Ecclesiastes 9:12
Ecclesiastes 9:12 in Multiple Translations
For surely no man knows his time: Like fish caught in a cruel net or birds trapped in a snare, so men are ensnared in an evil time that suddenly falls upon them.
For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them.
For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare, even so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them.
Even man has no knowledge of his time; like fishes taken in an evil net, or like birds taken by deceit, are the sons of men taken in an evil time when it comes suddenly on them.
You can't predict when your end will come. Just like fish caught in a net, or birds caught in a trap, so people are suddenly caught by death when they least expect it.
For neither doth man knowe his time, but as the fishes which are taken in an euill net, and as the birdes that are caught in the snare: so are the children of men snared in the euill time when it falleth vpon them suddenly.
For even man knoweth not his time; as fish that are taken hold of by an evil net, and as birds that are taken hold of by a snare, like these [are] the sons of man snared at an evil time, when it falleth upon them suddenly.
For man also doesn’t know his time. As the fish that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare, even so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falls suddenly on them.
For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them.
Man knoweth not his own end: but as fishes are taken with the hook, and as birds are caught with the snare, so men are taken in the evil time, when it shall suddenly come upon them.
No one knows when he will die [EUP]; fish are cruelly caught in a net, and birds are caught in snares/traps; similarly [SIM], people experience disasters at times when they do not expect them to happen.
Berean Amplified Bible — Ecclesiastes 9:12
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 9:12 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
כִּ֡י
גַּם֩
לֹֽא
יֵדַ֨ע
הָ/אָדָ֜ם
אֶת
עִתּ֗/וֹ
כַּ/דָּגִים֙
שֶׁ/נֶּֽאֱחָזִים֙
בִּ/מְצוֹדָ֣ה
רָעָ֔ה
וְ/כַ֨/צִּפֳּרִ֔ים
הָ/אֲחֻז֖וֹת
בַּ/פָּ֑ח
כָּ/הֵ֗ם
יֽוּקָשִׁים֙
בְּנֵ֣י
הָֽ/אָדָ֔ם
לְ/עֵ֣ת
רָעָ֔ה
כְּ/שֶׁ/תִּפּ֥וֹל
עֲלֵי/הֶ֖ם
פִּתְאֹֽם
כִּ֡י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
גַּם֩
gam
H1571
also
DirObjM
לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
יֵדַ֨ע
yâdaʻ
H3045
to know
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
הָ/אָדָ֜ם
ʼâdâm
H120
the man (Adam)
Art | N-ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
עִתּ֗/וֹ
ʻêth
H6256
time
N-cs | Suff
כַּ/דָּגִים֙
dâg
H1709
fish
Prep | N-mp
שֶׁ/נֶּֽאֱחָזִים֙
ʼâchaz
H270
to grasp
Rel | V-Niphal-Inf-c
בִּ/מְצוֹדָ֣ה
mâtsôwd
H4685
siegework
Prep | N-fs
רָעָ֔ה
raʻ
H7451
bad
Adj
וְ/כַ֨/צִּפֳּרִ֔ים
tsippôwr
H6833
bird
Conj | Prep | N-cp
הָ/אֲחֻז֖וֹת
ʼâchaz
H270
to grasp
Art | V-Qal-Inf-c
בַּ/פָּ֑ח
pach
H6341
snare
Prep | N-ms
כָּ/הֵ֗ם
hêm
H1992
they(masc.)
Prep | Pron
יֽוּקָשִׁים֙
yâqôsh
H3369
to snare
V-Pual-Inf-c
בְּנֵ֣י
bên
H1121
son
N-mp
הָֽ/אָדָ֔ם
ʼâdâm
H120
the man (Adam)
Art | N-ms
לְ/עֵ֣ת
ʻêth
H6256
time
Prep | N-cs
רָעָ֔ה
raʻ
H7451
bad
Adj
כְּ/שֶׁ/תִּפּ֥וֹל
nâphal
H5307
to fall
Prep | Rel | V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
עֲלֵי/הֶ֖ם
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep | Suff
פִּתְאֹֽם
pithʼôwm
H6597
suddenly
Adv
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Ecclesiastes 9:12
כִּ֡י
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.
