Ecclesiastes 6:2

Ecclesiastes 6:2 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

God gives a man riches, wealth, and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires; but God does not allow him to enjoy them. Instead, a stranger will enjoy them. This is futile and a grievous affliction.

King James Version KJV

A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger eateth it: this is vanity, and it is an evil disease.

American Standard Version ASV

a man to whom God giveth riches, wealth, and honor, so that he lacketh nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but an alien eateth it; this is vanity, and it is an evil disease.

Bible in Basic English BBE

A man to whom God gives money, wealth, and honour so that he has all his desires but God does not give him the power to have joy of it, and a strange man takes it. This is to no purpose and an evil disease.

Free Bible Version FBV

God gives wealth, possessions, and honor to someone. They have everything they want. But God doesn't let them enjoy what they have. Instead somebody else does! This is hard to fathom, and is truly evil.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

A man to whom God hath giuen riches and treasures and honour, and he wanteth nothing for his soule of all that it desireth: but God giueth him not power to eate thereof, but a strange man shall eate it vp: this is vanitie, and this is an euill sicknesse.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

A man to whom God giveth wealth, and riches, and honour, and there is no lack to his soul of all that he desireth, and God giveth him not power to eat of it, but a stranger eateth it; this [is] vanity, and it [is] an evil disease.

World English Bible WEB

a man to whom God gives riches, wealth, and honor, so that he lacks nothing for his soul of all that he desires, yet God gives him no power to eat of it, but an alien eats it. This is vanity, and it is an evil disease.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honor, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat of it, but a stranger eateth it: this is vanity, and it is an evil disease.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

A man to whom God hath given riches, and substance, and honour, and his soul wanteth nothing of all that he desireth: yet God doth not give him power to eat thereof, but a stranger shall eat it up. This is vanity and a great misery.

Translation for Translators T4T

God enables some people to get a lot of money and possessions and to be honored; they have everything [LIT] that they want. But God sometimes does not allow them to continue to enjoy those things. Someone else gets them and enjoys them. That seems senseless and unfair.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Ecclesiastes 6:2

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Ecclesiastes 6:2 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB אִ֣ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֣ר יִתֶּן ל֣/וֹ הָ/אֱלֹהִ֡ים עֹשֶׁר֩ וּ/נְכָסִ֨ים וְ/כָב֜וֹד וְֽ/אֵינֶ֨/נּוּ חָסֵ֥ר לְ/נַפְשׁ֣/וֹ מִ/כֹּ֣ל אֲשֶׁר יִתְאַוֶּ֗ה וְ/לֹֽא יַשְׁלִיטֶ֤/נּוּ הָֽ/אֱלֹהִים֙ לֶ/אֱכֹ֣ל מִמֶּ֔/נּוּ כִּ֛י אִ֥ישׁ נָכְרִ֖י יֹֽאכֲלֶ֑/נּוּ זֶ֥ה הֶ֛בֶל וָ/חֳלִ֥י רָ֖ע הֽוּא

אִ֣ישׁ ʼîysh H376 man N-ms

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

יִתֶּן nâthan H5414 to give V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

ל֣/וֹ Prep | Suff

הָ/אֱלֹהִ֡ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 God Art | N-mp

עֹשֶׁר֩ ʻôsher H6239 riches N-ms

וּ/נְכָסִ֨ים nekeç H5233 wealth Conj | N-mp

וְ/כָב֜וֹד kâbôwd H3519 glory Conj | N-cs

וְֽ/אֵינֶ֨/נּוּ ʼayin H369 nothing Conj | Part | Suff

חָסֵ֥ר châçêr H2638 lacking Adj

לְ/נַפְשׁ֣/וֹ nephesh H5315 soul Prep | N-cs | Suff

מִ/כֹּ֣ל kôl H3605 all Prep | N-ms

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

יִתְאַוֶּ֗ה ʼâvâh H183 to desire V-Hithpael-Imperf-3ms

וְ/לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

יַשְׁלִיטֶ֤/נּוּ shâlaṭ H7980 to domineer V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms | Suff

