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Despite his efforts to search it out, he cannot find its meaning; even if the wise man claims to know, he is unable to comprehend.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/18/21_Ecc_08_17.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Ecclesiastes 8:17 - God's Ways are Mysterious" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="I saw every work of God, and that a man is unable to comprehend the work that is done under the sun. 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No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun. Despite all their efforts to search it out, no one can discover its meaning. Even if the wise claim they know, they cannot really comprehend it. <a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New Living Translation</a> I realized that no one can discover everything God is doing under the sun. Not even the wisest people discover everything, no matter what they claim. <a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">English Standard Version</a> then I saw all the work of God, that man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun. However much man may toil in seeking, he will not find it out. Even though a wise man claims to know, he cannot find it out. <a href="/bsb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> I saw every work of God, and that a man is unable to comprehend the work that is done under the sun. Despite his efforts to search it out, he cannot find its meaning; even if the wise man claims to know, he is unable to comprehend. <a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">King James Bible</a> Then I beheld all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because though a man labour to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea further; though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it. <a href="/nkjv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New King James Version</a> then I saw all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun. For though a man labors to discover it, yet he will not find it; moreover, though a wise man attempts to know it, he will not be able to find it. <a href="/nasb_/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> and I saw every work of God, I concluded that one cannot discover the work which has been done under the sun. Even though a person laboriously seeks, he will not discover; and even if the wise person claims to know, he cannot discover. <a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">NASB 1995</a> and I saw every work of God, I concluded that man cannot discover the work which has been done under the sun. Even though man should seek laboriously, he will not discover; and though the wise man should say, &#8220I know,&#8221 he cannot discover. <a href="/nasb77/ecclesiastes/8.htm">NASB 1977 </a> and I saw every work of God, I concluded that man cannot discover the work which has been done under the sun. Even though man should seek laboriously, he will not discover; and though the wise man should say, “I know,” he cannot discover. <a href="/lsb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> and I saw every work of God, I concluded that man cannot find out the work which has been done under the sun. Even though man should seek laboriously, he will not find it out; and though the wise man should say, “I know,” he cannot find it out. <a href="/amp/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Amplified Bible</a> and I saw all the work of God, I concluded that man cannot discover the work that is done under the sun. Even though man may labor in seeking, he will not discover; and [more than that], though a wise man thinks and claims he knows, he will not be able to find it out. <a href="/csb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> I observed all the work of God and concluded that a person is unable to discover the work that is done under the sun. Even though a person labors hard to explore it, he cannot find it; even if a wise person claims to know it, he is unable to discover it. <a href="/hcsb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> I observed all the work of God and concluded that man is unable to discover the work that is done under the sun. Even though a man labors hard to explore it, he cannot find it; even if the wise man claims to know it, he is unable to discover it. <a href="/asv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">American Standard Version</a> then I beheld all the work of God, that man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because however much a man labor to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea moreover, though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it. <a href="/cev/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I saw everything God does, and I realized no one can really understand what happens. We may be very wise, but no matter how much we try or how much we claim to know, we cannot understand it all. <a href="/erv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">English Revised Version</a> then I beheld all the work of God, that man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because however much a man labour to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea moreover, though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it. <a href="/gwt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> then I saw everything that God has done. No one is able to grasp the work that is done under the sun. However hard a person may search for it, he will not find [its meaning]. Even though a wise person claims to know, he is not able to grasp it. <a href="/gnt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Good News