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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 8:5 Whoever keeps his command will come to no harm, and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/5/21_Ecc_08_05.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Ecclesiastes 8:5 - Obey the King" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Whoever keeps his command will come to no harm, and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure." /><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/8-5.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/8-5.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/8.htm">Chapter 8</a> > Verse 5</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="/ad5.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/8-4.htm" title="Ecclesiastes 8:4">◄</a> Ecclesiastes 8:5 <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm" title="Ecclesiastes 8:6">►</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/8.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/8.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Whoever obeys his command will come to no harm, and the wise heart will know the proper time and procedure.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Those who obey him will not be punished. Those who are wise will find a time and a way to do what is right,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Whoever keeps a command will know no evil thing, and the wise heart will know the proper time and the just way.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Whoever keeps his command will come to no harm, and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Whoso keepeth the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a wise man's heart discerneth both time and judgment.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />He who keeps his command will experience nothing harmful; And a wise man’s heart discerns both time and judgment,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />One who keeps a <i>royal</i> command experiences no trouble, for a wise heart knows the proper time and procedure.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />He who keeps a royal command experiences no trouble, for a wise heart knows the proper time and procedure.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/ecclesiastes/8.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />He who keeps a <i>royal</i> command experiences no trouble, for a wise heart knows the proper time and procedure.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />He who keeps a <i>royal</i> command experiences no evil thing, for a wise heart knows the <i>proper</i> time and custom.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Whoever keeps <i>and</i> observes a <i>royal</i> command will experience neither trouble <i>nor</i> misery; For a wise heart will know the proper time and [appropriate] procedure.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The one who keeps a command will not experience anything harmful, and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />The one who keeps a command will not experience anything harmful, and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Whoso keepeth the commandment shall know no evil thing; and a wise man's heart discerneth time and judgment:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />If you obey the king, you will stay out of trouble. So be wise and learn what to do and when to do it. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Whoso keepeth the commandment shall know no evil thing; and a wise man's heart discerneth time and judgment:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />Whoever obeys his commands will avoid trouble. The mind of a wise person will know the right time and the right way [to act].<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />As long as you obey his commands, you are safe, and a wise person knows how and when to do it. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Whoever obeys his commands will not experience harm, and the wise in heart will discern both the appropriate time and response.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Whoever keeps his command will come to no harm, and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/ecclesiastes/8.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Whoever obeys his command will not experience harm, and a wise person knows the proper time and procedure. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Whoever keeps the commandment shall not come to harm, and his wise heart will know the time and procedure.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />He who keepeth the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a wise man's heart discerneth both time and judgment.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/ecclesiastes/8.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Whoever keeps the commandment shall not come to harm, and his wise heart will know the time and procedure. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Whoever is keeping a command knows no evil thing, and time and judgment the heart of the wise knows.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Whoso is keeping a command knoweth no evil thing, and time and judgment the heart of the wise knoweth.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />He watching the command knew no evil word: and time and judgment the wise one will know.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />He that keepeth the commandments shall find no evil. The heart of a wise man understandeth time and answer. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Whoever keeps the commandment will not experience evil. The heart of a wise man understands the time to respond.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />“Whoever observes a command knows no harm, and the wise heart knows times and judgments.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/ecclesiastes/8.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Whoever obeys a command will meet no harm, and the wise mind will know the time and way.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />He who keeps a command shall know no evil thing; and a wise man's heart discerns both time and judgment.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hpbt/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a></span><br />He who keeps the commandment does not know an evil matter, and the heart of the wise knows time and judgment<div class="vheading2"><b>OT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/jps/ecclesiastes/8.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a></span><br />Whoso keepeth the commandment shall know no evil thing; And a wise man's heart discerneth time and judgment.