הָֽ/אֱלֹהִים֙ ʼĕlôhîym H430 God Art | N-mp

לֶ/אֱכֹ֣ל ʼâkal H398 to eat Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

מִמֶּ֔/נּוּ min H4480 from Prep | Suff

כִּ֛י kîy H3588 for Conj

אִ֥ישׁ ʼîysh H376 man N-ms

נָכְרִ֖י nokrîy H5237 foreign Adj

יֹֽאכֲלֶ֑/נּוּ ʼâkal H398 to eat V-Qal-Imperf-3ms | Suff

זֶ֥ה zeh H2088 this Pron

הֶ֛בֶל hebel H1892 vanity N-ms

וָ/חֳלִ֥י chŏlîy H2483 sickness Conj | N-ms

רָ֖ע raʻ H7451 bad Adj

הֽוּא hûwʼ H1931 he/she/it Pron

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Ecclesiastes 6:2

אִ֣ישׁ ʼîysh H376 "man" N-ms

The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.

Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)

Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.

אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

יִתֶּן nâthan H5414 "to give" V-Qal-Imperf-3ms

This word means to give, put, or set something, with a wide range of applications. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, describing God's actions and human interactions. The word is used to convey giving, selling, or exchanging something.

Definition: : give/deliver/send/produce 1) to give, put, set 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to give, bestow, grant, permit, ascribe, employ, devote, consecrate, dedicate, pay wages, sell, exchange, lend, commit, entrust, give over, deliver up, yield produce, occasion, produce, requite to, report, mention, utter, stretch out, extend 1a2) to put, set, put on, put upon, set, appoint, assign, designate 1a3) to make, constitute 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be given, be bestowed, be provided, be entrusted to, be granted to, be permitted, be issued, be published, be uttered, be assigned 1b2) to be set, be put, be made, be inflicted 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be given, be bestowed, be given up, be delivered up 1c2) to be put upon

Usage: Occurs in 1816 OT verses. KJV: add, apply, appoint, ascribe, assign, [idiom] avenge, [idiom] be (healed), bestow, bring (forth, hither), cast, cause, charge, come, commit, consider, count, [phrase] cry, deliver (up), direct, distribute, do, [idiom] doubtless, [idiom] without fail, fasten, frame, [idiom] get, give (forth, over, up), grant, hang (up), [idiom] have, [idiom] indeed, lay (unto charge, up), (give) leave, lend, let (out), [phrase] lie, lift up, make, [phrase] O that, occupy, offer, ordain, pay, perform, place, pour, print, [idiom] pull, put (forth), recompense, render, requite, restore, send (out), set (forth), shew, shoot forth (up), [phrase] sing, [phrase] slander, strike, (sub-) mit, suffer, [idiom] surely, [idiom] take, thrust, trade, turn, utter, [phrase] weep, [phrase] willingly, [phrase] withdraw, [phrase] would (to) God, yield. See also: Genesis 1:17; Genesis 40:21; Exodus 30:12.

ל֣/וֹ "" Prep | Suff

הָ/אֱלֹהִ֡ים ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" Art | N-mp

The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.

Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.

עֹשֶׁר֩ ʻôsher H6239 "riches" N-ms

This Hebrew word means wealth or riches, like the treasures King Solomon had in 1 Kings 10:23. It refers to an abundance of valuable things. The KJV Bible uses it to describe riches and wealth.

Definition: wealth, riches

Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] far (richer), riches. See also: Genesis 31:16; Proverbs 3:16; Psalms 49:7.

וּ/נְכָסִ֨ים nekeç H5233 "wealth" Conj | N-mp

Wealth or treasure, similar to the riches of the wise men in Matthew 2. This word refers to riches or treasures, often used to describe the wealth of kings or nations. It is translated as riches or wealth in the KJV.

Definition: riches, treasures Aramaic equivalent: ne.khas (נְכַס "wealth" H5232)

Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: riches, wealth. See also: Joshua 22:8; 2 Chronicles 1:12; Ecclesiastes 6:2.