Translation</a> and never be able to understand what God is doing. However hard you try, you will never find out. The wise may claim to know, but they don't. <a href="/isv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">International Standard Version</a> I saw all of it as the activity of God. Frankly, a human being cannot understand what happens on earth, because however hard a man works to discover it, he will not find out. Despite what he thinks he knows, he will not be able to figure it out. <a href="/msb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> I saw every work of God, and that a man is unable to comprehend the work that is done under the sun. Despite his efforts to search it out, he cannot find its meaning; even if the wise man claims to know, he is unable to comprehend. <a href="/net/ecclesiastes/8.htm">NET Bible</a> then I discerned all that God has done: No one really comprehends what happens on earth. Despite all human efforts to discover it, no one can ever grasp it. Even if a wise person claimed that he understood, he would not really comprehend it. <a href="/nheb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> then I saw all the work of God, that man can't find out the work that is done under the sun, because however much a man labors to seek it out, yet he won't find it. Yes even though a wise man thinks he can comprehend it, he won't be able to find it. <a href="/wbt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Then I beheld all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because though a man may labor to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yes further; though a wise man thinketh to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it. <a href="/web/ecclesiastes/8.htm">World English Bible</a> then I saw all the work of God, that man can’t find out the work that is done under the sun, because however much a man labors to seek it out, yet he won’t find it. Yes even though a wise man thinks he can comprehend it, he won’t be able to find it. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> then I considered all the work of God, that man is not able to find out the work that has been done under the sun, because though man labor to seek, yet he does not find; and even though the wise man speak of knowing he is not able to find. <a href="/ylt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> then I considered all the work of God, that man is not able to find out the work that hath been done under the sun, because though man labour to seek, yet he doth not find; and even though the wise man speak of knowing he is not able to find. <a href="/slt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And I saw all the work of God, that no man shall be able to find out the work that was done under the sun in whatsoever a man shall labor to seek out, and he shall not find: and also if the wise one shall say to know, he shall not be able to find.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And I understood that man can find no reason of all those works of God that are done under the sun: and the more he shall labour to seek, so much the less shall he find: yea, though the wise man shall say, that he knoweth it, he shall not be able to find it. <a href="/cpdv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And I understood that man is able to find no explanation for all those works of God which are done under the sun. And so, the more that he labors to seek, so much the less does he find. Yes, even if a wise man were to claim that he knows, he would not be able to discover it. <a href="/nabre/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New American Bible</a> and I saw all the work of God: No mortal can find out the work that is done under the sun. However much mortals may toil in searching, no one finds it out; and even if the wise claim to know, they are unable to find it out. <a href="/nrsvce/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> then I saw all the work of God, that no one can find out what is happening under the sun. However much they may toil in seeking, they will not find it out; even though those who are wise claim to know, they cannot find it out.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Then I saw all the work of God, that man cannot find out the work which is done under the sun; all that a man may labor to seek out, yet he will not find it; and whosoever says that he is wise yet will not be able to find it. <a href="/hpbt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> And I have seen all the work of God, for a son of man will not master the work that is done under the sun. All that a son of man toils that he may seek he will not find, and none who will claim to know The Wise One will be able to find<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/ecclesiastes/8.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> then I beheld all the work of God, that man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun; because though a man labour to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea further, though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it. <a href="/sep/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> And I beheld all the works of God, that a man shall not be able to discover the work which is wrought under the sun; whatsoever things a man shall endeavour to seek, however a man may labour to seek it, yet he shall not find it; yea, how much soever a wise man may speak of knowing it, he shall not be able to find it: for I applied all this to my heart, and my heart has seen all this. <a href="/parallel/ecclesiastes/8-17.