Ecclesiastes, Chapter 7 - Reflections on the Complexities of Life

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

It's often said that it's better to attend a funeral than go to a party. But why would that be? Well, in times of mourning, people gather to comfort each other, as we see in the story of Martha and Mary after their brother Lazarus died. These gatherings spark profound conversations about life, death, and what comes after, providing us valuable insights and lessons.

Compare this with a raucous party, where the atmosphere is loud, indulgent, and sometimes even dismissive of deeper truths. At parties, people might mock the very things that matter most in life—faith, death, and the afterlife.

Remember, everyone eventually faces the loss of loved ones and their own mortality. Funerals and mourning periods bring this reality into sharp focus. They prompt us to reflect on our own lives and how fleeting they are. In this way, acknowledging death isn't just sobering—it can be incredibly enlightening.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

It's often more beneficial to accept criticism from a wise person, even if it's tough to hear and initially painful. In the end, such feedback leads to personal growth and shows true wisdom on both sides – the giver and the receiver. Contrast this with the fleeting pleasure of listening to foolish chatter or songs. These might be entertaining in the moment, but ultimately, they lack substance and value. So, next time, embrace the constructive criticism and skip the empty noise.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

Oppression, whether experienced or observed, can drive even the wisest person to the brink of madness. It stirs up deep indignation, clouds judgment, and often leads to hasty, ill-considered reactions. This can be seen in the biblical Psalms, where individuals struggle to reconcile the sight of injustice with their faith.

But oppression doesn’t just affect the oppressed—it corrupts those who wield it. When a person resorts to oppressive measures, their wisdom takes a back seat, and they start acting irrationally, ultimately bringing a lot of grief upon themselves. Some interpret this as wealth or influence gained through unethical means, highlighting how such actions can erode one's moral compass.

Additionally, bribes play a significant role here. They can blind even the most discerning judges, distort their decisions, and twist the course of justice. Essentially, bribery undermines the integrity of those who are otherwise wise and generous, rendering their virtues ineffective.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

"Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof." This well-known adage suggests that outcomes can be more valuable than initial efforts—provided the result is good. For those who engage in wrongdoing, the initial stages might seem sweet, but ultimately, they lead to bitterness and downfall. In contrast, the culmination of virtuous actions and lives, like that of Job, proves to be far more rewarding.

Patience, a quality born of the human spirit and deemed invaluable in life's trials, is highlighted as superior to pride. The patient among us grow more humble, meek, and composed, securing favor and grace. On the other hand, pride—in oneself, in wealth, or in self-perceived righteousness—is detested. True virtue lies not in immediate gratification or self-worth, but in enduring patience and humility.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

Wisdom paired with an inheritance offers great value. In fact, wisdom alone is invaluable—especially spiritual and divine wisdom, which surpasses any worldly possessions. While some interpret wisdom as knowledge of the law, it's the deeper wisdom of the Gospel and the mysteries of God that truly stand out. Experiencing this kind of wisdom is more precious than all earthly inheritances.

However, having wisdom along with an inheritance can be particularly beneficial. Wealth combined with wisdom earns respect and attention that wisdom alone might not garner. It also positions one better to contribute positively to society.

For those living in the present world—who experience the daily rise and set of the sun and bask in its light—there is significant advantage in being both wise and affluent. This combination not only benefits the individual but also provides them with a superior position to influence and assist others.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In reflecting on the intricacies of life, particularly when we find ourselves nostalgic for "the good old days" and frustrated with current circumstances, it's worth considering that everything unfolds according to a higher plan. This is not simply about how the world was created, but how it is governed through divine Providence. The essence of this viewpoint is that everything happens for a reason and fits beautifully into the larger picture, even if it doesn't always make sense to us at the moment.

Who among us can alter the course of natural events or divine will? Whether facing large-scale disasters like famine or individual hardships like illness or poverty, these are circumstances beyond human control. Complaining or resisting doesn't change the outcome; it's more constructive to accept and adapt to what's beyond our control.

This perspective can also be applied to individual traits or challenges. Think of congenital conditions like blindness or lameness, or even spiritual struggles where people might find themselves stuck in a rut of poor decisions or hardened attitudes. Without divine intervention or grace, these situations would remain unchanged. This line of thought has been echoed through various interpretations and religious teachings, suggesting that some aspects of life—be it physical conditions or moral paths—are as they are meant to be for a higher purpose.

