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id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/ecclesiastes/7.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/7.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: Wisdom preserves those who have it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/7.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Wisdom and money can get you almost anything, but only wisdom can save your life.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/7.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />For wisdom, like money, is a shelter, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of its owner.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/7.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />For wisdom <i>is</i> a defence, <i>and</i> money <i>is</i> a defence: but the excellency of knowledge <i>is, that</i> wisdom giveth life to them that have it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/ecclesiastes/7.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />For wisdom <i>is</i> a defense <i>as</i> money <i>is</i> a defense, But the excellence of knowledge <i>is that</i> wisdom gives life to those who have it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/ecclesiastes/7.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />For wisdom is protection <i>just as</i> money is protection, But the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom keeps its possessors alive.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/7.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />For wisdom is protection just as money is protection, But the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the lives of its possessors.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/ecclesiastes/7.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />For wisdom is protection <i>just as</i> money is protection. But the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the lives of its possessors.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />For wisdom is a shadow <i>of protection as</i> money is a shadow <i>of protection</i>, And the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the lives of its masters.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />For wisdom is a protection <i>even as</i> money is a protection, But the [excellent] advantage of knowledge is that wisdom shields <i>and</i> preserves the lives of its possessors.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />because wisdom is protection as silver is protection; but the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of its owner.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />because wisdom is protection as money is protection, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of its owner. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/ecclesiastes/7.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />For wisdom is a defence, even as money is a defence; but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom preserveth the life of him that hath it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />Wisdom will protect you just like money; knowledge with good sense will lead you to life. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/ecclesiastes/7.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />For wisdom is a defence, even as money is a defence: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom preserveth the life of him that hath it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/ecclesiastes/7.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Wisdom protects us just as money protects us, but the advantage of wisdom is that it gives life to those who have it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />and will give you as much security as money can. Wisdom keeps you safe--this is the advantage of knowledge. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/ecclesiastes/7.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Indeed, wisdom gives protection, just like money does, but it's better to know that wisdom gives life, to those who have mastered it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />For wisdom, like money, is a shelter, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of its owner.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/ecclesiastes/7.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />For wisdom provides protection, just as money provides protection. But the advantage of knowledge is this: Wisdom preserves the life of its owner. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/ecclesiastes/7.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />For wisdom is a defense, even as money is a defense; but the excellency of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />For wisdom is a defense, and money is a defense: but the excellence of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/ecclesiastes/7.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />For wisdom is a defense, even as money is a defense; but the excellency of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />For wisdom [is] a defense, money [is] a defense, "" And the advantage of the knowledge of wisdom [is], "" She revives her possessors.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> For wisdom is a defense, money is a defence, And the advantage of the knowledge of wisdom is, She reviveth her possessors.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />For in the shadow, wisdom; in the shadow, silver: and the excellence of knowledge is wisdom shall preserve alive those possessing it.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />For as wisdom is a defence, so money is a defence : but learning and wisdom excel in this, that they give life to him that possesseth them. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br /><V 7:13>For as wisdom protects, so also does money protect. But learning and wisdom have this much more: that they grant life to one who possesses them.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/ecclesiastes/7.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />For the protection of wisdom is as the protection of money; and knowledge is profitable because wisdom gives life to those who possess it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/ecclesiastes/7.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom gives life to the one who possesses it.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money; and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom gives life to him who possesses it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />Because the shade of wisdom is like the shade of money, and the profit of knowledge is that wisdom will save its owner<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/ecclesiastes/7.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />For wisdom is a defence, even as money is a defence; but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom preserveth the life of him that hath it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />For wisdom in its shadow is as the shadow of silver: and the excellence of the knowledge of wisdom will give life to him that has it.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/ecclesiastes/7-12.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=1248" 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/7.htm">The Value of Wisdom</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">11</span>Wisdom, like an inheritance, is good, and it benefits those who see the sun. <span class="reftext">12</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">For</a> <a href="/hebrew/2451.htm" title="2451: ha·ḥā·ḵə·māh (Art:: N-fs) -- Wisdom. From chakam; wisdom.">wisdom,</a> <a href="/hebrew/6738.htm" title="6738: bə·ṣêl (Prep-b:: N-ms) -- A shadow. From tsalal; shade, whether literal or figurative."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3701.htm" title="3701: hak·kā·sep̄ (Art:: N-ms) -- Silver, money. From kacaph; silver; by implication, money.">like money,</a> <a href="/hebrew/6738.htm" title="6738: bə·ṣêl (Prep-b:: N-ms) -- A shadow. From tsalal; shade, whether literal or figurative.">is a shelter,</a> <a href="/hebrew/3504.htm" title="3504: wə·yiṯ·rō·wn (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- Advantage, profit. From yathar; preeminence, gain.">and the advantage</a> <a href="/hebrew/1847.htm" title="1847: da·‘aṯ (N-fs) -- Knowledge. From yada'; knowledge.">of knowledge</a> <a href="/hebrew/2451.htm" title="2451: ha·ḥā·ḵə·māh (Art:: N-fs) -- Wisdom. From chakam; wisdom.">is that wisdom</a> <a href="/hebrew/2421.htm" title="2421: tə·ḥay·yeh (V-Piel-Imperf-3fs) -- To live, to revive. A primitive root; to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive.">preserves the life</a> <a href="/hebrew/1167.htm" title="1167: ḇə·‘ā·le·hā (N-mpc:: 3fs) -- Owner, lord. From ba'al; a master; hence, a husband, or owner.">of its owner.</a> </span><span class="reftext">13</span>Consider the work of God: Who can straighten what He has bent?…<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/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="/proverbs/2-6.htm">Proverbs 2:6-7</a></span><br />For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. / He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk with integrity,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/3-13.htm">Proverbs 3:13-18</a></span><br />Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who acquires understanding, / for she is more profitable than silver, and her gain is better than fine gold. / She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire compares with her. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/8-10.htm">Proverbs 8:10-11</a></span><br />Receive my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. / For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire compares with her.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/16-16.htm">Proverbs 16:16</a></span><br />How much better to acquire wisdom than gold! To gain understanding is more desirable than silver.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/19-8.htm">Proverbs 19:8</a></span><br />He who acquires wisdom loves himself; one who safeguards understanding will find success.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/24-5.htm">Proverbs 24:5</a></span><br />A wise man is strong, and a man of knowledge enhances his strength.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/job/28-28.htm">Job 28:28</a></span><br />And He said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/psalms/111-10.htm">Psalm 111:10</a></span><br />The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts gain rich understanding. His praise endures forever!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/33-6.htm">Isaiah 33:6</a></span><br />He will be the sure foundation for your times, a storehouse of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the LORD is Zion’s treasure.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/2-2.htm">Colossians 2:2-3</a></span><br />that they may be encouraged in heart, knit together in love, and filled with the full riches of complete understanding, so that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, / in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/1-5.htm">James 1:5</a></span><br />Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/3-13.htm">James 3:13-17</a></span><br />Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. / But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. / Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/1-24.htm">1 Corinthians 1:24</a></span><br />but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/1-30.htm">1 Corinthians 1:30</a></span><br />It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God: our righteousness, holiness, and redemption.