Ecclesiastes 7:21
Ecclesiastes 7:21 in Multiple Translations
Do not pay attention to every word that is spoken, or you may hear your servant cursing you.
Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee:
Also take not heed unto all words that are spoken, lest thou hear thy servant curse thee;
Do not give ear to all the words which men say, for fear of hearing the curses of your servant.
Don't take to heart everything that people say, otherwise you may hear your servant talking badly about you,
Wisedome shall strengthen the wise man more then ten mightie princes that are in ye citie.
Also to all the words that they speak give not thy heart, that thou hear not thy servant reviling thee.
Also don’t take heed to all words that are spoken, lest you hear your servant curse you;
Also take no heed to all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee:
For there is no just man upon earth, that doth good, and sinneth not.
Do not pay attention [IDM] to everything that people say, because if you do that, you might hear your servant cursing you.
Berean Amplified Bible — Ecclesiastes 7:21
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 7:21 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
גַּ֤ם
לְ/כָל
הַ/דְּבָרִים֙
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
יְדַבֵּ֔רוּ
אַל
תִּתֵּ֖ן
לִבֶּ֑/ךָ
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
לֹֽא
תִשְׁמַ֥ע
אֶֽת
עַבְדְּ/ךָ֖
מְקַלְלֶֽ/ךָ
גַּ֤ם
gam
H1571
also
DirObjM
לְ/כָל
kôl
H3605
all
Prep | N-ms
הַ/דְּבָרִים֙
dâbâr
H1697
Chronicles
Art | N-mp
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
יְדַבֵּ֔רוּ
dâbar
H1696
to speak
V-Piel-Imperf-3mp
אַל
ʼal
H408
not
Part
תִּתֵּ֖ן
nâthan
H5414
to give
V-Qal-Juss-2ms
לִבֶּ֑/ךָ
lêb
H3820
heart
N-ms | Suff
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
תִשְׁמַ֥ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
V-Qal-Imperf-2ms
אֶֽת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
עַבְדְּ/ךָ֖
ʻebed
H5650
servant/slave
N-ms | Suff
מְקַלְלֶֽ/ךָ
qâlal
H7043
to lighten
V-Piel | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Ecclesiastes 7:21
גַּ֤ם
gam
H1571
"also"
DirObjM
Also means 'even' or 'too', used for emphasis or to connect ideas, like 'both...and' or 'neither...nor'. It can introduce a climax or show contrast.
Definition: 1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea 1a) also, moreover (giving emphasis) 1b) neither, neither...nor (with negative) 1c) even (for stress) 1d) indeed, yea (introducing climax) 1e) also (of correspondence or retribution) 1f) but, yet, though (adversative) 1g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case) 2) (TWOT) again, alike
Usage: Occurs in 661 OT verses. KJV: again, alike, also, (so much) as (soon), both (so)...and, but, either...or, even, for all, (in) likewise (manner), moreover, nay...neither, one, then(-refore), though, what, with, yea. See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 19:9; 1 Samuel 14:21.
לְ/כָל
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.
הַ/דְּבָרִים֙
dâbâr
H1697
"Chronicles"
Art | N-mp
A word or thing, like a matter or affair, as seen in the book of Chronicles where it refers to the events and words of kings. It can also mean a cause or reason for something.
Definition: This name means word, speaking
Usage: Occurs in 1290 OT verses. KJV: act, advice, affair, answer, [idiom] any such (thing), because of, book, business, care, case, cause, certain rate, [phrase] chronicles, commandment, [idiom] commune(-ication), [phrase] concern(-ing), [phrase] confer, counsel, [phrase] dearth, decree, deed, [idiom] disease, due, duty, effect, [phrase] eloquent, errand, (evil favoured-) ness, [phrase] glory, [phrase] harm, hurt, [phrase] iniquity, [phrase] judgment, language, [phrase] lying, manner, matter, message, (no) thing, oracle, [idiom] ought, [idiom] parts, [phrase] pertaining, [phrase] please, portion, [phrase] power, promise, provision, purpose, question, rate, reason, report, request, [idiom] (as hast) said, sake, saying, sentence, [phrase] sign, [phrase] so, some (uncleanness), somewhat to say, [phrase] song, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, task, [phrase] that, [idiom] there done, thing (concerning), thought, [phrase] thus, tidings, what(-soever), [phrase] wherewith, which, word, work. See also: Genesis 11:1; Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 18:21.
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.