Ultimately, it's about recognizing and respecting the overarching design, even if it seems "crooked" or flawed to us. Trust in the wisdom that shapes our world and lives, rather than fruitlessly trying to straighten what is, in its own way, already perfectly formed.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In reflecting on my life, filled with ups and downs, I've seen it all: the good times and the bad. Observing how good people face hardship and bad folks thrive can make anyone question the fairness of life.

I've noticed good people who suffer despite their righteousness. Though their ultimate spiritual destiny is secure, they may face significant challenges and even lose their reputation, wealth, or lives, like Abel or Naboth did. This isn't always the case, but it happens enough to be noteworthy.

On the flip side, wicked individuals often lead long lives despite their misdeeds. It's perplexing but not uncommon, a point even Job pondered. Life, it seems, isn't always fair in how it doles out fortune and misfortune.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

It's wise to heed this advice: avoid extremes in all aspects of life. Don't be overly righteous or overly wicked, overly wise or overly foolish. Embrace a balanced path and hold onto it.

At the same time, maintain a healthy respect for God. Keep in mind both parts of the advice: avoiding excessive wickedness, which can lead to a premature death, and avoiding being overly righteous or wise.

Those who fear God will find their way through all of these extremes. The fear of God is the starting point of wisdom and offers the best protection against falling into these traps. A person who fears God remains humble, avoids self-righteousness, and steers clear of foolishness and sin.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

Don't worry about every little thing people say about you. Even the wisest among us sometimes say foolish things, so it's best not to get caught up in all the chatter. Don't go out of your way to find out what others are saying about you; it’s often more trouble than it's worth. If you hear something negative, let it slide. Pretending you didn't hear it can save you a lot of stress and drama.

Holding onto every word, especially those of detractors and gossipers, will only lead to unnecessary frustration. This isn't just about ignoring malicious talk from bad apples; even good people can make offhand comments they don't really mean. An offhand remark, particularly if it’s from someone close to you like an employee or someone you've helped, can sting a lot more. But trying to get back at them will only make things worse. So, for your own peace of mind, let these things roll off your back.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

Every now and then, we all have those moments of self-awareness where our conscience, much like an ever-watchful guardian, reminds us of our own missteps, mistakes, and indiscretions that we often commit.

Simply put, remember that you yourself have, at times, spoken ill of others. Whether through a quick thought, an angry outburst, or a harsh word in a moment of frustration, you've likely wished someone ill or called them names only to later regret your words when cooler heads prevailed or when you saw the situation more clearly.

With this in mind, it's important to recognize that others have similar flaws and moments of weakness. When someone wrongs you, think about your own missteps and show a bit of compassion. After all, if you want others to forgive you when you misspeak or lose your temper, it only makes sense to extend the same courtesy to them. As they say, treat others how you wish to be treated. This age-old advice not only smooths over personal conflicts but also reminds us to be a bit kinder in a world that often needs more understanding and forgiveness.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In all my explorations of wisdom, I've tested everything I've discussed up to now — the futility of earthly knowledge, the fleeting nature of pleasure, power, and wealth, and the valuable advice on enduring challenges patiently whether they come from God or other people. Using the wisdom that God has granted me, I've examined these things and found them to hold true. So, I pass them on to you, acknowledging that even with all my insights, I'm still far from perfect.

I once resolved to become wise, reaching the heights of understanding if I could. I pursued every possible means to grasp the entirety of God's works in creation, to understand the purpose and beauty in all things, to make sense of His various ways with humanity, and to unravel the mysteries of redemption and salvation. Yet, the more I learned, the more I realized how much I didn't know. It became clear that perfect wisdom is beyond human reach in this lifetime. While some interpretations limit this to the wisdom found in the law, it's evident that this should be taken in a broader sense.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In a solemn reflection, the preacher finds a harsh truth— a harlot, he claims, can be more painful than death itself. This revelation stems from his own experiences, and he shares it as a cautionary note for others.

As recorded in Ecclesiastes, the preacher's findings underline the rarity of encountering an upstanding individual, likening it to finding one good man among a thousand. He invokes his title and role, emphasizing his message's gravity and authenticity. This also hints at his personal repentance, suggesting a transformation and his return to the fold of the righteous.

The preacher doesn't just look inward at his own sins, trying to tally them up, nor is he solely preoccupied with the deeds of the righteous or the wicked. Instead, he considers his extensive circle of acquaintances, scrutinizing women one by one, including his numerous wives and concubines. His aim? To deliver a well-rounded assessment of their character and behaviors.