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">For wisdom is a defense, and money is a defense: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom gives life to them that have it.</p><p class="hdg">wisdom</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/1-10.htm">Job 1:10</a></b></br> Hast not thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/job/22-21.htm">Job 22:21-15</a></b></br> Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/2-7.htm">Proverbs 2:7,11</a></b></br> He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: <i>he is</i> a buckler to them that walk uprightly… </p><p class="hdg">a defence</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/judges/9-15.htm">Judges 9:15</a></b></br> And the bramble said unto the trees, If in truth ye anoint me king over you, <i>then</i> come <i>and</i> put your trust in my shadow: and if not, let fire come out of the bramble, and devour the cedars of Lebanon.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/57-1.htm">Psalm 57:1</a></b></br> To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave. Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until <i>these</i> calamities be overpast.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/isaiah/30-2.htm">Isaiah 30:2</a></b></br> That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt!</p><p class="hdg">the excellency</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/deuteronomy/30-19.htm">Deuteronomy 30:19,20</a></b></br> I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, <i>that</i> I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/deuteronomy/32-47.htm">Deuteronomy 32:47</a></b></br> For it <i>is</i> not a vain thing for you; because it <i>is</i> your life: and through this thing ye shall prolong <i>your</i> days in the land, whither ye go over Jordan to possess it.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/proverbs/3-18.htm">Proverbs 3:18</a></b></br> She <i>is</i> a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy <i>is every one</i> that retaineth her.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-11.htm">Advantage</a> <a href="/proverbs/29-25.htm">Danger</a> <a href="/psalms/108-8.htm">Defence</a> <a href="/psalms/94-22.htm">Defense</a> <a href="/psalms/68-34.htm">Excellence</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-7.htm">Excellency</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/6-2.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-20.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/6-12.htm">Life</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-7.htm">Maketh</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-7.htm">Money</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-13.htm">Possessor</a> <a href="/proverbs/17-8.htm">Possessors</a> <a href="/proverbs/16-17.htm">Preserves</a> <a href="/proverbs/24-12.htm">Preserveth</a> <a href="/psalms/5-11.htm">Protection</a> <a href="/job/36-6.htm">Reviveth</a> <a href="/psalms/91-1.htm">Shelter</a> <a href="/proverbs/31-30.htm">Value</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-11.htm">Wisdom</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/ecclesiastes/10-10.htm">Advantage</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-9.htm">Danger</a> <a href="/isaiah/4-5.htm">Defence</a> <a href="/isaiah/4-5.htm">Defense</a> <a href="/isaiah/4-2.htm">Excellence</a> <a href="/isaiah/2-10.htm">Excellency</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-19.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-15.htm">Life</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-1.htm">Maketh</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-19.htm">Money</a> <a href="/micah/1-15.htm">Possessor</a> <a href="/zechariah/11-5.htm">Possessors</a> <a href="/jeremiah/5-24.htm">Preserves</a> <a href="/job/24-22.htm">Preserveth</a> <a href="/isaiah/4-6.htm">Protection</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-9.htm">Reviveth</a> <a href="/isaiah/1-8.htm">Shelter</a> <a href="/isaiah/2-22.htm">Value</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-19.htm">Wisdom</a><div class="vheading2">Ecclesiastes 7</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-1.htm">remedies against vanity are, a good name</a></span><br><span class="reftext">2. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-2.htm">mortification</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-7.htm">patience</a></span><br><span class="reftext">11. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-11.htm">wisdom</a></span><br><span class="reftext">23. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-23.htm">The difficulty of wisdom</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/7.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/7.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>For wisdom, like money, is a shelter</b><br>In the ancient Near Eastern context, both wisdom and wealth were seen as means of protection and security. Wisdom, in biblical terms, is not merely intellectual knowledge but a practical understanding of how to live in accordance with God's will. <a href="/proverbs/4-7.htm">Proverbs 4:7</a> emphasizes the importance of acquiring wisdom, suggesting it is foundational to a righteous life. Just as money can provide physical security and protection from life's uncertainties, wisdom offers spiritual and moral shelter, guiding individuals through life's complexities and challenges. The comparison to money highlights the tangible benefits of wisdom, suggesting it is as essential to life as financial resources.