יְדַבֵּ֔רוּ
dâbar
H1696
"to speak"
V-Piel-Imperf-3mp
To speak or communicate, like God speaking to Moses in Exodus or a king commanding his people. It can also mean to promise or warn someone.
Definition: : speak/tell/command 1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing 1a) (Qal) to speak 1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to speak 1c2) to promise 1d) (Pual) to be spoken 1e) (Hithpael) to speak 1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight
Usage: Occurs in 1049 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, bid, command, commune, declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse, say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think, use (entreaties), utter, [idiom] well, [idiom] work. See also: Genesis 8:15; Exodus 12:25; Leviticus 23:9.
אַל
ʼal
H408
"not"
Part
Means not or nothing, used to express negation, as in the phrase do not or let not be.
Definition: 1) not, no, nor, neither, nothing (as wish or preference) 1a) do not, let not (with a verb) 1b) let there not be (with a verb understood) 1c) not, no (with substantive) 1d) nothing (as substantive) Aramaic equivalent: al (אַל "not" H0409)
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: nay, neither, [phrase] never, no, nor, not, nothing (worth), rather than. See also: Genesis 13:8; Joshua 11:6; 1 Chronicles 22:13.
תִּתֵּ֖ן
nâthan
H5414
"to give"
V-Qal-Juss-2ms
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.
לִבֶּ֑/ךָ
lêb
H3820
"heart"
N-ms | Suff
Leb refers to the heart, but also represents feelings, will, and intellect in the Bible. It is used figuratively to describe the center of something, and is often translated as heart or mind. Leb is a complex concept that encompasses emotions and thoughts.
Definition: 1) inner man, mind, will, heart, understanding 1a) inner part, midst 1a1) midst (of things) 1a2) heart (of man) 1a3) soul, heart (of man) 1a4) mind, knowledge, thinking, reflection, memory 1a5) inclination, resolution, determination (of will) 1a6) conscience 1a7) heart (of moral character) 1a8) as seat of appetites 1a9) as seat of emotions and passions 1a10) as seat of courage
Usage: Occurs in 552 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] care for, comfortably, consent, [idiom] considered, courag(-eous), friend(-ly), ((broken-), (hard-), (merry-), (stiff-), (stout-), double) heart(-ed), [idiom] heed, [idiom] I, kindly, midst, mind(-ed), [idiom] regard(-ed), [idiom] themselves, [idiom] unawares, understanding, [idiom] well, willingly, wisdom. See also: Genesis 6:5; 2 Samuel 13:33; Psalms 4:8.
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
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.
לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
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.
תִשְׁמַ֥ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
V-Qal-Imperf-2ms
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
אֶֽת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
עַבְדְּ/ךָ֖
ʻebed
H5650
"servant/slave"
N-ms | Suff
This word refers to a servant or slave, often in the context of serving God or a human master. It can also describe a prophet or Levite. The KJV translates it as bondage, bondman, or servant.
Definition: 1) slave, servant 1a) slave, servant, man-servant 1b) subjects 1c) servants, worshippers (of God) 1d) servant (in special sense as prophets, Levites etc) 1e) servant (of Israel) 1f) servant (as form of address between equals) Aramaic equivalent: a.vad (עֲבַד "servant/slave" H5649)
Usage: Occurs in 714 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] bondage, bondman, (bond-) servant, (man-) servant. See also: Genesis 9:25; Exodus 11:3; 1 Samuel 8:16.
מְקַלְלֶֽ/ךָ
qâlal
H7043
"to lighten"
V-Piel | Suff
The Hebrew word qalal means to make something light or easy, but it can also mean to curse or bring into contempt. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament, including in the books of Exodus and Psalms.
Definition: 1) to be slight, be swift, be trifling, be of little account, be light 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be slight, be abated (of water) 1a2) to be swift 1a3) to be trifling, be of little account 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be swift, show oneself swift 1b2) to appear trifling, be too trifling, be insignificant 1b3) to be lightly esteemed 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to make despicable 1c2) to curse 1d) (Pual) to be cursed 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to make light, lighten 1e2) to treat with contempt, bring contempt or dishonour 1f) (Pilpel) 1f1) to shake 1f2) to whet 1g) (Hithpalpel) to shake oneself, be moved to and fro
Usage: Occurs in 79 OT verses. KJV: abate, make bright, bring into contempt, (ac-) curse, despise, (be) ease(-y, -ier), (be a, make, make somewhat, move, seem a, set) light(-en, -er, -ly, -ly afflict, -ly esteem, thing), [idiom] slight(-ly), be swift(-er), (be, be more, make, re-) vile, whet. See also: Genesis 8:8; 2 Kings 3:18; Psalms 37:22.