What follows, he assures, is the result of this meticulous examination.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

It's often said that it's better to attend a funeral than go to a party. But why would that be? Well, in times of mourning, people gather to comfort each other, as we see in the story of Martha and Mary after their brother Lazarus died. These gatherings spark profound conversations about life, death, and what comes after, providing us valuable insights and lessons.

Compare this with a raucous party, where the atmosphere is loud, indulgent, and sometimes even dismissive of deeper truths. At parties, people might mock the very things that matter most in life—faith, death, and the afterlife.

Remember, everyone eventually faces the loss of loved ones and their own mortality. Funerals and mourning periods bring this reality into sharp focus. They prompt us to reflect on our own lives and how fleeting they are. In this way, acknowledging death isn't just sobering—it can be incredibly enlightening.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

It's often more beneficial to accept criticism from a wise person, even if it's tough to hear and initially painful. In the end, such feedback leads to personal growth and shows true wisdom on both sides – the giver and the receiver. Contrast this with the fleeting pleasure of listening to foolish chatter or songs. These might be entertaining in the moment, but ultimately, they lack substance and value. So, next time, embrace the constructive criticism and skip the empty noise.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

Oppression, whether experienced or observed, can drive even the wisest person to the brink of madness. It stirs up deep indignation, clouds judgment, and often leads to hasty, ill-considered reactions. This can be seen in the biblical Psalms, where individuals struggle to reconcile the sight of injustice with their faith.

But oppression doesn’t just affect the oppressed—it corrupts those who wield it. When a person resorts to oppressive measures, their wisdom takes a back seat, and they start acting irrationally, ultimately bringing a lot of grief upon themselves. Some interpret this as wealth or influence gained through unethical means, highlighting how such actions can erode one's moral compass.

Additionally, bribes play a significant role here. They can blind even the most discerning judges, distort their decisions, and twist the course of justice. Essentially, bribery undermines the integrity of those who are otherwise wise and generous, rendering their virtues ineffective.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

"Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof." This well-known adage suggests that outcomes can be more valuable than initial efforts—provided the result is good. For those who engage in wrongdoing, the initial stages might seem sweet, but ultimately, they lead to bitterness and downfall. In contrast, the culmination of virtuous actions and lives, like that of Job, proves to be far more rewarding.

Patience, a quality born of the human spirit and deemed invaluable in life's trials, is highlighted as superior to pride. The patient among us grow more humble, meek, and composed, securing favor and grace. On the other hand, pride—in oneself, in wealth, or in self-perceived righteousness—is detested. True virtue lies not in immediate gratification or self-worth, but in enduring patience and humility.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

Wisdom paired with an inheritance offers great value. In fact, wisdom alone is invaluable—especially spiritual and divine wisdom, which surpasses any worldly possessions. While some interpret wisdom as knowledge of the law, it's the deeper wisdom of the Gospel and the mysteries of God that truly stand out. Experiencing this kind of wisdom is more precious than all earthly inheritances.

However, having wisdom along with an inheritance can be particularly beneficial. Wealth combined with wisdom earns respect and attention that wisdom alone might not garner. It also positions one better to contribute positively to society.

For those living in the present world—who experience the daily rise and set of the sun and bask in its light—there is significant advantage in being both wise and affluent. This combination not only benefits the individual but also provides them with a superior position to influence and assist others.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In reflecting on the intricacies of life, particularly when we find ourselves nostalgic for "the good old days" and frustrated with current circumstances, it's worth considering that everything unfolds according to a higher plan. This is not simply about how the world was created, but how it is governed through divine Providence. The essence of this viewpoint is that everything happens for a reason and fits beautifully into the larger picture, even if it doesn't always make sense to us at the moment.

Who among us can alter the course of natural events or divine will? Whether facing large-scale disasters like famine or individual hardships like illness or poverty, these are circumstances beyond human control. Complaining or resisting doesn't change the outcome; it's more constructive to accept and adapt to what's beyond our control.

This perspective can also be applied to individual traits or challenges. Think of congenital conditions like blindness or lameness, or even spiritual struggles where people might find themselves stuck in a rut of poor decisions or hardened attitudes. Without divine intervention or grace, these situations would remain unchanged. This line of thought has been echoed through various interpretations and religious teachings, suggesting that some aspects of life—be it physical conditions or moral paths—are as they are meant to be for a higher purpose.