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/sep/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a></span><br />He that keeps the commandment shall not know an evil thing: and the heart of the wise knows the time of judgement.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/ecclesiastes/8-5.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=1454" 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/8.htm">Obey the King</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">4</span>For the king’s word is supreme, and who can say to him, “What are you doing?” <span class="reftext">5</span><span class="highl"><a href="/hebrew/8104.htm" title="8104: šō·w·mêr (V-Qal-Prtcpl-msc) -- To keep, watch, preserve. A primitive root; properly, to hedge about, i.e. Guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.">Whoever keeps</a> <a href="/hebrew/4687.htm" title="4687: miṣ·wāh (N-fs) -- Commandment. From tsavah; a command, whether human or divine.">his command</a> <a href="/hebrew/3045.htm" title="3045: yê·ḏa‘ (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- A primitive root; to know; used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially.">will come to</a> <a href="/hebrew/1697.htm" title="1697: dā·ḇār (N-ms) -- Speech, word. From dabar; a word; by implication, a matter or thing; adverbially, a cause."></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.">no</a> <a href="/hebrew/7451.htm" title="7451: rā‘ (Adj-ms) -- Bad, evil. From ra'a'; bad or evil.">harm,</a> <a href="/hebrew/2450.htm" title="2450: ḥā·ḵām (Adj-ms) -- Wise. From chakam; wise.">and a wise</a> <a href="/hebrew/3820.htm" title="3820: lêḇ (N-ms) -- A form of lebab; the heart; also used very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the centre of anything.">heart</a> <a href="/hebrew/3045.htm" title="3045: yê·ḏa‘ (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- A primitive root; to know; used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially.">knows</a> <a href="/hebrew/6256.htm" title="6256: wə·‘êṯ (Conj-w:: N-cs) -- Time. From ad; time, especially now, when, etc.">the right time</a> <a href="/hebrew/4941.htm" title="4941: ū·miš·pāṭ (Conj-w:: N-ms) -- Judgment. ">and procedure.</a> </span><span class="reftext">6</span>For there is a right time and procedure to every purpose, though a man’s misery weighs heavily upon him.…<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/19-20.htm">Proverbs 19:20</a></span><br />Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/21-11.htm">Proverbs 21:11</a></span><br />When a mocker is punished, the simple gain wisdom; and when a wise man is instructed, he acquires knowledge.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/28-5.htm">Proverbs 28:5</a></span><br />Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the LORD comprehend fully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/16-20.htm">Proverbs 16:20</a></span><br />Whoever heeds instruction will find success, and blessed is he who trusts in the LORD.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/3-1.htm">Proverbs 3:1-2</a></span><br />My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; / for they will add length to your days, years and peace to your life.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/4-10.htm">Proverbs 4:10-13</a></span><br />Listen, my son, and receive my words, and the years of your life will be many. / I will guide you in the way of wisdom; I will lead you on straight paths. / When you walk, your steps will not be impeded; when you run, you will not stumble. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/14-16.htm">Proverbs 14:16</a></span><br />A wise man fears and turns from evil, but a fool is careless and reckless.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/22-17.htm">Proverbs 22:17-19</a></span><br />Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise—apply your mind to my knowledge— / for it is pleasing when you keep them within you and they are constantly on your lips. / So that your trust may be in the LORD, I instruct you today—yes, you.<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="/psalms/119-100.htm">Psalm 119:100</a></span><br />I discern more than the elders, for I obey Your precepts.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/26-3.htm">Isaiah 26:3</a></span><br />You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/daniel/12-10.htm">Daniel 12:10</a></span><br />Many will be purified, made spotless, and refined, but the wicked will continue to act wickedly. None of the wicked will understand, but the wise will understand.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/7-24.htm">Matthew 7:24-25</a></span><br />Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. / The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/11-28.htm">Luke 11:28</a></span><br />But He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/14-21.htm">John 14:21</a></span><br />Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me. The one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and reveal Myself to him.”</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Whoever keeps the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a wise man's heart discerns both time and judgment.</p><p class="hdg">keepeth</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/5-2.htm">Ecclesiastes 5:2</a></b></br> Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter <i>any</i> thing before God: for God <i>is</i> in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/exodus/1-17.htm">Exodus 1:17,20,21</a></b></br> But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/psalms/119-6.htm">Psalm 119:6</a></b></br> Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments.</p><p class="hdg">feel</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/2-14.htm">Ecclesiastes 2:14</a></b></br> The wise man's eyes <i>are</i> in his head; but the fool walketh in darkness: and I myself perceived also that one event happeneth to them all.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ecclesiastes/10-2.htm">Ecclesiastes 10:2</a></b></br> A wise man's heart <i>is</i> at his right hand; but a fool's heart at his left.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_chronicles/12-32.htm">1 Chronicles 12:32</a></b></br> And of the children of Issachar, <i>which were men</i> that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them <i>were</i> two hundred; and all their brethren <i>were</i> at their commandment.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-2.htm">Command</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-2.htm">Commandment</a> <a href="/proverbs/29-26.htm">Decision</a> <a href="/job/24-17.htm">Discerneth</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-3.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/genesis/42-29.htm">Experiences</a> <a href="/proverbs/23-35.htm">Feel</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-13.htm">Harm</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-26.