גַּם֩
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.
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.
יֵדַ֨ע
yâdaʻ
H3045
"to know"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
The Hebrew word for to know means to ascertain by seeing, and is used in many senses, including to learn, perceive, and recognize, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: 1) to know 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to know 1a1a) to know, learn to know 1a1b) to perceive 1a1c) to perceive and see, find out and discern 1a1d) to discriminate, distinguish 1a1e) to know by experience 1a1f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess 1a1g) to consider 1a2) to know, be acquainted with 1a3) to know (a person carnally) 1a4) to know how, be skilful in 1a5) to have knowledge, be wise 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed 1b2) to make oneself known 1b3) to be perceived 1b4) to be instructed 1c) (Piel) to cause to know 1d) (Poal) to cause to know 1e) (Pual) 1e1) to be known 1e2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle) 1f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare 1g) (Hophal) to be made known 1h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself Aramaic equivalent: ye.da (יְדַע "to know" H3046)
Usage: Occurs in 874 OT verses. KJV: acknowledge, acquaintance(-ted with), advise, answer, appoint, assuredly, be aware, (un-) awares, can(-not), certainly, comprehend, consider, [idiom] could they, cunning, declare, be diligent, (can, cause to) discern, discover, endued with, familiar friend, famous, feel, can have, be (ig-) norant, instruct, kinsfolk, kinsman, (cause to let, make) know, (come to give, have, take) knowledge, have (knowledge), (be, make, make to be, make self) known, [phrase] be learned, [phrase] lie by man, mark, perceive, privy to, [idiom] prognosticator, regard, have respect, skilful, shew, can (man of) skill, be sure, of a surety, teach, (can) tell, understand, have (understanding), [idiom] will be, wist, wit, wot. See also: Genesis 3:5; Leviticus 5:4; Judges 21:12.
הָ/אָדָ֜ם
ʼâdâm
H120
"the man (Adam)"
Art | N-ms
Adam was the first human, created by God and mentioned in Genesis 2:19, who married Eve and had sons including Cain, Abel, and Seth.
Definition: The first named man living at the time before the Flood, first mentioned at Gen.2.19; married to Eve (H2332); father of: Cain (H7014B), Abel (H1893) and Seth (H8352); also translated "man" at Gen.2.19,21,23; 3.8,9,20; 5.2; "mankind" at Deu.32.8; "others" at Job.31.33; Another spelling of a.dam (אָדָם "Adam" H0121) man, human being
Usage: Occurs in 526 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] another, [phrase] hypocrite, [phrase] common sort, [idiom] low, man (mean, of low degree), person. See also: Genesis 1:26; Judges 18:7; Psalms 8:5.
אֶת
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.
עִתּ֗/וֹ
ʻêth
H6256
"time"
N-cs | Suff
Eth means time, especially now or when, and can refer to an event, experience, or occasion. It is often used to describe a specific moment or period.
Definition: 1) time 1a) time (of an event) 1b) time (usual) 1c) experiences, fortunes 1d) occurrence, occasion
Usage: Occurs in 258 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] after, (al-) ways, [idiom] certain, [phrase] continually, [phrase] evening, long, (due) season, so (long) as, (even-, evening-, noon-) tide, (meal-), what) time, when. See also: Genesis 8:11; 2 Chronicles 35:17; Psalms 1:3.
כַּ/דָּגִים֙
dâg
H1709
"fish"
Prep | N-mp
This Hebrew word means fish, often referring to a group of fish. It is used in various biblical stories, including those about Jesus and fishing.
Definition: fish
Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: fish. See also: Genesis 9:2; Psalms 8:9; Zephaniah 1:10.
שֶׁ/נֶּֽאֱחָזִים֙
ʼâchaz
H270
"to grasp"
Rel | V-Niphal-Inf-c
The Hebrew word means to grasp or take hold of something, often holding it in possession. It can also mean to be caught or settled. This verb is used in various forms throughout the Bible, including in the books of Exodus and Psalms.