Study Notes — Ecclesiastes 7:21
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Ecclesiastes 7:21 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Ecclesiastes 7:21
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ecclesiastes 7:21
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 7:21
- Trapp's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 7:21
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 7:21
- Cambridge Bible on Ecclesiastes 7:21
- Barnes' Notes on Ecclesiastes 7:21
- Whedon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 7:21
- Sermons on Ecclesiastes 7:21
Context — The Limits of Human Wisdom
19Wisdom makes the wise man stronger than ten rulers in a city.
20Surely there is no righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.
21Do not pay attention to every word that is spoken, or you may hear your servant cursing you.
22For you know in your heart that many times you yourself have cursed others. 23All this I tested by wisdom, saying, “I resolve to be wise.” But it was beyond me.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 30:10 | Do not slander a servant to his master, or he will curse you, and you will bear the guilt. |
| 2 | Isaiah 29:21 | those who indict a man with a word, who ensnare the mediator at the gate, and who with false charges deprive the innocent of justice. |
| 3 | 2 Samuel 16:10 | But the king replied, “What have I to do with you, O sons of Zeruiah? If he curses me because the LORD told him, ‘Curse David,’ who can ask, ‘Why did you do this?’” |
| 4 | 1 Corinthians 13:5–7 | It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs. Love takes no pleasure in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. |
| 5 | 2 Samuel 19:19 | and said, “My lord, do not hold me guilty, and do not remember your servant’s wrongdoing on the day my lord the king left Jerusalem. May the king not take it to heart. |
Ecclesiastes 7:21 Summary
[This verse, Ecclesiastes 7:21, teaches us to be careful about what we listen to, because not everything people say is kind or true. We should try to focus on positive and uplifting conversations, just like Philippians 4:8 advises us to think about things that are true, noble, and praiseworthy. By being selective in what we listen to, we can avoid getting hurt or offended, and instead, we can use our words to build each other up and show love, as seen in Ephesians 4:29-32.]
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I not pay attention to every word spoken, as mentioned in Ecclesiastes 7:21?
This verse advises us to be selective in what we listen to, as not everything spoken is edifying or truthful, and it can be hurtful, as seen in Proverbs 12:18, which warns that reckless words can pierce like a sword.
What if I hear my servant or someone else cursing me, should I take action?
According to Ecclesiastes 7:21, if you hear your servant cursing you, it's not necessarily a call to action, but rather a reminder that we all have sinned and fallen short, as stated in Romans 3:23, and that we should extend grace and forgiveness, just as God has forgiven us in Ephesians 4:32.
How does this verse relate to our everyday conversations and relationships?
Ecclesiastes 7:21 encourages us to be mindful of the words we speak and to avoid engaging with negative or hurtful speech, as it can damage our relationships and reputation, and instead, we should strive to speak words that are gracious and uplifting, as advised in Ephesians 4:29-30.
What can I learn from this verse about my own heart and behavior?
This verse, in conjunction with Ecclesiastes 7:22, reminds us that we all have the capacity for sinful speech and actions, and that we should examine our own hearts and behaviors, as encouraged in Psalm 139:23-24, to ensure we are living a life that honors God and loves others well.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can practice selective listening in my daily conversations and protect myself from hurtful or negative words?
- How can I extend forgiveness and grace to someone who has spoken hurtfully about me, just as God has forgiven me?
- In what ways can I use my words to build others up and speak life, rather than tearing them down, as encouraged in Ephesians 4:29-32?
- What are some common phrases or words that I use that might be hurtful to others, and how can I replace them with more loving and gracious language?
Gill's Exposition on Ecclesiastes 7:21
Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken,.... Seeing so it is, that imperfection attends the best of men, no man is wise at all times, foolish words and unguarded expressions will sometimes
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ecclesiastes 7:21
Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee: Take no heed unto all words. Since therefore thou, being far from perfectly "just" thyself, hast much to be Take no heed unto all words.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 7:21
Take no heed; do not severely observe nor strictly search into them, nor listen to hear them, as many persons out of curiosity use to do. Unto all words that are spoken, to wit, concerning thee, or against thee. Under this one kind of offences of the tongue, which are most frequent, he seems to understand all injuries which we suffer from others, and adviseth us that we do not too rigidly examine them, nor too deeply resent them, but rather neglect and forget them. Lest thou hear thy servant curse thee; which will vex and grieve thee, and may provoke thee to vengeance and cruelty against him.
