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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 12:12 And by these, my son, be further warned: There is no end to the making of many books, and much study wearies the body.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/5/21_Ecc_12_12.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Ecclesiastes 12:12 - The Fear of God is Utmost" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="And by these, my son, be further warned: There is no end to the making of many books, and much study wearies the body." /><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/12-12.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/12-12.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 12</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="/ad12.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/12-11.htm" title="Ecclesiastes 12:11">◄</a> Ecclesiastes 12:12 <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm" title="Ecclesiastes 12:13">►</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 />Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them. Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />But, my child, let me give you some further advice: Be careful, for writing books is endless, and much study wears you out.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />My son, beware of anything beyond these. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />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="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books <i>there is</i> no end; and much study <i>is</i> a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />And further, my son, be admonished by these. Of making many books <i>there is</i> no end, and much study <i>is</i> wearisome to the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />But beyond this, my son, be warned: the writing of many books is endless, and excessive study is wearying to the body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />But beyond this, my son, be warned: the writing of many books is endless, and excessive devotion to books is wearying to the body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/ecclesiastes/12.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />But beyond this, my son, be warned: the writing of many books is endless, and excessive devotion <i>to books</i> is wearying to the body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />But in addition to this, my son, be warned: the making of many books is endless, and much devotion <i>to books</i> is wearying to the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />But beyond this my son, [about going further than the words given by one Shepherd], be warned: the writing of many books is endless [so do not believe everything you read], and excessive study <i>and</i> devotion <i>to books</i> is wearying to the body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />But beyond these, my son, be warned: there is no end to the making of many books, and much study wearies the body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />But beyond these, my son, be warned: there is no end to the making of many books, and much study wearies the body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />And furthermore, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />My child, I warn you to stay away from any teachings except these. There is no end to books, and too much study will wear you out. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />And furthermore, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Be warned, my children, against anything more than these. People never stop writing books. Too much studying will wear out your body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />My child, there is something else to watch out for. There is no end to the writing of books, and too much study will wear you out. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />So learn from them, my son. There is no end to the crafting of many books, and too much study wearies the body.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />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="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/ecclesiastes/12.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them. There is no end to the making of many books, and much study is exhausting to the body. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Furthermore, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/ecclesiastes/12.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Furthermore, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />And further, from these, my son, be warned; the making of many scrolls has no end, and much study [is] a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> And further, from these, my son, be warned; the making of many books hath no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />And besides, from these, my son, beware: of making many books, no end; and much study wearies the flesh.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />More than these, my son, require not. Of making many books there is no end: and much study is an affliction of the flesh. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />You should require no more than this, my son. For there is no end to the making of many books. And excessive study is an affliction to the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />As to more than these, my son, beware. Of the making of many books there is no end, and in much study there is weariness for the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/ecclesiastes/12.