Definition: 1) grasp, take hold, seize, take possession 1a) (Qal) to grasp, take hold of 1b) (Niphal) to be caught, grasped, be settled 1c) (Piel) to enclose, overlay 1d) (Hophal) fastened
Usage: Occurs in 63 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] be affrighted, bar, (catch, lay, take) hold (back), come upon, fasten, handle, portion, (get, have or take) possess(-ion). See also: Genesis 22:13; Nehemiah 7:3; Psalms 48:7.
בִּ/מְצוֹדָ֣ה
mâtsôwd
H4685
"siegework"
Prep | N-fs
Matsod is a stronghold or fortress, like a tower or bulwark, providing protection and defense, as described in 2 Samuel 22:51. It is a safe and secure place.
Definition: siege-works, bulwark
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: bulwark, hold, munition, net, snare. See also: Proverbs 12:12; Ecclesiastes 9:14; Isaiah 29:7.
רָעָ֔ה
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.
וְ/כַ֨/צִּפֳּרִ֔ים
tsippôwr
H6833
"bird"
Conj | Prep | N-cp
This Hebrew word means a little bird, often hopping, and is used to describe a sparrow or fowl in the Bible, such as in Psalm 84:3.
Definition: 1) bird, fowl 1a) bird (singular) 1b) birds (coll) Aramaic equivalent: tse.phar (צְפַר "bird" H6853)
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: bird, fowl, sparrow. See also: Genesis 7:14; Psalms 84:4; Psalms 8:9.
הָ/אֲחֻז֖וֹת
ʼâchaz
H270
"to grasp"
Art | V-Qal-Inf-c
The Hebrew word means to grasp or take hold of something, often holding it in possession. It can also mean to be caught or settled. This verb is used in various forms throughout the Bible, including in the books of Exodus and Psalms.
Definition: 1) grasp, take hold, seize, take possession 1a) (Qal) to grasp, take hold of 1b) (Niphal) to be caught, grasped, be settled 1c) (Piel) to enclose, overlay 1d) (Hophal) fastened
Usage: Occurs in 63 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] be affrighted, bar, (catch, lay, take) hold (back), come upon, fasten, handle, portion, (get, have or take) possess(-ion). See also: Genesis 22:13; Nehemiah 7:3; Psalms 48:7.
בַּ/פָּ֑ח
pach
H6341
"snare"
Prep | N-ms
This word refers to a thin, flat piece of metal, like a plate. It can also describe a net used for catching animals, spread out like a thin sheet of metal.
Definition: 1) bird trap, trap, snare 1a) bird trap (literal) 1b) of calamities, plots, source or agent of calamity (fig.)
Usage: Occurs in 25 OT verses. KJV: gin, (thin) plate, snare. See also: Exodus 39:3; Psalms 142:4; Psalms 11:6.
כָּ/הֵ֗ם
hêm
H1992
"they(masc.)"
Prep | Pron
This Hebrew word is used to refer to a group of men, emphasizing that it is specifically them. It is often translated as 'they' or 'them' in the Bible, and appears in books like Exodus and Isaiah.
Definition: they, these, the same, who
Usage: Occurs in 524 OT verses. KJV: it, like, [idiom] (how, so) many (soever, more as) they (be), (the) same, [idiom] so, [idiom] such, their, them, these, they, those, which, who, whom, withal, ye. See also: Genesis 3:7; Deuteronomy 19:17; 2 Kings 1:18.
יֽוּקָשִׁים֙
yâqôsh
H3369
"to snare"
V-Pual-Inf-c
This verb means to trap or snare someone, either literally or figuratively, and is used to describe the actions of fowlers or the devices of the wicked.
Definition: 1) to lure, entice, snare, lay a snare or lure, set a trap 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lay snares (fig. of devices of wicked) 1a2) fowlers (participle) 1b) (Niphal) to be ensnared, be caught by a bait 1c) (Pual) to be entrapped
Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: fowler (lay a) snare. See also: Deuteronomy 7:25; Ecclesiastes 9:12; Psalms 124:7.
בְּנֵ֣י
bên
H1121
"son"
N-mp
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
הָֽ/אָדָ֔ם
ʼâdâm
H120
"the man (Adam)"
Art | N-ms
Adam was the first human, created by God and mentioned in Genesis 2:19, who married Eve and had sons including Cain, Abel, and Seth.