וְ/כָב֜וֹד kâbôwd H3519 "glory" Conj | N-cs

Glory refers to great honor or splendor, often used to describe God's majesty, as in Psalm 138:5 where David praises God's glorious name. It can also refer to wealth or abundance, like in Genesis 31:1 where Jacob's wealth is described.

Definition: 1) glory, honour, glorious, abundance 1a) abundance, riches 1b) honour, splendour, glory 1c) honour, dignity 1d) honour, reputation 1e) honour, reverence, glory 1f) glory

Usage: Occurs in 189 OT verses. KJV: glorious(-ly), glory, honour(-able). See also: Genesis 31:1; Psalms 113:4; Psalms 3:4.

וְֽ/אֵינֶ֨/נּוּ ʼayin H369 "nothing" Conj | Part | Suff

This word means nothing or not, often used to indicate the absence of something, as in Genesis 1:2 where the earth was without form. It emphasizes the idea of something lacking or non-existent.

Definition: 1) nothing, not, nought n 1a) nothing, nought neg 1b) not 1c) to have not (of possession) adv 1d) without w/prep 1e) for lack of

Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: else, except, fail, (father-) less, be gone, in(-curable), neither, never, no (where), none, nor, (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un(-searchable), well-nigh, without. Compare H370 (אַיִן). See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 14:27; 1 Kings 15:22.

חָסֵ֥ר châçêr H2638 "lacking" Adj

Being in need or lacking something is what this word means. It describes a state of poverty or want, often used to describe people who are struggling. The Bible talks about lack and need in books like Isaiah and Jeremiah.

Definition: in need of, lacking, needy, in want of

Usage: Occurs in 19 OT verses. KJV: destitute, fail, lack, have need, void, want. See also: 1 Samuel 21:16; Proverbs 10:21; Proverbs 6:32.

לְ/נַפְשׁ֣/וֹ nephesh H5315 "soul" Prep | N-cs | Suff

The Hebrew word for soul or living being, used in the Bible to describe the essence of a person or animal. It encompasses the ideas of life, breath, and vitality, and is translated as 'soul' or 'creature' in the KJV. This word is central to biblical concepts of humanity and existence.

Definition: 1) soul, self, life, creature, person, appetite, mind, living being, desire, emotion, passion 1a) that which breathes, the breathing substance or being, soul, the inner being of man 1b) living being 1c) living being (with life in the blood) 1d) the man himself, self, person or individual 1e) seat of the appetites 1f) seat of emotions and passions 1g) activity of mind 1g1) uncertain 1h) activity of the will 1h1) uncertain 1i) activity of the character 1i1) uncertain

Usage: Occurs in 683 OT verses. KJV: any, appetite, beast, body, breath, creature, [idiom] dead(-ly), desire, [idiom] (dis-) contented, [idiom] fish, ghost, [phrase] greedy, he, heart(-y), (hath, [idiom] jeopardy of) life ([idiom] in jeopardy), lust, man, me, mind, mortally, one, own, person, pleasure, (her-, him-, my-, thy-) self, them (your) -selves, [phrase] slay, soul, [phrase] tablet, they, thing, ([idiom] she) will, [idiom] would have it. See also: Genesis 1:20; Leviticus 26:43; Judges 18:25.

מִ/כֹּ֣ל kôl H3605 "all" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word for 'all' or 'everything' is used throughout the Bible, like in Genesis 1:31, where God sees all He has made as very good. It encompasses the entirety of something, whether people, things, or situations.

Definition: 1) all, the whole 1a) all, the whole of 1b) any, each, every, anything 1c) totality, everything Aramaic equivalent: kol (כֹּל "all" H3606)

Usage: Occurs in 4242 OT verses. KJV: (in) all (manner, (ye)), altogether, any (manner), enough, every (one, place, thing), howsoever, as many as, (no-) thing, ought, whatsoever, (the) whole, whoso(-ever). See also: Genesis 1:21; Genesis 17:10; Genesis 41:40.