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-8.htm">Judgment</a> <a href="/proverbs/29-18.htm">Keepeth</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/3-7.htm">Keeping</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-12.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-2.htm">Law</a> <a href="/psalms/144-13.htm">Manner</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-28.htm">Mind</a> <a href="/proverbs/19-16.htm">Obeys</a> <a href="/esther/1-13.htm">Procedure</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/6-3.htm">Proper</a> <a href="/psalms/72-1.htm">Royal</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/7-17.htm">Time</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/5-17.htm">Trouble</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-1.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/isaiah/5-6.htm">Command</a> <a href="/isaiah/23-11.htm">Commandment</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm">Decision</a> <a href="/genesis/37-33.htm">Discerneth</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/isaiah/26-9.htm">Experiences</a> <a href="/isaiah/32-9.htm">Feel</a> <a href="/isaiah/11-9.htm">Harm</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-9.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm">Judgment</a> <a href="/isaiah/7-21.htm">Keepeth</a> <a href="/songs/8-12.htm">Keeping</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/10-4.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/isaiah/1-10.htm">Law</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm">Manner</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-9.htm">Mind</a> <a href="/isaiah/50-10.htm">Obeys</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm">Procedure</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm">Proper</a> <a href="/songs/6-12.htm">Royal</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm">Time</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm">Trouble</a> <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-17.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Ecclesiastes 8</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-1.htm">true wisdom is modest</a></span><br><span class="reftext">2. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-2.htm">Kings are to be respected</a></span><br><span class="reftext">6. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm">Divine providence is to be observed</a></span><br><span class="reftext">12. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-12.htm">It is better with the godly in adversity, than with the wicked in prosperity</a></span><br><span class="reftext">16. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-16.htm">The work of God is unsearchable</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/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><b>Whoever keeps his command will come to no harm</b><br>This phrase emphasizes the importance of obedience to authority, reflecting a theme found throughout Scripture. In the context of Ecclesiastes, it likely refers to the king's command, as the book often discusses the role of rulers and governance. Biblically, obedience to authority is seen as a means of maintaining order and peace, as seen in <a href="/romans/13.htm">Romans 13:1-2</a>, which instructs believers to submit to governing authorities. The idea of coming to no harm suggests divine protection for those who follow God's ordained structures. Historically, in ancient Near Eastern cultures, loyalty to the king was crucial for personal safety and societal stability. This principle can also be seen as a type of Christ, who perfectly obeyed the Father's will and thus secured salvation for humanity.<p><b>and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure</b><br>This part of the verse highlights the value of wisdom and discernment. In the biblical context, wisdom is often associated with the fear of the Lord (<a href="/proverbs/9-10.htm">Proverbs 9:10</a>) and the ability to navigate life's complexities. The "right time and procedure" suggests an understanding of when and how to act, which is a recurring theme in wisdom literature. Ecclesiastes frequently addresses the unpredictability of life and the need for discernment (<a href="/ecclesiastes/3.htm">Ecclesiastes 3:1-8</a>). Culturally, the ancient world placed high value on wisdom as a means to achieve success and avoid pitfalls. This wisdom is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is described as the wisdom of God (<a href="/1_corinthians/1-24.htm">1 Corinthians 1:24</a>), embodying perfect timing and action in His earthly ministry.<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 king of Israel known for his wisdom, wealth, and writings. His reflections in Ecclesiastes offer insights into the human condition and the pursuit of meaning.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/i/israel.htm">Israel</a></b><br>The nation to which Solomon belonged and over which he reigned. The cultural and religious context of Israel provides the backdrop for understanding the wisdom literature of the Old Testament.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/w/wisdom_literature.htm">Wisdom Literature</a></b><br>Ecclesiastes is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes books like Proverbs and Job. These writings focus on practical and philosophical insights into life and faith.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/o/obedience_and_safety.htm">Obedience and Safety</a></b><br>Obedience to God's commands is portrayed as a path to safety and protection. In a world filled with uncertainties, adhering to divine instructions provides a secure foundation.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/w/wisdom_in_timing_and_procedure.htm">Wisdom in Timing and Procedure</a></b><br>A wise heart discerns the appropriate time and method for actions. This discernment is crucial in navigating life's complexities and making decisions that align with God's will.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_wisdom_in_leadership.htm">The Role of Wisdom in Leadership</a></b><br>Solomon's wisdom as a leader underscores the importance of wisdom in governance and decision-making. Leaders are called to seek divine wisdom to guide their actions and policies.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/practical_wisdom_for_daily_life.htm">Practical Wisdom for Daily Life</a></b><br>The principles of wisdom and obedience are not just for leaders but for everyone. Applying these principles in daily life leads to harmony and fulfillment.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/s/seeking_god's_guidance.htm">Seeking God's Guidance</a></b><br>Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance in all aspects of life, trusting that He provides wisdom generously to those who ask.