Definition: The first named man living at the time before the Flood, first mentioned at Gen.2.19; married to Eve (H2332); father of: Cain (H7014B), Abel (H1893) and Seth (H8352); also translated "man" at Gen.2.19,21,23; 3.8,9,20; 5.2; "mankind" at Deu.32.8; "others" at Job.31.33; Another spelling of a.dam (אָדָם "Adam" H0121) man, human being
Usage: Occurs in 526 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] another, [phrase] hypocrite, [phrase] common sort, [idiom] low, man (mean, of low degree), person. See also: Genesis 1:26; Judges 18:7; Psalms 8:5.
לְ/עֵ֣ת
ʻêth
H6256
"time"
Prep | N-cs
Eth means time, especially now or when, and can refer to an event, experience, or occasion. It is often used to describe a specific moment or period.
Definition: 1) time 1a) time (of an event) 1b) time (usual) 1c) experiences, fortunes 1d) occurrence, occasion
Usage: Occurs in 258 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] after, (al-) ways, [idiom] certain, [phrase] continually, [phrase] evening, long, (due) season, so (long) as, (even-, evening-, noon-) tide, (meal-), what) time, when. See also: Genesis 8:11; 2 Chronicles 35:17; Psalms 1:3.
רָעָ֔ה
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.
כְּ/שֶׁ/תִּפּ֥וֹל
nâphal
H5307
"to fall"
Prep | Rel | V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to fall, and it's used in many ways, like falling down, failing, or being defeated. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah. God's people often fell away from Him, but He always offered a way back.
Definition: : fall/drop/fail 1) to fall, lie, be cast down, fail 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to fall 1a2) to fall (of violent death) 1a3) to fall prostrate, prostrate oneself before 1a4) to fall upon, attack, desert, fall away to, go away to, fall into the hand of 1a5) to fall short, fail, fall out, turn out, result 1a6) to settle, waste away, be offered, be inferior to 1a7) to lie, lie prostrate 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to cause to fall, fell, throw down, knock out, lay prostrate 1b2) to overthrow 1b3) to make the lot fall, assign by lot, apportion by lot 1b4) to let drop, cause to fail (fig.) 1b5) to cause to fall 1c) (Hithpael) 1c1) to throw or prostrate oneself, throw oneself upon 1c2) to lie prostrate, prostrate oneself 1d) (Pilel) to fall
Usage: Occurs in 403 OT verses. KJV: be accepted, cast (down, self, (lots), out), cease, die, divide (by lot), (let) fail, (cause to, let, make, ready to) fall (away, down, -en, -ing), fell(-ing), fugitive, have (inheritance), inferior, be judged (by mistake for H6419 (פָּלַל)), lay (along), (cause to) lie down, light (down), be ([idiom] hast) lost, lying, overthrow, overwhelm, perish, present(-ed, -ing), (make to) rot, slay, smite out, [idiom] surely, throw down. See also: Genesis 2:21; 1 Samuel 17:52; Esther 9:3.
עֲלֵי/הֶ֖ם
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
פִּתְאֹֽם
pithʼôwm
H6597
"suddenly"
Adv
This word means happening suddenly or quickly, like an unexpected event. It is used in the Bible to describe surprising things that happen to people like Jacob and Joseph.
Definition: adv 1) suddenly, surprisingly subst 2) suddenness
Usage: Occurs in 25 OT verses. KJV: straightway, sudden(-ly). See also: Numbers 6:9; Proverbs 7:22; Psalms 64:5.
Study Notes — Ecclesiastes 9:12
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Ecclesiastes 9:12 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Ecclesiastes 9:12
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ecclesiastes 9:12
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:12
- Trapp's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:12
- Ellicott's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:12
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:12
- Cambridge Bible on Ecclesiastes 9:12
- Whedon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:12
- Sermons on Ecclesiastes 9:12
Context — Enjoy Your Portion in This Life
10Whatever you find to do with your hands, do it with all your might, for in Sheol, where you are going, there is no work or planning or knowledge or wisdom.