<p><b>and the advantage of knowledge</b><br>Knowledge in the biblical sense often refers to an intimate understanding of God's laws and principles. <a href="/hosea/4-6.htm">Hosea 4:6</a> warns that a lack of knowledge leads to destruction, underscoring its importance. The advantage of knowledge is that it equips individuals to make informed decisions, discern truth from falsehood, and live in a way that honors God. In the cultural context of Ecclesiastes, where human endeavors often seem futile, knowledge provides a framework for understanding life's purpose and meaning beyond mere earthly pursuits.<p><b>is that wisdom preserves the life of its owner</b><br>The preservation of life through wisdom can be understood both physically and spiritually. <a href="/proverbs/3-21.htm">Proverbs 3:21-22</a> speaks of wisdom and discretion as life to the soul and grace to the neck, indicating that wisdom leads to a life of peace and righteousness. In a historical context, wisdom was often associated with longevity and prosperity, as seen in the lives of biblical figures like Solomon. Spiritually, wisdom preserves life by aligning one's actions with God's will, leading to eternal life through faith. This phrase also echoes the protective nature of wisdom, akin to a fortress that guards against the moral and spiritual dangers of the world.<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, wealth, and writings.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/j/jerusalem.htm">Jerusalem</a></b><br>The central place of worship and governance during Solomon's reign, often associated with his rule and the location where he shared his wisdom.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_assembly.htm">The Assembly (Qoheleth)</a></b><br>The term used for the speaker in Ecclesiastes, often identified with Solomon, who addresses the assembly or congregation with teachings on life and wisdom.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_protective_nature_of_wisdom.htm">The Protective Nature of Wisdom</a></b><br>Just as money can provide a temporary shelter from life's difficulties, wisdom offers a more profound and lasting protection. It guides us in making decisions that align with God's will, preserving our spiritual and sometimes physical well-being.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/w/wisdom_vs._wealth.htm">Wisdom vs. Wealth</a></b><br>While both wisdom and money can serve as shelters, wisdom is superior because it preserves life in a holistic sense. Wealth can be lost or misused, but wisdom, when applied, leads to life-giving choices and eternal benefits.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_pursuit_of_knowledge.htm">The Pursuit of Knowledge</a></b><br>The verse highlights the advantage of knowledge, suggesting that the pursuit of understanding and discernment is valuable. As believers, we should seek knowledge that leads to wisdom, which in turn preserves and enriches our lives.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/eternal_perspective.htm">Eternal Perspective</a></b><br>Wisdom provides an eternal perspective, helping us to see beyond the immediate and temporary. It aligns our priorities with God's kingdom, ensuring that our lives are not just preserved but also fruitful in His service.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ecclesiastes_7.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ecclesiastes 7</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/how_does_eccles._12_7_align_with_science.htm">In Ecclesiastes 12:7, how can the phrase 'the spirit returns to God' be reconciled with scientific understandings of consciousness and death?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_ecclesiastes_7_16_conflict_with_matthew_6_33.htm">In Ecclesiastes 7:16, being 'overly righteous' is discouraged--doesn't this conflict with biblical commands to live righteously (e.g., Matthew 6:33)?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_wisdom_literature_in_the_bible.htm">What is Wisdom Literature in the Bible?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(12) <span class= "bld">A defence.--</span>Literally, <span class= "ital">a shadow </span>(<a href="/psalms/91-1.htm" title="He that dwells in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.">Psalm 91:1</a>; <a href="/psalms/121-5.htm" title="The LORD is your keeper: the LORD is your shade on your right hand.">Psalm 121:5</a>, &c). This verse harmonises with the interpretation of the preceding verse, which we prefer. "Wisdom and riches alike confer protection, but the pre-eminence of wisdom is," &c.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ecclesiastes/7.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 12.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">For wisdom is a defense, and money is a defense</span>; literally, <span class="accented">in the shade is wisdom</span>, <span class="accented">in the shade is money</span>; Septuagint, <span class="greek">Ὅτι ἐν σκιᾷ αὐτῆς ἡ σοφία ὡς σκιὰ ἀργυρίου</span>, "For in its shadow wisdom is as the shadow of money." Symmachus has, <span class="greek">Σκέπει σοφία</span> <span class="greek">ὡς σκέπει τὸ ἀργύριον</span>, "Wisdom shelters as money shelters." The Vulgate explains the obscure text by paraphrasing, <span class="accented">Sieur enirn protegit sapientia</span>, sic <span class="accented">protegit petunia</span>. Shadow, in Oriental phrase, is equivalent to protection (see <a href="/numbers/14-9.htm">Numbers 14:9</a>; <a href="/psalms/17-5.htm">Psalm 17:5</a>; <a href="/lamentations/4-20.htm">Lamentations 4:20</a>). Wisdom as well as money is a shield and defense to men. As it is said in one passage (<a href="/proverbs/13-8.htm">Proverbs 13:8</a>) that riches are the ransom of a man's life, so in another (<a href="/ecclesiastes/9-15.