אֲשֶׁר ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

יִתְאַוֶּ֗ה ʼâvâh H183 "to desire" V-Hithpael-Imperf-3ms

To desire means to strongly wish for something, and can be used to describe physical or emotional longings. This word is used in the Bible to describe feelings of coveting or lusting after something.

Definition: 1) desire, incline, covet, wait longingly, wish, sigh, want, be greedy, prefer 1a) (Piel) to desire, crave (food and drink) 1b) (Hithpael) to desire, long for, lust after (of bodily appetites)

Usage: Occurs in 25 OT verses. KJV: covet, (greatly) desire, be desirous, long, lust (after). See also: Numbers 11:4; Psalms 132:13; Psalms 45:12.

וְ/לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

יַשְׁלִיטֶ֤/נּוּ shâlaṭ H7980 "to domineer" V-Hiphil-Imperf-3ms | Suff

To shalat means to have power or control over something, like dominating or ruling. It can also imply giving someone power or permission to act.

Definition: 1) to domineer, exercise power over, dominate, have mastery, be master, lord it over 1a) (Qal) to domineer, lord it over, become master 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to give power of 1b2) to get mastery of Aramaic equivalent: she.let (שְׁלֵט "to rule" H7981)

Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: (bear, have) rule, have dominion, give (have) power. See also: Nehemiah 5:15; Ecclesiastes 2:19; Psalms 119:133.

הָֽ/אֱלֹהִים֙ ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" Art | N-mp

Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.

לֶ/אֱכֹ֣ל ʼâkal H398 "to eat" Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a

This word means to eat or devour, and it's used in many stories, including when Jesus fed the 5000 with fish and bread in the book of Matthew. It's about taking in nourishment and being satisfied.

Definition: 1) to eat, devour, burn up, feed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to eat (human subject) 1a2) to eat, devour (of beasts and birds) 1a3) to devour, consume (of fire) 1a4) to devour, slay (of sword) 1a5) to devour, consume, destroy (inanimate subjects - ie, pestilence, drought) 1a6) to devour (of oppression) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be eaten (by men) 1b2) to be devoured, consumed (of fire) 1b3) to be wasted, destroyed (of flesh) 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to cause to eat, feed with 1c2) to cause to devour 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to feed 1d2) to cause to eat 1e) (Piel) 1e1) consume Aramaic equivalent: a.khal (אֲכַל "to devour" H0399)

Usage: Occurs in 703 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, burn up, consume, devour(-er, up), dine, eat(-er, up), feed (with), food, [idiom] freely, [idiom] in...wise(-deed, plenty), (lay) meat, [idiom] quite. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 6:9; Numbers 24:8.

מִמֶּ֔/נּוּ min H4480 "from" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.

Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)

Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.

כִּ֛י kîy H3588 "for" Conj

A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.

Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.

אִ֥ישׁ ʼîysh H376 "man" N-ms

נָכְרִ֖י nokrîy H5237 "foreign" Adj

This Hebrew word describes something or someone foreign or unfamiliar, including people, women, or things. It can also mean wonderful or outlandish. In the Bible, it is often translated as alien or foreigner.

Definition: 1) foreign, alien 1a) foreign 1b) foreigner (subst) 1c) foreign woman, harlot 1d) unknown, unfamiliar (fig.)

Usage: Occurs in 45 OT verses. KJV: alien, foreigner, outlandish, strange(-r, woman). See also: Genesis 31:15; Ezra 10:17; Psalms 69:9.

יֹֽאכֲלֶ֑/נּוּ ʼâkal H398 "to eat" V-Qal-Imperf-3ms | Suff

This word means to eat or devour, and it's used in many stories, including when Jesus fed the 5000 with fish and bread in the book of Matthew. It's about taking in nourishment and being satisfied.

זֶ֥ה zeh H2088 "this" Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning this or that, used to point out a specific person or thing. It appears in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms, to indicate something specific. The KJV translates it as he, here, or it.

Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, another, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how

Usage: Occurs in 1061 OT verses. KJV: he, [idiom] hence, [idiom] here, it(-self), [idiom] now, [idiom] of him, the one...the other, [idiom] than the other, ([idiom] out of) the (self) same, such (a one) that, these, this (hath, man), on this side...on that side, [idiom] thus, very, which. Compare H2063 (זֹאת), H2090 (זֹה), H2097 (זוֹ), H2098 (זוּ). See also: Genesis 5:1; Exodus 10:17; Numbers 14:16.

הֶ֛בֶל hebel H1892 "vanity" N-ms

Hebel means emptiness or vanity, describing something transitory and unsatisfactory, like a breath of air. It appears in the book of Ecclesiastes, where Solomon writes about life's fleeting nature. The KJV translates it as vanity or altogether.

Definition: 1) vapour, breath 1a) breath, vapour 1b) vanity (fig.) adv 2) vainly

Usage: Occurs in 64 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] altogether, vain, vanity. See also: Deuteronomy 32:21; Ecclesiastes 4:7; Psalms 31:7.

וָ/חֳלִ֥י chŏlîy H2483 "sickness" Conj | N-ms

This word describes sickness or disease in the Bible, often causing grief or anxiety. It is used in Proverbs and Isaiah to describe physical and emotional suffering.

Definition: sickness

Usage: Occurs in 22 OT verses. KJV: disease, grief, (is) sick(-ness). See also: Deuteronomy 7:15; 2 Chronicles 21:19; Psalms 41:4.

רָ֖ע raʻ H7451 "bad" Adj

Ra means bad or evil, referring to moral or natural harm. It describes adversity, affliction, or distress, and is often used to convey a sense of misery or injury.

Definition: : harmful adj 1) bad, evil 1a) bad, disagreeable, malignant 1b) bad, unpleasant, evil (giving pain, unhappiness, misery) 1c) evil, displeasing 1d) bad (of its kind-land, water, etc) 1e) bad (of value) 1f) worse than, worst (comparison) 1g) sad, unhappy 1h) evil (hurtful) 1i) bad, unkind (vicious in disposition) 1j) bad, evil, wicked (ethically) 1j1) in general, of persons, of thoughts 1j2) deeds, actions

Usage: Occurs in 623 OT verses. KJV: adversity, affliction, bad, calamity, [phrase] displease(-ure), distress, evil((-favouredness), man, thing), [phrase] exceedingly, [idiom] great, grief(-vous), harm, heavy, hurt(-ful), ill (favoured), [phrase] mark, mischief(-vous), misery, naught(-ty), noisome, [phrase] not please, sad(-ly), sore, sorrow, trouble, vex, wicked(-ly, -ness, one), worse(-st), wretchedness, wrong. (Incl. feminine raaah; as adjective or noun.). See also: Genesis 2:9; Judges 9:57; 2 Kings 21:6.

הֽוּא hûwʼ H1931 "he/she/it" Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.

Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)

Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.

Study Notes — Ecclesiastes 6:2

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Ecclesiastes 6:2 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Ecclesiastes 6:2
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ecclesiastes 6:2
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 6:2
Trapp's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 6:2
Ellicott's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 6:2
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 6:2
Whedon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 6:2
Sermons on Ecclesiastes 6:2

Context — The Futility of Life

1There is another evil I have seen under the sun, and it weighs heavily upon mankind:

2God gives a man riches, wealth, and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires; but God does not allow him to enjoy them. Instead, a stranger will enjoy them. This is futile and a grievous affliction.