Trapp's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 7:21
Ecclesiastes 7:21 Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee:Ver. 21. Also take no heed.] But be "as a deaf man that heareth not, and as a dumb man, in whose mouth there is no reproof." If thou answer anything, say as he in Tacitus did to one that railed at him, Tu linguae, ego vero aurium dominus, Thou mayest say what thou wilt, but I will hear as I wish; or as once a certain steward did to his passionate lord, when he called him knave, &c.: - ‘ Your honour may speak as you please, but I believe not a word that you say, for I know myself an honest man.’ The language of reproachers must be read like Hebrew, backwards. Princes used to correct the indecencies of ambassadors by denying them audience. Certain it is, that he enjoys a brave composedness that sets himself above the flight of the injurious claw. Isaac’ s apology to his brother Ishmael, viz., patience and silence is the best answer to words of scorn and petulance, said learned Hooker. I care not for man’ s day, saith Paul. Non cum vanum calumniatorem, I regard not a vain slanderer, saith Augustine. Wicelius and Cochleus gave out that we Lutherans betrayed the Rhodes to the Turk, saith Melanchthon. These impudent lies need no confutation, dicant ipsi talia quoad velint, let them tell such loud and lewd lies as many as they will. When a net is spread for a bird, saith Augustine, the manner is to throw stones at the hedge.
These stones hurt not the bird, but she, hearing and fearing this vain sound, falls into the net. In like manner, saith he, men that fear and regard the vain sound of all ill words, what do they but fall into the devil’ s net, who thereby carries them captive into much evil, many troubles and inconvenience? Lest thou hear thy servant curse thee.] Who should in duty speak the best of thee, though frample and froward, cross and crooked. Or by "servant" understand base, inferior people, such as were Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, and those "abjects" that "tare David’ s name, and ceased not."
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 7:21
Verse 21. Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken] This is good advice, and much for every man's peace through life. Thy servant curse thee] מקללך mekallelecha, make light of thee, speak evil of thee.
Cambridge Bible on Ecclesiastes 7:21
21. Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken] The train of thought leads on to another rule of conduct. The fact that all men sin is shewn by the words with which men talk of the faults and weaknesses of their neighbours. To such words, the idle gossip of rumour, the comments on words or acts, no wise man will give heed. For him, in St Paul’s language, it will be “a very small thing to be judged of man’s judgment” (1 Corinthians 4:3). An idle curiosity to know what other people say of us will for the most part bring with it the mortification of finding that they blame rather than praise. No man is a hero to his valet, and if he is anxious to know his servant’s estimate of him, he may discover, however wise and good he strives to be, that it may find utterance in a curse and not a blessing. So, in political life, men have been known (e.g. Pompeius in the case of Sertorius) to burn the papers of their fallen foes. So in literary life some of the wise of heart have laid it down as a rule not to read reviews of their own writings.
The same feeling finds an epigrammatic expression in the proud motto of a Scotch family: “They say: What say they? Let them say!”
Barnes' Notes on Ecclesiastes 7:21
Curse ... cursed - Rather, speak evil of ... spoken evil of.
Whedon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 7:21
21. Also — Should be therefore. Take no heed unto all words — Seeing that great men are not always wise, do not be very inquisitive to know what is said even about yourself. Some ignorance of this may be some bliss.
Sermons on Ecclesiastes 7:21
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A Series of Proverbs Part 1 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith emphasizes the inevitability of death and the inability to escape it. He also discusses the misuse of authority and how those in power often suff |
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Exhortations by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of holding onto the promises of God. He uses the analogy of four beautiful and powerful creatures: the lion, the greyhound (o |
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Epistle 92 by George Fox | George Fox encourages all believers who are imprisoned for their faith to surrender to the truth, which will ultimately set them free. He emphasizes the importance of relying on th |
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Homily 3 on Matthew by St. John Chrysostom | John Chrysostom preaches on the genealogy of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the mystery and significance behind tracing Joseph's genealogy and the Virgin Mary's betrothal to him, highli |
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Subjection Under God's Chastisement by A.W. Pink | A.W. Pink emphasizes the necessity of being in subjection to God's chastisement, acknowledging our inherent rebellious nature inherited from our first parents. He explains that tru |
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(Missions Conference Shoals) - Part 4 by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of listening to God's commandments and living a life of repentance. He compares the urgency of this message to a parent plead |
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George Whitefield - His Life and Ministry by J.C. Ryle | I apologize, but I am unable to watch videos or access specific content. However, if you provide me with a transcript or any written information from the video, I would be more tha |