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=1597" 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/8.htm">God's Ways are Mysterious</a> …16When I applied my mind to know wisdom and to observe the task that one performs on the earth—though his eyes do not see sleep in the day or even in the night— 17<a href="/hebrew/7200.htm" title="7200: wə·rā·’î·ṯî (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConjPerf-1cs) -- To see. A primitive root; to see, literally or figuratively.">I saw</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: kāl- (N-msc) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">every</a> <a href="/hebrew/4639.htm" title="4639: ma·‘ă·śêh (N-msc) -- A deed, work. From asah; an action; generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product or property.">work</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">of God,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">and that</a> <a href="/hebrew/120.htm" title="120: hā·’ā·ḏām (Art:: N-ms) -- Man, mankind. From 'adam; ruddy i.e. A human being.">a man</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 unable</a> <a href="/hebrew/3201.htm" title="3201: yū·ḵal (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To be able, have power. Or yakowl; a primitive root; to be able, literally or morally."></a> <a href="/hebrew/4672.htm" title="4672: lim·ṣō·w (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To attain to, find. ">to comprehend</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/4639.htm" title="4639: ham·ma·‘ă·śeh (Art:: N-ms) -- A deed, work. From asah; an action; generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product or property.">the work</a> <a href="/hebrew/834.htm" title="834: ’ă·šer (Pro-r) -- Who, which, that. A primitive relative pronoun; who, which, what, that; also when, where, how, because, in order that, etc.">that</a> <a href="/hebrew/6213.htm" title="6213: na·‘ă·śāh (V-Nifal-Perf-3ms) -- To do, make. A primitive root; to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application.">is done</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/bə·šel (Prep-b:: Pro-r) -- ">Despite</a> <a href="/hebrew/834.htm" title="834: ’ă·šer (Pro-r) -- Who, which, that. A primitive relative pronoun; who, which, what, that; also when, where, how, because, in order that, etc."></a> <a href="/hebrew/120.htm" title="120: hā·’ā·ḏām (Art:: N-ms) -- Man, mankind. From 'adam; ruddy i.e. A human being.">his</a> <a href="/hebrew/5998.htm" title="5998: ya·‘ă·mōl (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To labor, toil. A primitive root; to toil, i.e. Work severely and with irksomeness.">efforts</a> <a href="/hebrew/1245.htm" title="1245: lə·ḇaq·qêš (Prep-l:: V-Piel-Inf) -- To seek. A primitive root; to search out; by implication, to strive after.">to search it out,</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.">he cannot</a> <a href="/hebrew/4672.htm" title="4672: yim·ṣā (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To attain to, find. ">find its meaning;</a> <a href="/hebrew/1571.htm" title="1571: wə·ḡam (Conj) -- Also, moreover, yea. ">even</a> <a href="/hebrew/518.htm" title="518: ’im- (Conj) -- If. A primitive particle; used very widely as demonstrative, lo!">if</a> <a href="/hebrew/2450.htm" title="2450: he·ḥā·ḵām (Art:: Adj-ms) -- Wise. From chakam; wise.">the wise</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: yō·mar (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">man claims</a> <a href="/hebrew/3045.htm" title="3045: lā·ḏa·‘aṯ (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- A primitive root; to know; used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially.">to know,</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.">he is unable</a> <a href="/hebrew/3201.htm" title="3201: yū·ḵal (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To be able, have power. Or yakowl; a primitive root; to be able, literally or morally."></a> <a href="/hebrew/4672.htm" title="4672: lim·ṣō (Prep-l:: V-Qal-Inf) -- To attain to, find. ">to comprehend.</a> <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="/job/11-7.htm">Job 11:7-9</a> Can you fathom the deep things of God or discover the limits of the Almighty? / They are higher than the heavens—what can you do? They are deeper than Sheol—what can you know? / Their measure is longer than the earth and wider than the sea. <a href="/romans/11-33.htm">Romans 11:33-34</a> O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and untraceable His ways! / “Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counselor?” <a href="/isaiah/55-8.htm">Isaiah 55:8-9</a> “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. / “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts. <a href="/psalms/139-6.htm">Psalm 139:6</a> Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. <a href="/job/28-12.htm">Job 28:12-28</a> But where can wisdom be found, and where does understanding dwell? / No man can know its value, nor is it found in the land of the living. / The ocean depths say, ‘It is not in me,’ while the sea declares, ‘It is not with me.’ ... <a href="/1_corinthians/2-9.htm">1 Corinthians 2:9-11</a> Rather, as it is written: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart has imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him.” / But God has revealed it to us by the Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. / For who among men knows the thoughts of man except his own spirit within him? So too, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. <a href="/proverbs/25-2.htm">Proverbs 25:2</a> It is the glory of God to conceal a matter and the glory of kings to search it out. <a href="/psalms/145-3.htm">Psalm 145:3</a> Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable. <a href="/job/5-9.htm">Job 5:9</a> the One who does great and unsearchable things, wonders without number. <a href="/isaiah/40-28.htm">Isaiah 40:28</a> Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary; His understanding is beyond searching out. <a href="/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12</a> Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. <a href="/psalms/92-5.htm">Psalm 92:5</a> How great are Your works, O LORD, how deep are Your thoughts! <a href="/job/37-5.htm">Job 37:5</a> God thunders wondrously with His voice; He does great things we cannot comprehend. <a href="/daniel/2-22.htm">Daniel 2:22</a> He reveals the deep and hidden things; He knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with Him. <a href="/matthew/11-25.htm">Matthew 11:25-27</a> At that time Jesus declared, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. / Yes, Father, for this was well-pleasing in Your sight. / All things have been entrusted to Me by My Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Then I beheld all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because though a man labor to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yes farther; though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it.that a man<a href="/ecclesiastes/3-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 3:11</a> He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.<a href="/ecclesiastes/7-23.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:23,24</a> All this have I proved by wisdom: I said, I will be wise; but it was far from me… <a href="/ecclesiastes/11-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 11:5</a> As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-7.htm">Able</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-32.htm">Beheld</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-2.htm">Comprehend</a> <a href="/psalms/106-30.htm">Farther</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-28.htm">Find</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-2.htm">Further</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/6-3.htm">However</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-16.htm">Labors</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-25.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-15.htm">Sun</a> <a href="/proverbs/14-8.htm">Think</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-7.htm">Thinketh</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-7.htm">Thinks</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Wise</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-29.htm">Won't</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-14.htm">Work</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/ecclesiastes/10-14.htm">Able</a> <a href="/isaiah/41-28.htm">Beheld</a> <a href="/isaiah/33-19.htm">Comprehend</a> <a href="/jeremiah/31-39.htm">Farther</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/11-1.htm">Find</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-5.htm">Further</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/11-8.htm">However</a> <a href="/isaiah/58-3.htm">Labors</a> <a href="/songs/3-2.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-3.htm">Sun</a> <a href="/isaiah/10-7.htm">Think</a> <a href="/isaiah/10-7.htm">Thinketh</a> <a href="/isaiah/44-19.htm">Thinks</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-1.htm">Wise</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/11-4.htm">Won't</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-9.htm">Work</a><div class="vheading2">Ecclesiastes 8</div>1. <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-1.htm">true wisdom is modest</a> 2. <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-2.htm">Kings are to be respected</a> 6. <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm">Divine providence is to be observed</a> 12. <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-12.htm">It is better with the godly in adversity, than with the wicked in prosperity</a> 16. <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-16.htm">The work of God is unsearchable</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/8.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/8.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>I saw every work of God This phrase reflects the author's observation of the vast and intricate works of God in the world. It echoes the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and the complexity of His creation, as seen in passages like <a href="/job/38.htm">Job 38-41</a>, where God challenges Job's understanding of the universe. The phrase suggests a comprehensive view, acknowledging that all events and actions are ultimately under God's control.and that a man is unable to comprehend the work that is done under the sun. This highlights human limitations in understanding divine purposes and the full scope of God's actions. The phrase "under the sun" is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes, referring to the earthly, temporal realm. It underscores the idea that human wisdom is finite, as also expressed in <a href="/isaiah/55-8.htm">Isaiah 55:8-9</a>, where God's thoughts and ways are higher than human understanding.Despite his efforts to search it out, he cannot find its meaning; This reflects the futility of human endeavors to fully grasp God's plans through mere intellectual pursuit. It aligns with the biblical teaching that true wisdom and understanding come from God (<a href="/proverbs/2-6.htm">Proverbs 2:6</a>). The phrase suggests that human efforts, no matter how diligent, are insufficient to uncover the divine mysteries.even if the wise man claims to know, This phrase addresses the presumption of human wisdom. It serves as a caution against pride and self-reliance, reminiscent of the warnings in <a href="/proverbs/3-7.htm">Proverbs 3:7</a>, "Do not be wise in your own eyes." It implies that even those considered wise by worldly standards are limited in their understanding of God's ways.he is unable to comprehend. The conclusion reinforces the theme of human limitation in the face of divine mystery. It echoes the sentiment found in <a href="/romans/11-33.htm">Romans 11:33</a>, where Paul marvels at the depth of God's wisdom and knowledge, acknowledging that His judgments and ways are beyond human comprehension. This phrase serves as a reminder of the need for humility and faith in God's greater plan.