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Of anything beyond these, my child, beware. Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />Furthermore, my son, take heed; of writing many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />And especially pay attention to them, my son. To the writing many scrolls there is no end, and much speaking is weariness of the flesh<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/ecclesiastes/12.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />And furthermore, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />And moreover, my son, guard thyself by means of them: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/ecclesiastes/12-12.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=2237" 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">11</span>The words of the wise are like goads, and the anthologies of the masters are like firmly embedded nails driven by a single Shepherd. <span class="reftext">12</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/mê·hêm·māh (Prep-m:: Pro-3mp) -- ">And by these,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1121.htm" title="1121: bə·nî (N-msc:: 1cs) -- Son. From banah; a son, in the widest sense (like 'ab, 'ach, etc.).">my son,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3148.htm" title="3148: wə·yō·ṯêr (Conj-w:: N-ms) -- Active participle of yathar; properly, redundant; hence, over and above, as adjective, noun, adverb or conjunction.">be further</a> <a href="/hebrew/2094.htm" title="2094: hiz·zā·hêr (V-Nifal-Imp-ms) -- To gleam, to enlighten. A primitive root; to gleam; figuratively, to enlighten.">warned:</a> <a href="/hebrew/369.htm" title="369: ’ên (Adv) -- As if from a primitive root meaning to be nothing or not exist; a non-entity; generally used as a negative particle.">There is no</a> <a href="/hebrew/7093.htm" title="7093: qêṣ (N-ms) -- End. Contracted from qatsats; an extremity; adverbially after.">end</a> <a href="/hebrew/6213.htm" title="6213: ‘ă·śō·wṯ (V-Qal-Inf) -- To do, make. A primitive root; to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application.">to the making</a> <a href="/hebrew/7235.htm" title="7235: har·bêh (V-Hifil-InfAbs) -- To be or become much, many or great. A primitive root; to increase.">of many</a> <a href="/hebrew/5612.htm" title="5612: sə·p̄ā·rîm (N-mp) -- A missive, document, writing, book. Or ciphrah; from caphar; properly, writing; by implication, a book.">books,</a> <a href="/hebrew/7235.htm" title="7235: har·bêh (V-Hifil-InfAbs) -- To be or become much, many or great. A primitive root; to increase.">and much</a> <a href="/hebrew/3854.htm" title="3854: wə·la·haḡ (Conj-w:: N-ms) -- Study, devotion (to books). From an unused root meaning to be eager; intense mental application.">study</a> <a href="/hebrew/3024.htm" title="3024: yə·ḡi·‘aṯ (N-fsc) -- Wearying. Feminine of yagiya'; fatigue.">wearies</a> <a href="/hebrew/1320.htm" title="1320: bā·śār (N-ms) -- Flesh. From basar; flesh; by extension, body, person; also The pudenda of a man.">the body.</a> </span><span class="reftext">13</span>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.…<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="/2_timothy/3-7.htm">2 Timothy 3:7</a></span><br />who are always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/daniel/12-4.htm">Daniel 12:4</a></span><br />But you, Daniel, shut up these words and seal the book until the time of the end. Many will roam to and fro, and knowledge will increase.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1</a></span><br />Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/12-25.htm">Proverbs 12:25</a></span><br />Anxiety weighs down the heart of a man, but a good word cheers it up.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/1-20.htm">1 Corinthians 1:20</a></span><br />Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/25-27.htm">Proverbs 25:27</a></span><br />It is not good to eat too much honey or to search out one’s own glory.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_timothy/6-20.htm">1 Timothy 6:20</a></span><br />O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid irreverent, empty chatter and the opposing arguments of so-called “knowledge,”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/15-14.htm">Proverbs 15:14</a></span><br />A discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8</a></span><br />See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, which are based on human tradition and the spiritual forces of the world rather than on Christ.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7</a></span><br />Wisdom is supreme; so acquire wisdom. And whatever you may acquire, gain understanding.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/3-1.htm">James 3:1</a></span><br />Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/29-14.htm">Isaiah 29:14</a></span><br />Therefore I will again confound these people with wonder upon wonder. The wisdom of the wise will vanish, and the intelligence of the intelligent will be hidden.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/17-21.htm">Acts 17:21</a></span><br />Now all the Athenians and foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing more than hearing and articulating new ideas.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/8-9.htm">Jeremiah 8:9</a></span><br />The wise will be put to shame; they will be dismayed and trapped. Since they have rejected the word of the LORD, what wisdom do they really have?</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.</p><p class="hdg">by these</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/luke/16-29.htm">Luke 16:29-31</a></b></br> Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/john/5-39.htm">John 5:39</a></b></br> Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/john/20-31.htm">John 20:31</a></b></br> But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.</p><p class="hdg">study</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/1-18.htm">Ecclesiastes 1:18</a></b></br> For in much wisdom <i>is</i> much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-9.htm">Addition</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/4-13.htm">Admonished</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-25.htm">Beware</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/11-10.htm">Body</a> <a href="/esther/6-1.htm">Books</a> <a href="/job/15-4.htm">Devotion</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-13.htm">End</a> <a href="/psalms/106-31.htm">Endless</a> <a href="/proverbs/28-8.htm">Excessive</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/11-10.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-9.htm">Further</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-5.htm">Furthermore</a> <a href="/proverbs/16-23.htm">Learning</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-19.htm">Making</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-5.htm">Note</a> <a href="/nehemiah/8-13.htm">Study</a> <a href="/psalms/19-11.htm">Warned</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-15.htm">Wearies</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-15.htm">Weariness</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/1-8.htm">Wearying</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-10.htm">Writing</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/jeremiah/45-3.htm">Addition</a> <a href="/jeremiah/42-19.htm">Admonished</a> <a href="/isaiah/22-17.htm">Beware</a> <a href="/songs/5-14.htm">Body</a> <a href="/isaiah/29-11.htm">Books</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-3.htm">Devotion</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm">End</a> <a href="/nahum/2-9.htm">Endless</a> <a href="/isaiah/16-6.htm">Excessive</a> <a href="/isaiah/1-6.htm">Flesh</a> <a href="/isaiah/8-5.htm">Further</a> <a href="/isaiah/36-10.htm">Furthermore</a> <a href="/ezekiel/19-3.htm">Learning</a> <a href="/isaiah/1-12.htm">Making</a> <a href="/isaiah/30-8.htm">Note</a> <a href="/john/5-39.htm">Study</a> <a href="/isaiah/8-11.htm">Warned</a> <a href="/isaiah/16-12.htm">Wearies</a> <a href="/isaiah/5-27.htm">Weariness</a> <a href="/psalms/77-2.htm">Wearying</a> <a href="/isaiah/8-2.htm">Writing</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>And by these, my son, be further warned:</b><br>This phrase serves as a cautionary note from the Teacher, traditionally understood to be Solomon, to his audience, often interpreted as a younger generation or a specific individual. The use of "my son" is a common biblical expression of mentorship and guidance, seen in Proverbs (<a href="/proverbs/1-8.htm">Proverbs 1:8</a>) and other wisdom literature. It emphasizes the personal and relational aspect of imparting wisdom. The warning here is not just about the content of the books but the potential distraction from divine wisdom. This reflects the biblical theme of prioritizing spiritual understanding over worldly knowledge (<a href="/proverbs/3-5.htm">Proverbs 3:5-6</a>).<p><b>There is no end to the making of many books,</b><br>In the ancient Near East, the production of books was a labor-intensive process, yet even then, the proliferation of writings was notable. This phrase highlights the endless pursuit of human knowledge and the constant production of literature. Historically, this can be connected to the vast libraries of the ancient world, such as the Library of Alexandria. Theologically, it underscores the futility of seeking ultimate truth outside of God's revelation. This aligns with the biblical perspective that true wisdom comes from God (<a href="/james/1-5.htm">James 1:5</a>).<p><b>and much study wearies the body.</b><br>This statement acknowledges the physical and mental toll that excessive study can take. In the context of Ecclesiastes, it reflects the broader theme of the limitations and burdens of human endeavors. The weariness mentioned here can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual exhaustion that comes from seeking fulfillment in human wisdom alone. This is consistent with the biblical teaching that rest and peace are found in God (<a href="/matthew/11-28.htm">Matthew 11:28-30</a>). The phrase serves as a reminder of the need for balance and the importance of prioritizing spiritual nourishment over intellectual pursuits.<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. He reflects on the meaning of life and the pursuit of knowledge.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/i/israel.htm">Israel</a></b><br>The setting for Solomon's writings, Israel was a nation chosen by God, where Solomon reigned as king and built the temple in Jerusalem.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_teacher.htm">The Teacher (Qoheleth)</a></b><br>The voice in Ecclesiastes, often identified with Solomon, who explores life's complexities and the pursuit of wisdom.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_limitations_of_human_wisdom.htm">The Limitations of Human Wisdom</a></b><br>Human wisdom and knowledge have their limits. While learning is valuable, it should not replace or overshadow the pursuit of godly wisdom.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_weariness_of_endless_study.htm">The Weariness of Endless Study</a></b><br>The pursuit of knowledge for its own sake can lead to exhaustion and distraction from what truly matters—our relationship with God.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_discernment.htm">The Importance of Discernment</a></b><br>In a world filled with information, discernment is crucial. We must prioritize what aligns with God's truth and purpose.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/b/balancing_knowledge_and_faith.htm">Balancing Knowledge and Faith</a></b><br>While studying and gaining knowledge is important, it should be balanced with faith and spiritual growth. Our ultimate goal should be to know God more deeply.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_scripture_in_wisdom.htm">The Role of Scripture in Wisdom</a></b><br>Scripture should be our primary source of wisdom and guidance, providing the foundation for all other learning and understanding.<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/does_ecclesiastes_12_12_reflect_its_era.htm">In Ecclesiastes 12:12, what evidence exists that its warning about endless books and study reflects actual historical or cultural conditions of the time? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/who_is_qoheleth_in_ecclesiastes.htm">Who is Qoheleth in the Book of Ecclesiastes?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_title_'god_the_son'_mean.htm">Who is the author of Ecclesiastes?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/could_elimelech's_family's_deaths_be_explained.htm">Could the sudden deaths of Elimelech and his sons in Ruth 1:3-5 be explained by any known historical or cultural cause?</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>(12) <span class= "bld">Study.</span>--The word occurs here only in the Old Testament; but is not a Talmudic word.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ecclesiastes/12.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verses 12-14.</span> - The author warns against profitless study, and gives the final conclusion to which the whole discussion leads. <span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 12.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">And further, by these, my son, be admonished</span>; rather, <span class="accented">and what is more than these, be warned</span>. Besides all that has been said, take this additional and important caution, viz. what follows. The clause, however, has been differently interpreted, as if it said, "Do not attempt to go beyond the words of the sages mentioned above; or, "Be content with my counsels; they will suffice for your instruction." This seems to be the meaning of the Authorized Version. The personal address, "my son," so usual in the Book of Proverbs, is used by Koheleth in this place alone. It does not necessarily imply relationship (as if the pseudo-Solomon was appealing to Rehoboam), but rather the condition of pupil and learner, sitting at the feet of his teacher and friend. <span class="cmt_word">Of malting many books there is no end.</span> This could not be said in the time of the historical Solomon, even if we reckon his own voluminous works (<a href="/1_kings/4-32.htm">1 Kings 4:32, 33</a>); for we know of no other writers of that date, and it is tolerably certain that none existed in Palestine. But we need not suppose that Koheleth is referring to extraneous heathen productions, of which, in our view, there is no evidence that he possessed any special knowledge. Doubtless many thinkers in his time had treated of the problems discussed in his volume in a far different manner from that herein employed, and it seemed good to utter a warning against the unprofitable reading of such productions. Juvenal speaks of the insatiable passion for writing in his day ('Sat.,' 7:51) - <p><span class="foreign">"Tenet insanabile multos<br />Scribendi cacoethes et aegro in corde senestit;"</span> <p>which Dryden renders - <p><span class="accented">"The charms of poetry our souls bewitch;<br />The curse of writing is an endless itch."</span> As in taking food it is not the quantity which a man eats, but what he digests and assimilates, that nourishes him, so in reading, the rule, <span class="accented">Non multa, sed multum</span>, must be observed; the gorging the literary appetite on food wholesome or not impedes the healthy mental process, and produces no intellectual growth or strength. The obvious lesson drawn by spiritual writers is that Christians should make God's Word their chief study, "turning away from the profane babblings and oppositions of the knowledge which is falsely so called" (<a href="/1_timothy/6-20.htm">1 Timothy 6:20</a>). For as St. Augustine says ('De Doctr. Christ.'), "Whereas in Holy Scripture you will find everything which has been profitably said elsewhere, to a far greater extent you will therein find what has been nowhere else enunciated, but which has been taught solely by the marvelous sublimity and the equally marvelous humility of the Word of God." <span class="cmt_word">Much study is a weariness of the flesh.</span> The two clauses in the latter part of the verse are co-ordinate. Thus the Septuagint, <span class="greek">Τοῦ ποιῆσαι βιβλία</span> <span class="greek">πολλὰ οὐκ ἔστι περασμὸς καὶ μελέτη πολλὴ</span> <span class="greek">κόπωσις</span> ("weariness") <span class="greek">σαρκός</span>. The word for "study" (<span class="accented">lahag</span>) is not found elsewhere in the Old Testament, nor in the Talmud, but the above meaning is sustained by its connection with an Arabic word signifying "to be eager for." The Vulgate (like the Septuagint) renders it <span class="accented">meditatio</span>. You may weary your brain, exhaust your strength, by protracted study or meditation on many books, but you will not necessarily thereby gain any insight into the problems of the universe or guidance for daily life. Marcus Aurelius dissuades from much reading: "Would you examine your whole composition?" he says; "pray, then let your library alone; what need you puzzle your thoughts and over-grasp yourself?" Again, "As for books, never be over-eager about them; such a fondness for reading will be apt to perplex your mind, and make you die unpleased" ('Medit.,' 2:2, 3, Collier). So Ben-Sira affirms, "The finding out of parables is a wearisome Labor of the mind" (Ecclus. 13:26). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/ecclesiastes/12-12.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">But beyond</span><br /><span class="heb">וְיֹתֵ֥ר</span> <span class="translit">(wə·yō·ṯêr)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3148.htm">Strong's 3148: </a> </span><span class="str2">Superiority, advantage, excess</span><br /><br /><span class="word">these,</span><br /><span class="heb">מֵהֵ֖מָּה</span> <span class="translit">(mê·hêm·māh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-m | Pronoun - third person masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1992.htm">Strong's 1992: </a> </span><span class="str2">They</span><br /><br /><span class="word">my son,</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּנִ֣י</span> <span class="translit">(bə·nî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1121.htm">Strong's 1121: </a> </span><span class="str2">A son</span><br /><br /><span class="word">be warned:</span><br /><span class="heb">הִזָּהֵ֑ר</span> <span class="translit">(hiz·zā·hêr)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Nifal - Imperative - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2094.htm">Strong's 2094: </a> </span><span class="str2">To gleam, to enlighten</span><br /><br /><span class="word">There is no</span><br /><span class="heb">אֵ֣ין</span> <span class="translit">(’ên)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_369.htm">Strong's 369: </a> </span><span class="str2">A non-entity, a negative particle</span><br /><br /><span class="word">end</span><br /><span class="heb">קֵ֔ץ</span> <span class="translit">(qêṣ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7093.htm">Strong's 7093: </a> </span><span class="str2">An extremity, after</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to the making</span><br /><span class="heb">עֲשׂ֨וֹת</span> <span class="translit">(‘ă·śō·wṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6213.htm">Strong's 6213: </a> </span><span class="str2">To do, make</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of many</span><br /><span class="heb">הַרְבֵּה֙</span> <span class="translit">(har·bêh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Infinitive absolute<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7235.htm">Strong's 7235: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be or become much, many or great</span><br /><br /><span class="word">books,</span><br /><span class="heb">סְפָרִ֤ים</span> <span class="translit">(sə·p̄ā·rîm)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_5612.htm">Strong's 5612: </a> </span><span class="str2">A missive, document, writing, book</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and much</span><br /><span class="heb">הַרְבֵּ֖ה</span> <span class="translit">(har·bêh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Hifil - Infinitive absolute<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7235.htm">Strong's 7235: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be or become much, many or great</span><br /><br /><span class="word">study</span><br /><span class="heb">וְלַ֥הַג</span> <span class="translit">(wə·la·haḡ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3854.htm">Strong's 3854: </a> </span><span class="str2">Intense mental application</span><br /><br /><span class="word">wearies</span><br /><span class="heb">יְגִעַ֥ת</span> <span class="translit">(yə·ḡi·‘aṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3024.htm">Strong's 3024: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wearying</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the body.</span><br /><span class="heb">בָּשָֽׂר׃</span> <span class="translit">(bā·śār)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1320.htm">Strong's 1320: </a> </span><span class="str2">Flesh, body, person, the pudenda of a, man</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:12 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-12.htm">OT Poetry: Ecclesiastes 12:12 Furthermore my son be admonished: of making (Ecclesiast. Ec Ecc Eccles.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-11.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 12:11"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 12:11" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/ecclesiastes/12-13.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 12:13"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 12:13" /></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>