3A man may father a hundred children and live for many years; yet no matter how long he lives, if he is unsatisfied with his prosperity and does not even receive a proper burial, I say that a stillborn child is better off than he. 4For a stillborn child enters in futility and departs in darkness, and his name is shrouded in obscurity.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Ecclesiastes 5:19	Furthermore, God has given riches and wealth to every man, and He has enabled him to enjoy them, to accept his lot, and to rejoice in his labor. This is a gift from God.
2	Psalms 17:14	from such men, O LORD, by Your hand— from men of the world whose portion is in this life. May You fill the bellies of Your treasured ones and satisfy their sons, so they leave their abundance to their children.
3	Psalms 73:7	From their prosperity proceeds iniquity; the imaginations of their hearts run wild.
4	1 Kings 3:13	Moreover, I will give you what you did not request—both riches and honor—so that during all your days no man in any kingdom will be your equal.
5	Lamentations 5:2	Our inheritance has been turned over to strangers, our houses to foreigners.
6	Job 21:9–15	Their homes are safe from fear; no rod of punishment from God is upon them. Their bulls breed without fail; their cows bear calves and do not miscarry. They send forth their little ones like a flock; their children skip about, singing to the tambourine and lyre and making merry at the sound of the flute. They spend their days in prosperity and go down to Sheol in peace. Yet they say to God: ‘Leave us alone! For we have no desire to know Your ways. Who is the Almighty, that we should serve Him, and what would we gain if we pray to Him?’
7	Luke 12:19–20	Then I will say to myself, “You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take it easy. Eat, drink, and be merry!”’ But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will own what you have accumulated?’
8	Daniel 5:18	As for you, O king, the Most High God gave your father Nebuchadnezzar sovereignty and greatness, glory and honor.
9	Psalms 39:6	Surely every man goes about like a phantom; surely he bustles in vain; he heaps up riches not knowing who will haul them away.
10	Hosea 7:9	Foreigners consume his strength, but he does not notice. Even his hair is streaked with gray, but he does not know.

Ecclesiastes 6:2 Summary

This verse is saying that sometimes God gives people a lot of wealth and possessions, but they are not able to enjoy them. This can be frustrating and feel like a waste. It's like having a big house, but not being able to live in it. The Bible is warning us that just having a lot of stuff doesn't guarantee happiness, as seen in Ecclesiastes 6:2. Instead, we should focus on our relationship with God and use what He has given us to honor Him, as encouraged in 1 Corinthians 10:31.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does God give someone wealth and riches if they can't enjoy them?

According to Ecclesiastes 6:2, God gives a person wealth and riches, but sometimes does not allow them to enjoy it, which can be a test of their faith and trust in Him, as seen in the story of Job in the book of Job 1:21.

What does it mean for a stranger to enjoy the riches God has given someone?

In the context of Ecclesiastes 6:2, a stranger enjoying the riches God has given someone could refer to the fact that the person's wealth and possessions may be passed down to others who do not appreciate or acknowledge God's provision, as warned in Deuteronomy 8:14.

Is it wrong to desire wealth and riches?

While it is not inherently wrong to desire wealth and riches, Ecclesiastes 6:2 warns against the futility of seeking happiness and fulfillment solely through material possessions, a concept also echoed in 1 Timothy 6:10.

How can I avoid the futility and grievous affliction mentioned in this verse?

To avoid the futility and affliction mentioned in Ecclesiastes 6:2, one must prioritize a personal relationship with God and seek to honor Him with their wealth and possessions, as encouraged in Matthew 6:33 and Proverbs 3:9-10.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I prioritize my wealth and possessions over my relationship with God, and how can I adjust my focus?
In what ways do I seek to enjoy the blessings God has given me, and am I doing so in a way that honors Him?
How can I cultivate a sense of gratitude and contentment with what God has provided for me, rather than constantly desiring more?
What does it mean for me to 'enjoy' the blessings God has given me, and how can I do so in a way that is pleasing to Him?

Gill's Exposition on Ecclesiastes 6:2

A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour,.... By "riches" may be meant gold and silver, things which a covetous man is never satisfied with; and by "wealth", cattle, with which farms

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ecclesiastes 6:2

A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger eateth it: this

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 6:2

Wealth; all sorts of riches, as gold and silver, cattle and lands, &c. Of all that he desireth; which he doth or can reasonably desire. Giveth him not power to eat; either because they are suddenly taken away from him by the hand and curse of God, and given to others; or because God gives him up to a base and covetous mind, which is both a sin and a place. Thereof, i.e. any considerable part of it; whereas the stranger eateth not thereof, but it, i.e. all of it; devoureth it all in an instant.