<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. His reflections in Ecclesiastes often explore the meaning of life and human limitations. 2. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> The Creator and Sovereign of the universe, whose works and purposes are beyond full human understanding. 3. <a href="/topical/m/man.htm">Man</a> Represents humanity in general, highlighting human limitations in understanding divine purposes. 4. <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 emphasizing the temporal and often perplexing nature of worldly experiences. 5. <a href="/topical/w/wisdom.htm">Wisdom</a> A central theme in Ecclesiastes, representing human attempts to understand life and its meaning, often contrasted with divine wisdom.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/h/human_limitations.htm">Human Limitations</a> Despite our best efforts, we must acknowledge that our understanding of God's work is limited. This should lead us to humility and reliance on God rather than our own wisdom. <a href="/topical/t/the_pursuit_of_wisdom.htm">The Pursuit of Wisdom</a> While wisdom is valuable, it has its limits. True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and recognizes the boundaries of human understanding. <a href="/topical/t/trust_in_god's_sovereignty.htm">Trust in God's Sovereignty</a> Even when we cannot comprehend God's plans, we can trust in His sovereignty and goodness. This trust should lead to peace and contentment in our lives. <a href="/topical/t/the_mystery_of_life.htm">The Mystery of Life</a> Life's complexities and mysteries should drive us to seek God more earnestly, knowing that He holds the answers we cannot find on our own. <a href="/topical/l/living_by_faith.htm">Living by Faith</a> In the face of uncertainty, we are called to live by faith, trusting that God is working all things for His glory and our good, even when we do not understand.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ecclesiastes_8.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ecclesiastes 8</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_time_travel.htm">What does the Bible say about time travel?</a> <a href="/q/meaning_of_'eat,_drink,_and_be_merry'.htm">What does 'Eat, Drink, and Be Merry' mean?</a> <a href="/q/does_ecclesiastes_8_16-17_conflict_with_other_biblical_revelations.htm">Does the author’s emphasis on the limitation of human understanding in Ecclesiastes 8:16–17 conflict with other biblical texts that claim revelations of divine mysteries? </a> <a href="/q/how_does_ecclesiastes_3_1_fit_chaos_today.htm">How does Ecclesiastes 3:1 align with the seemingly random and chaotic nature of modern events, such as natural disasters and accidents? </a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 17. - Then I beheld all the work of God. This is the apodosis to the first clause of ver. 16. "God's work" is the same as the work that is done under the sun, and means men's actions and the providential ordering thereof. This a man, with his finite understanding, cannot find out, cannot thoroughly comprehend or explain (comp. <a href="/ecclesiastes/3-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 3:11</a>; <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-23.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:23, 24</a>). Because though a man labor to seek it out. The Septuagint has, Ὅσα α}ν μοχθήσῃ, "Whatsoever things a man shall labor to seek;" Vulgate, Quanto plus laboraverit ad quaerendum, tanto minus inveniat. The interpreters waver between "how much so ever," and "wherefore a man labors." The latter seems to be best. Though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it. It is the part of wisdom to determine to know all that can be known; but the resolution is baffled here (comp. <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-23.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:23</a>). The two verses, with their repetitions and tautologous expressions, seem to denote perturbation of mind in the author and his sense of the gravity of his assertions. He is overwhelmed with the thought of the inscrutability of God's judgments, while he is forced to face the facts. An exquisite commentary on this passage is found in Hooker, 'Eccl. Pol.,' 1:2. § 2, quoted by Plumptre; and in Bishop Butler's sermon 'On the Ignorance of Man,' where we read, "From it [the knowledge of our ignorance] we may learn with what temper of mind a man ought to inquire into the subject of religion, namely, with what expectation of finding difficulties, and with a disposition to take up and rest satisfied with any evidence whatever which is real. A man should beforehand expect things mysterious, and such as he will not be able thoroughly to comprehend or go to the bottom of.... Our ignorance is the proper answer to many things which are called objections against religion, particularly to those which arise from the appearance of evil and irregularity in the constitution of nature and the government of the world Since the constitution of nature and the methods and designs of Providence in the government of the world are above our comprehension, we should acquiesce in and rest satisfied with our ignorance, turn our thoughts from that which is above and beyond us, and apply ourselves to that which is level to our capacities, and which is our real business and concern .... Lastly, let us adore that infinite wisdom and power and goodness which is above our comprehension (Ecclus. 