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_ecclesiastes_8.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Ecclesiastes 8</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/is_there_evidence_of_wisdom_in_ecclesiastes.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 states that the wise person knows when and how to act; is there archaeological or historical evidence supporting such definite wisdom teachings in this era? </a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_faith_aid_healing.htm">What does the Bible teach about managing anger?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_speech.htm">What does the Bible teach about controlling speech?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_the_holy_spirit's_role_today.htm">What is the Holy Spirit's role today?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/ecclesiastes/8.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 5.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Whoso keepeth the commandment shall feel no evil thing</span>. This is an encouragement to obedience to royal authority (comp. <a href="/proverbs/24-21.htm">Proverbs 24:21, 22</a>; <a href="/romans/13-3.htm">Romans 13:3</a>). The context plainly shows that it is not God's commandment that is spoken of (though, of course, the maxim would be very true in this case), but the king's. Nor is it necessarily a servile and unreasoning obedience that is enjoined. Koheleth is dealing with generals. Such cases as that of Daniel and the three children, where obedience would have been sinful, are not here taken into consideration. "Shall feel," literally, "shall know," <span class="accented">i</span>.<span class="accented">e</span>. experience no physical evil. Quiet submission to the powers that be guarantees a peaceful and happy life. Ginsburg and others translate, "knoweth not an evil word," <span class="accented">i</span>.<span class="accented">e</span>. is saved from abuse and reproach, which seems somewhat meager, though the Septuagint gives, <span class="greek">Οὐ γνώσεται ῤῆμα πονηρόν</span>. The Vulgate is better, <span class="accented">Non experietur quidquam malt<span class="cmt_word"></span>. And a wise man's heart discerneth</span> (<span class="accented">knoweth</span>) <span class="accented"><span class="cmt_word"></span>both time and judgment.</span> The verb is the same in both clauses, and ought to have been so translated. The "heart" includes the moral as well as the intellectual faculties; and the maxim says that the wise man bears oppression and remains unexcited even in evil days, because he is convinced that there is a time of judgment coming when all will be righted (<a href="/ecclesiastes/12-14.htm">Ecclesiastes 12:14</a>). The certainty of retributive justice is so strong in his mind that he does not resort to rebellion in order to rectify matters, but possesses his soul in patience, leaving the correction of abuses in God's hands. Septuagint, "The wise man's heart knoweth the time of judgment," making a hendiadys of the two terms. The Vulgate has <span class="accented">tempus et responsionem</span>, "time and answer." <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/ecclesiastes/8-5.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">Whoever keeps</span><br /><span class="heb">שׁוֹמֵ֣ר</span> <span class="translit">(šō·w·mêr)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular construct<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_8104.htm">Strong's 8104: </a> </span><span class="str2">To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to</span><br /><br /><span class="word">his command</span><br /><span class="heb">מִצְוָ֔ה</span> <span class="translit">(miṣ·wāh)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - feminine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4687.htm">Strong's 4687: </a> </span><span class="str2">Commandment</span><br /><br /><span class="word">will come to</span><br /><span class="heb">יֵדַ֖ע</span> <span class="translit">(yê·ḏa‘)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3045.htm">Strong's 3045: </a> </span><span class="str2">To know</span><br /><br /><span class="word">no</span><br /><span class="heb">לֹ֥א</span> <span class="translit">(lō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb - Negative particle<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3808.htm">Strong's 3808: </a> </span><span class="str2">Not, no</span><br /><br /><span class="word">harm,</span><br /><span class="heb">רָ֑ע</span> <span class="translit">(rā‘)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_7451.htm">Strong's 7451: </a> </span><span class="str2">Bad, evil</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and a wise</span><br /><span class="heb">חָכָֽם׃</span> <span class="translit">(ḥā·ḵām)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_2450.htm">Strong's 2450: </a> </span><span class="str2">Wise</span><br /><br /><span class="word">heart</span><br /><span class="heb">לֵ֥ב</span> <span class="translit">(lêḇ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3820.htm">Strong's 3820: </a> </span><span class="str2">The heart, the feelings, the will, the intellect, centre</span><br /><br /><span class="word">knows</span><br /><span class="heb">יֵדַ֖ע</span> <span class="translit">(yê·ḏa‘)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_3045.htm">Strong's 3045: </a> </span><span class="str2">To know</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the right time</span><br /><span class="heb">וְעֵ֣ת</span> <span class="translit">(wə·‘êṯ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - common singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_6256.htm">Strong's 6256: </a> </span><span class="str2">Time, now, when</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and procedure.</span><br /><span class="heb">וּמִשְׁפָּ֔ט</span> <span class="translit">(ū·miš·pāṭ)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/hebrew/strongs_4941.htm">Strong's 4941: </a> </span><span class="str2">A verdict, a sentence, formal decree, divine law, penalty, justice, privilege, style</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:5 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-5.htm">OT Poetry: Ecclesiastes 8:5 Whoever keeps the commandment shall not come (Ecclesiast. Ec Ecc Eccles.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-4.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 8:4"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 8:4" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/ecclesiastes/8-6.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Ecclesiastes 8:6"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Ecclesiastes 8:6" /></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>