Ultimately, it's about recognizing and respecting the overarching design, even if it seems "crooked" or flawed to us. Trust in the wisdom that shapes our world and lives, rather than fruitlessly trying to straighten what is, in its own way, already perfectly formed.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In reflecting on my life, filled with ups and downs, I've seen it all: the good times and the bad. Observing how good people face hardship and bad folks thrive can make anyone question the fairness of life.

I've noticed good people who suffer despite their righteousness. Though their ultimate spiritual destiny is secure, they may face significant challenges and even lose their reputation, wealth, or lives, like Abel or Naboth did. This isn't always the case, but it happens enough to be noteworthy.

On the flip side, wicked individuals often lead long lives despite their misdeeds. It's perplexing but not uncommon, a point even Job pondered. Life, it seems, isn't always fair in how it doles out fortune and misfortune.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

It's wise to heed this advice: avoid extremes in all aspects of life. Don't be overly righteous or overly wicked, overly wise or overly foolish. Embrace a balanced path and hold onto it.

At the same time, maintain a healthy respect for God. Keep in mind both parts of the advice: avoiding excessive wickedness, which can lead to a premature death, and avoiding being overly righteous or wise.

Those who fear God will find their way through all of these extremes. The fear of God is the starting point of wisdom and offers the best protection against falling into these traps. A person who fears God remains humble, avoids self-righteousness, and steers clear of foolishness and sin.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

Don't worry about every little thing people say about you. Even the wisest among us sometimes say foolish things, so it's best not to get caught up in all the chatter. Don't go out of your way to find out what others are saying about you; it’s often more trouble than it's worth. If you hear something negative, let it slide. Pretending you didn't hear it can save you a lot of stress and drama.

Holding onto every word, especially those of detractors and gossipers, will only lead to unnecessary frustration. This isn't just about ignoring malicious talk from bad apples; even good people can make offhand comments they don't really mean. An offhand remark, particularly if it’s from someone close to you like an employee or someone you've helped, can sting a lot more. But trying to get back at them will only make things worse. So, for your own peace of mind, let these things roll off your back.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

Every now and then, we all have those moments of self-awareness where our conscience, much like an ever-watchful guardian, reminds us of our own missteps, mistakes, and indiscretions that we often commit.

Simply put, remember that you yourself have, at times, spoken ill of others. Whether through a quick thought, an angry outburst, or a harsh word in a moment of frustration, you've likely wished someone ill or called them names only to later regret your words when cooler heads prevailed or when you saw the situation more clearly.

With this in mind, it's important to recognize that others have similar flaws and moments of weakness. When someone wrongs you, think about your own missteps and show a bit of compassion. After all, if you want others to forgive you when you misspeak or lose your temper, it only makes sense to extend the same courtesy to them. As they say, treat others how you wish to be treated. This age-old advice not only smooths over personal conflicts but also reminds us to be a bit kinder in a world that often needs more understanding and forgiveness.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In all my explorations of wisdom, I've tested everything I've discussed up to now — the futility of earthly knowledge, the fleeting nature of pleasure, power, and wealth, and the valuable advice on enduring challenges patiently whether they come from God or other people. Using the wisdom that God has granted me, I've examined these things and found them to hold true. So, I pass them on to you, acknowledging that even with all my insights, I'm still far from perfect.

I once resolved to become wise, reaching the heights of understanding if I could. I pursued every possible means to grasp the entirety of God's works in creation, to understand the purpose and beauty in all things, to make sense of His various ways with humanity, and to unravel the mysteries of redemption and salvation. Yet, the more I learned, the more I realized how much I didn't know. It became clear that perfect wisdom is beyond human reach in this lifetime. While some interpretations limit this to the wisdom found in the law, it's evident that this should be taken in a broader sense.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In a solemn reflection, the preacher finds a harsh truth— a harlot, he claims, can be more painful than death itself. This revelation stems from his own experiences, and he shares it as a cautionary note for others.

As recorded in Ecclesiastes, the preacher's findings underline the rarity of encountering an upstanding individual, likening it to finding one good man among a thousand. He invokes his title and role, emphasizing his message's gravity and authenticity. This also hints at his personal repentance, suggesting a transformation and his return to the fold of the righteous.

The preacher doesn't just look inward at his own sins, trying to tally them up, nor is he solely preoccupied with the deeds of the righteous or the wicked. Instead, he considers his extensive circle of acquaintances, scrutinizing women one by one, including his numerous wives and concubines. His aim? To deliver a well-rounded assessment of their character and behaviors.

What follows, he assures, is the result of this meticulous examination.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible