastes, emphasizing the earthly, temporal perspective of human life. It suggests a viewpoint limited to the material world, often highlighting the futility and unpredictability of life without divine insight.The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; This reflects the unpredictability of life, where expected outcomes based on human ability or strength do not always occur. In the ancient Near East, athletic competitions and battles were common, and success was often attributed to speed and strength. However, this observation challenges the assumption that human effort alone guarantees success. This theme is echoed in <a href="/1_samuel/17.htm">1 Samuel 17</a>, where David, not the strongest or most experienced, defeats Goliath.Neither is the bread to the wise, nor the wealth to the intelligent, nor the favor to the skillful: Here, the Teacher notes that wisdom, intelligence, and skill do not always lead to material provision, wealth, or favor. This challenges the belief that human attributes and efforts are directly correlated with success. In biblical history, Joseph's rise to power in Egypt (Genesis 41) illustrates that divine providence, rather than mere human skill, often determines outcomes.For time and chance happen to all: This phrase underscores the role of divine sovereignty and the limitations of human control. "Time and chance" suggest that life is subject to factors beyond human prediction or control, aligning with the biblical theme that God's purposes prevail over human plans (<a href="/proverbs/19-21.htm">Proverbs 19:21</a>). This perspective encourages reliance on God's wisdom and timing, rather than solely on human effort or understanding.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/s/solomon.htm">Solomon</a> - Traditionally considered the author of Ecclesiastes, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom, wealth, and writings. 2. <a href="/topical/u/under_the_sun.htm">Under the Sun</a> - A phrase used throughout Ecclesiastes to describe life on earth from a human perspective, often highlighting the futility and unpredictability of worldly pursuits. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_swift,_the_strong,_the_wise,_the_discerning,_the_skillful.htm">The Swift, the Strong, the Wise, the Discerning, the Skillful</a> - These represent human attributes and efforts that are often associated with success but are shown to be insufficient in guaranteeing outcomes. 4. <a href="/topical/t/time_and_chance.htm">Time and Chance</a> - These elements are depicted as unpredictable forces that affect everyone, regardless of their abilities or efforts. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_race,_the_battle,_bread,_wealth,_favor.htm">The Race, the Battle, Bread, Wealth, Favor</a> - Metaphors for various aspects of life where human effort is typically expected to yield results.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_limitations_of_human_effort.htm">The Limitations of Human Effort</a> While human effort and skill are valuable, they do not guarantee success. Recognize the role of God's sovereignty and the unpredictability of life. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_divine_providence.htm">The Role of Divine Providence</a> Understand that God is in control, and His plans may differ from our expectations. Trust in His wisdom and timing. <a href="/topical/e/embrace_humility_and_dependence_on_god.htm">Embrace Humility and Dependence on God</a> Acknowledge that our abilities are gifts from God and should be used in reliance on Him, not as a means of self-sufficiency. <a href="/topical/l/live_with_an_eternal_perspective.htm">Live with an Eternal Perspective</a> Focus on eternal values rather than temporary successes. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. <a href="/topical/r/responding_to_life's_uncertainties.htm">Responding to Life's Uncertainties</a> Develop a heart of gratitude and contentment, knowing that God works all things for the good of those who love Him.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ecclesiastes_9.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ecclesiastes 9</a> <a href="/q/does_eccl._9_11_challenge_god's_control.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 says events happen by “time and chance,” so does that undermine the idea of God’s sovereign control? </a> <a href="/q/does_god_offer_second_chances.htm">Does God offer second chances?</a> <a href="/q/what's_the_bible's_view_on_luck.htm">What is the Bible's perspective on luck?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'living_dog_over_dead_lion'_mean.htm">What does "Living dog better than dead lion" mean?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>-11<a href="/romans/9-16.htm" title="So then it is not of him that wills, nor of him that runs, but of God that shows mercy.">Romans 9:16</a>.Chance.--Elsewhere only in <a href="/1_kings/5-4.htm" title="But now the LORD my God has given me rest on every side, so that there is neither adversary nor evil result.">1Kings 5:4</a>.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ecclesiastes/9.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 11, 12. - Section 8. It is impossible to calculate upon the issues and duration of life. Verse 11. - He reverts to the sentiment of ver. 1, that we cannot calculate on the issues of life. Work as we may and must and ought, the results are uncertain and beyond our control. This he shows by his own personal experience. I returned, and saw under the sun. The expression here does not indicate a new departure, but merely a repetition and confirmation of a previous thought - the dependence and conditionality of man. It implies, too, a correction of a possible misunderstanding of the injunction to labor, as if one's own efforts were sure to secure success. The race is not to the swift. One is reminded of the fable of the hare and tortoise; but Koheleth's meaning is different. In the instances given he intimates that, though a man is well equipped for his work and uses all possible exertions, he may incur failure. So one may be a fleet runner, and yet, owing to some untoward accident or disturbing circumstance, not come in first. Thus Ahimaaz brought to David tidings of Absalom's