Trapp's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 6:2

Ecclesiastes 6:2 A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger eateth it: this [is] vanity, and it [is] an evil disease.Ver. 2. So that he wanteth nothing.] Nothing but everything, because he dare not make use of anything almost, but is tantalised by his own baseness. He famisheth at a full feast, he starveth at a fireside. And this is often repeated in this book, because it can never enough be observed and abhorred. Yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof,] i.e., He withholdeth his grace from him, that he cannot use it to his comfort. Herein he is like a stag that hath great horns, but no courage to use them; or rather like an ass loaded with gold and victuals, but feeding upon thistles. Pray we, therefore, that God would together with riches, "give us all things richly to enjoy." Vel mihi da clavem, vel mihi tolle feram. Either give me the key, saith one, or take away the lock. The Greeks describe a good householder to be κτητικον, φυλακτικον, κοσμητικοντωνυπαρχοντων, καιχρηστικον, a good husband, as in getting, keeping and setting out what he hath to the best, so in making good use of it, for his own and others’ behoof and benefit. But a stranger eats it.] God so providing that if one will not, another shall; that if the owner will not eat, but sit piddling or sparing, a stranger, and perhaps an enemy, shall take away. That if men will not serve God with cheerfulness in the abundance of all things, they should fast another while, and be forced to serve their enemies in hunger and thirst and nakedness; and by the want of all be taught the worth of them, carendo quam fruendo

Ellicott's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 6:2

(2) Riches, wealth, and honour.—The three words are used together regarding Solomon (2 Chronicles 1:11).

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 6:2

Verse 2. A man to whom God hath given riches] A man may possess much earthly goods, and yet enjoy nothing of them. Possession and fruition are not necessarily joined together; and this is also among the vanities of life. It is worthy of remark, that it belongs to God as much to give the power to enjoy as it does to give the earthly blessings. A wise heathen saw this: - Di tibi divitias dederant, artemque fruendi. HOR. Ep. lib. i., ep. 4, ver. 7. "The gods had given thee riches, and the art to enjoy them."

Whedon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 6:2

2. A man to whom God hath given riches — Grammar requires us to supply the word, Behold, or, There is, before “a man.” Honour — This word, seeing it follows the sense of to eat, might better be given

Sermons on Ecclesiastes 6:2

	Sermon	Description
	Of the Practice of Covetousness in Spending by William Gouge	William Gouge preaches about the manifestation of covetous practices in spending, highlighting two ways: being too sparing and niggardly in all things, neglecting necessities for o
	The Great Contradiction and Failure. 6:1-12 by W.J. Erdman	In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the Preacher reflects on the futility and emptiness of pursuing worldly riches, honor, and pleasures, ultimately finding them to be vanity and a chas
	What a Pitiful Perishing Portion Is That! by Thomas Brooks	Thomas Brooks emphasizes the futility of placing one's hope and satisfaction in worldly things, describing how those who are worldly-minded have only the transient pleasures of thi
	Spiritual Sickness and Health by J.C. Philpot	J.C. Philpot preaches on the importance of soul-prosperity, drawing from 3 John 2 where John wishes Gaius to prosper and be in health as his soul prospers. Philpot explains the dif
	1 Corinthians 3:1-3 by St. John Chrysostom	John Chrysostom preaches to the Corinthians about the dangers of being carnal and not spiritual, highlighting the need to grow in faith and knowledge of God's wisdom. He emphasizes
	(Through the Bible) 1 Chronicles 20-29 by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the beauty of constant worship and praises being offered to God. He mentions how in the times of David, there were four thousand men dedicat
	Our Daily Homily - 1 Kings by F.B. Meyer	F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of calling upon the Lord in times of distress, as exemplified by David's reliance on God for redemption and vindication. He highlights that tru