1:6). The conclusion is that in all lowliness of mind we set lightly by ourselves; that we form our temper to an implicit submission to the Divine Majesty, beget within ourselves an absolute resignation to all the methods of his providence in his dealings with the children of men; that in the deepest humility of our souls we prostrate ourselves before him, and join in that celestial song, 'Great and marvelous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy Name?' (<a href="/revelation/15-3.htm">Revelation 15:3, 4</a>) (comp. <a href="/romans/11-33.htm">Romans 11:33</a>). <a href="/commentaries/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>I saw וְרָאִיתִי֮ (wə·rā·’î·ṯî) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive perfect - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7200.htm">Strong's 7200: </a> To see every כָּל־ (kāl-) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> The whole, all, any, every work מַעֲשֵׂ֣ה (ma·‘ă·śêh) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4639.htm">Strong's 4639: </a> An action, a transaction, activity, a product, property of God, הָאֱלֹהִים֒ (hā·’ĕ·lō·hîm) Article | Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_430.htm">Strong's 430: </a> gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative and that כִּי֩ (kî) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> A relative conjunction a man הָאָדָ֗ם (hā·’ā·ḏām) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_120.htm">Strong's 120: </a> Ruddy, a human being is unable לֹ֨א (lō) Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no to comprehend לִמְצוֹא֙ (lim·ṣō·w) Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4672.htm">Strong's 4672: </a> To come forth to, appear, exist, to attain, find, acquire, to occur, meet, be present the work הַֽמַּעֲשֶׂה֙ (ham·ma·‘ă·śeh) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4639.htm">Strong's 4639: </a> An action, a transaction, activity, a product, property that אֲשֶׁ֣ר (’ă·šer) Pronoun - relative <a href="/hebrew/strongs_834.htm">Strong's 834: </a> Who, which, what, that, when, where, how, because, in order that is done נַעֲשָׂ֣ה (na·‘ă·śāh) Verb - Nifal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6213.htm">Strong's 6213: </a> To do, make under תַֽחַת־ (ṯa·ḥaṯ-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8478.htm">Strong's 8478: </a> The bottom, below, in lieu of the sun. הַשֶּׁ֔מֶשׁ (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 Despite בְּ֠שֶׁל (bə·šel) Preposition-b | Pronoun - relative <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7945.htm">Strong's 7945: </a> On account of, whatsoever, whichsoever [his] הָאָדָ֛ם (hā·’ā·ḏām) Article | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_120.htm">Strong's 120: </a> Ruddy, a human being efforts יַעֲמֹ֧ל (ya·‘ă·mōl) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5998.htm">Strong's 5998: </a> To toil, work severely and with irksomeness to search it out, לְבַקֵּ֖שׁ (lə·ḇaq·qêš) Preposition-l | Verb - Piel - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1245.htm">Strong's 1245: </a> To search out, to strive after he cannot וְלֹ֣א (wə·lō) Conjunctive waw | Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no find [its meaning]; יִמְצָ֑א (yim·ṣā) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4672.htm">Strong's 4672: </a> To come forth to, appear, exist, to attain, find, acquire, to occur, meet, be present even וְגַ֨ם (wə·ḡam) Conjunctive waw | Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1571.htm">Strong's 1571: </a> Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, and if אִם־ (’im-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_518.htm">Strong's 518: </a> Lo!, whether?, if, although, Oh that!, when, not the wise הֶֽחָכָם֙ (he·ḥā·ḵām) Article | Adjective - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2450.htm">Strong's 2450: </a> Wise man claims יֹאמַ֤ר (yō·mar) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say to know, לָדַ֔עַת (lā·ḏa·‘aṯ) Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3045.htm">Strong's 3045: </a> To know he is unable לֹ֥א (lō) Adverb - Negative particle <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> Not, no to comprehend. לִמְצֹֽא׃ (lim·ṣō) Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4672.htm">Strong's 4672: </a> To come forth to, appear, exist, to attain, find, acquire, to occur, meet, be present <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:17 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:17 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:17 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:17 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:17 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:17 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:17 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:17 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:17 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:17 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">OT Poetry: Ecclesiastes 8:17 Then I saw all the work (Ecclesiast. Ec Ecc Eccles.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-16.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 8:16"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 8:16" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/ecclesiastes/9-1.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 9:1"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 9:1" /></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>