defeat before Cushi, who had had the start of him (<a href="/2_samuel/18-27.htm">2 Samuel 18:27, 31</a>). There is no occasion to invent an allusion to the foot-race in the formal Greek games. The battle to the strong. Victory does not always accrue to mighty men, heroes. As David, himself an instance of the truth of the maxim, says (<a href="/1_samuel/17-47.htm">1 Samuel 17:47</a>), "The Lord saveth not with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord's" (comp. <a href="/2_chronicles/20-15.htm">2 Chronicles 20:15</a>; <a href="/psalms/33-16.htm">Psalm 33:16</a>). Neither yet bread to the wise. Wisdom will not ensure competency. To do this requires other endowments. Many a man of cultivated intellect and of high mental power is left to starve. Riches to men of understanding. Aristophanes accounts for the unequal distribution of wealth thus ('Plutus,' 88), the god himself speaking- "I threatened, when a boy, On none but just and wise and orderly My favors to bestow; so Zeus in jealousy Hath made me blind, that I may none of these Distinguish." Nor yet favor to men of skill. "Skill" here does not mean dexterity in handicrafts or arts, but knowledge generally; and the gnome says that reputation and influence do not necessarily accompany the possession of knowledge and learning; knowledge is not a certain or indispensable means to favor. Says the Greek gnomist - Τύχης τὰ θνητῶν πράγματ οὐκ εὐβουλίας. "Not prudence rules, but fortune, men's affairs." That time and chance happeneth to them all. We have had the word eth, "time," all through <a href="/ecclesiastes/3.htm">Ecclesiastes 3</a>. and elsewhere; but פֶגַע, rendered "chance," is uncommon, being found only in <a href="/1_kings/5-4.htm">1 Kings 5:4</a> (18, Hebrew). Everything has its proper season appointed by God, and man is powerless to control these arrangements. Our English word "chance" conveys an erroneous impression. What is meant is rather "incident," such as a calamity, disappointment, unforeseen occurrence. All human purposes are liable to be changed or controlled by circumstances beyond man's power, and incapable of explanation. A hand higher than man's disposes events, and success is conditioned by superior laws which work unexpected results. <a href="/commentaries/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>I saw וְרָאֹ֣ה (wə·rā·’ōh) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Infinitive absolute <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7200.htm">Strong's 7200: </a> To see something else שַׁ֜בְתִּי (šaḇ·tî) Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7725.htm">Strong's 7725: </a> To turn back, in, to retreat, again under תַֽחַת־ (ṯa·ḥaṯ-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8478.htm">Strong's 8478: </a> The bottom, below, in lieu of the sun: הַשֶּׁ֗מֶשׁ (haš·še·meš) Article | Noun - common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8121.htm">Strong's 8121: </a> The sun, the east, a ray, a notched battlement The race הַמֵּר֜וֹץ (ham·mê·rō·wṣ) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4793.htm">Strong's 4793: </a> A running, a race is not לֹא֩ (lō) Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no to the swift, לַקַּלִּ֨ים (laq·qal·lîm) Preposition-l, Article | Adjective - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7031.htm">Strong's 7031: </a> Light, swift, fleet nor the battle הַמִּלְחָמָ֗ה (ham·mil·ḥā·māh) Article | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4421.htm">Strong's 4421: </a> A battle, war to the strong; לַגִּבּוֹרִ֣ים (lag·gib·bō·w·rîm) Preposition-l, Article | Adjective - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1368.htm">Strong's 1368: </a> Powerful, warrior, tyrant neither [is] לֹ֣א (lō) Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no the bread לֶ֙חֶם֙ (le·ḥem) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3899.htm">Strong's 3899: </a> Food, bread, grain to the wise, לַחֲכָמִ֥ים (la·ḥă·ḵā·mîm) Preposition-l, Article | Adjective - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2450.htm">Strong's 2450: </a> Wise nor וְגַ֨ם (wə·ḡam) Conjunctive waw | Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1571.htm">Strong's 1571: </a> Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and the wealth עֹ֔שֶׁר (‘ō·šer) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6239.htm">Strong's 6239: </a> Wealth to the intelligent, לַנְּבֹנִים֙ (lan·nə·ḇō·nîm) Preposition-l, Article | Verb - Nifal - Participle - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_995.htm">Strong's 995: </a> To separate mentally, understand nor וְגַ֛ם (wə·ḡam) Conjunctive waw | Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1571.htm">Strong's 1571: </a> Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and the favor חֵ֑ן (ḥên) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2580.htm">Strong's 2580: </a> Graciousness, subjective, objective to the skillful; לַיֹּדְעִ֖ים (lay·yō·ḏə·‘îm) Preposition-l, Article | Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3045.htm">Strong's 3045: </a> To know rather, כִּי־ (kî-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> A relative conjunction time עֵ֥ת (‘êṯ) Noun - common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6256.htm">Strong's 6256: </a> Time, now, when and chance וָפֶ֖גַע (wā·p̄e·ḡa‘) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6294.htm">Strong's 6294: </a> Occurrence, chance happen יִקְרֶ֥ה (yiq·reh) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7136.htm">Strong's 7136: </a> To light upon, to bring about, to impose timbers to all. כֻּלָּֽם׃ (kul·lām) Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> The whole, all, any, every <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">OT Poetry: Ecclesiastes 9:11 I returned and saw under the sun (Ecclesiast. Ec Ecc Eccles.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/ecclesiastes/9-10.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 9:10"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 9:10" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/ecclesiastes/9-12.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 9:12"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 9:12" /></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>