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:15</a>) we are told how wisdom delivered a city from destruction. The literal translation given above implies that he who has wisdom and he who has money rest under a safe protection, are secure from material evil. In this respect they are alike, and have analogous claims to man's regard. <span class="cmt_word">But the excellency</span> - profit, or advantage - <span class="cmt_word">of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it</span>. "Knowledge" (<span class="accented">daath</span>) and "wisdom" (<span class="accented">chokmah</span>) are practically here identical, the terms being varied for the sake of poetic parallelism. The Revised Version, following Delitzsch and others, renders, <span class="accented">Wisdom preserveth the life of him that hath it</span>; <span class="accented">i</span>.<span class="accented">e</span>. secures him from passions and excesses which tend to shorten life. This seems to be scarcely an adequate ground for the noteworthy advantage which wisdom is said to possess. The Septuagint gives, <span class="greek">Καὶ περίσσεια γνώσεως τῆς σοφίας ζωοποιήσει τόν παρ αὐτῆς</span> "And the excellence of the knowledge of wisdom will quicken him that hath it." Something more than the mere animal life is signified, a climax to the "defense" mentioned in the preceding clause - the higher, spiritual life which man has from God. Wisdom in the highest sense, that is, practical piety and religion, is "a tree of life to them that lay hold of her, and happy is every one that retaineth her" (<a href="/proverbs/3-18.htm">Proverbs 3:18</a>), where it is implied that wisdom restores to man the gift which he lost at the Fall (camp. also <a href="/proverbs/8-35.htm">Proverbs 8:35</a>). The Septuagint expression <span class="greek">ζωοποιήσει</span> recalls the words of Christ, "As the Father raiseth the dead and quickeneth (<span class="greek">ζωοποιεῖ</span>) them, even so the Son also quickeneth whom he will;" "It is the Spirit that quickeneth (<span class="greek">τὸ ζωοποιοῦν</span>)" (<a href="/john/5-21.htm">John 5:21</a>; <a href="/john/6-63.htm">John 6:63</a>). Koheleth attributes that power to wisdom which the more definite teaching of Christianity assigns to the influence of the Holy Spirit. Some would explain, "fortifies or vivifies the heart," <span class="accented">i</span>.<span class="accented">e</span>. imparts new life and strength to meet every fortune. The Vulgate rendering is far astray from the text, and does not accurately convey the sense of the passage, running thus: <span class="accented">Hoe autem plus habet eruditio et sapientia</span>: <span class="accented">quod vitam tribuunt possessori sue</span>, "But this more have learning and wisdom, that they give life to the possessor of them." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/ecclesiastes/7-12.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">For</span><br /><span class="heb">כִּ֛י</span> <span class="translit">(kî)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">A relative conjunction</span><br /><br /><span class="word">wisdom,</span><br /><span class="heb">הַֽחָכְמָ֖ה</span> <span class="translit">(ha·ḥā·ḵə·māh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2451.htm">Strong's 2451: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wisdom</span><br /><br /><span class="word">like money,</span><br /><span class="heb">הַכָּ֑סֶף</span> <span class="translit">(hak·kā·sep̄)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3701.htm">Strong's 3701: </a> </span><span class="str2">Silver, money</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[is] a shelter,</span><br /><span class="heb">בְּצֵ֣ל</span> <span class="translit">(bə·ṣêl)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6738.htm">Strong's 6738: </a> </span><span class="str2">A shadow</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and the advantage</span><br /><span class="heb">וְיִתְר֣וֹן</span> <span class="translit">(wə·yiṯ·rō·wn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3504.htm">Strong's 3504: </a> </span><span class="str2">Preeminence, gain</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of knowledge</span><br /><span class="heb">דַּ֔עַת</span> <span class="translit">(da·‘aṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1847.htm">Strong's 1847: </a> </span><span class="str2">Knowledge</span><br /><br /><span class="word">is that wisdom</span><br /><span class="heb">הַֽחָכְמָ֖ה</span> <span class="translit">(ha·ḥā·ḵə·māh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article | Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2451.htm">Strong's 2451: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wisdom</span><br /><br /><span class="word">preserves the life</span><br /><span class="heb">תְּחַיֶּ֥ה</span> <span class="translit">(tə·ḥay·yeh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Piel - Imperfect - third person feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2421.htm">Strong's 2421: </a> </span><span class="str2">To live, to revive</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of its owner.</span><br /><span class="heb">בְעָלֶֽיהָ׃</span> <span class="translit">(ḇə·‘ā·le·hā)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine plural construct | third person feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_1167.htm">Strong's 1167: </a> </span><span class="str2">A master, a husband, owner</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Ecclesiastes 7:12 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">OT Poetry: Ecclesiastes 7:12 For wisdom is a defense even as (Ecclesiast. Ec Ecc Eccles.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-11.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 7:11"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 7:11" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/ecclesiastes/7-13.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 7:13"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 7:13" /></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>