11I saw something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; neither is the bread to the wise, nor the wealth to the intelligent, nor the favor to the skillful. For time and chance happen to all.
12For surely no man knows his time: Like fish caught in a cruel net or birds trapped in a snare, so men are ensnared in an evil time that suddenly falls upon them.
13I have also seen this wisdom under the sun, and it was great to me: 14There was a small city with few men. A mighty king came against it, surrounded it, and built large siege ramps against it.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Thessalonians 5:3 | While people are saying, “Peace and security,” destruction will come upon them suddenly, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. |
| 2 | Luke 21:34–36 | But watch yourselves, or your hearts will be weighed down by dissipation, drunkenness, and the worries of life—and that day will spring upon you suddenly like a snare. For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of all the earth. So keep watch at all times, and pray that you may have the strength to escape all that is about to happen and to stand before the Son of Man.” |
| 3 | Ecclesiastes 8:5–7 | Whoever keeps his command will come to no harm, and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure. For there is a right time and procedure to every purpose, though a man’s misery weighs heavily upon him. Since no one knows what will happen, who can tell him what is to come? |
| 4 | Proverbs 29:6 | An evil man is caught by his own sin, but a righteous one sings and rejoices. |
| 5 | 2 Timothy 2:26 | Then they will come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, who has taken them captive to his will. |
| 6 | Proverbs 7:22–23 | He follows her on impulse, like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer bounding into a trap, until an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare— not knowing it will cost him his life. |
| 7 | 2 Corinthians 6:2 | For He says: “In the time of favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” Behold, now is the time of favor; now is the day of salvation! |
| 8 | Proverbs 6:15 | Therefore calamity will come upon him suddenly; in an instant he will be shattered beyond recovery. |
| 9 | Psalms 73:18–20 | Surely You set them on slick ground; You cast them down into ruin. How suddenly they are laid waste, completely swept away by terrors! Like one waking from a dream, so You, O Lord, awaken and despise their form. |
| 10 | Job 18:8–10 | For his own feet lead him into a net, and he wanders into its mesh. A trap seizes his heel; a snare grips him. A noose is hidden in the ground, and a trap lies in his path. |
Ecclesiastes 9:12 Summary
[Ecclesiastes 9:12 reminds us that life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and we never know what challenges may come our way. This verse encourages us to live each day with purpose and intention, doing our best in all we do, as mentioned in Ecclesiastes 9:10. By living in the present and trusting in God's sovereignty, we can face the future with confidence, even when the unexpected happens, just as we are reminded in Jeremiah 29:11 that God has plans to prosper us. Ultimately, our trust should be in God, who is always with us, as promised in Isaiah 43:2.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to be 'ensnared in an evil time' as mentioned in Ecclesiastes 9:12?
This phrase refers to the unexpected and often unpleasant circumstances that can suddenly befall us, much like the unpredictability of life described in Ecclesiastes 9:11, where 'time and chance happen to all'
Is it possible for us to know when evil times will come upon us?
According to Ecclesiastes 9:12, 'no man knows his time', emphasizing the uncertainty and unpredictability of life's challenges, a theme also echoed in Matthew 24:36 where Jesus says 'no one knows about that day or hour'
How can we prepare for the unexpected evil times that may come our way?
While we cannot predict when these times will come, we can prepare by living each day with purpose and diligence, as advised in Ecclesiastes 9:10, 'Whatever you find to do with your hands, do it with all your might'
What is the significance of the imagery of fish and birds being caught in Ecclesiastes 9:12?
The imagery serves to illustrate the sudden and often inescapable nature of the evil times that can befall us, much like the swift and unexpected capture of fish and birds, highlighting our vulnerability and need for dependence on God
Reflection Questions
- In what ways can I live more intentionally and deliberately, given the unpredictability of life's challenges as described in Ecclesiastes 9:12?
- How can I cultivate a deeper sense of trust and dependence on God when faced with unexpected and difficult circumstances?
- What are some practical ways I can apply the principle of doing 'whatever you find to do with your hands' with all my might, as mentioned in Ecclesiastes 9:10, to my daily life?
- How can I balance the uncertainty of the future with the need to plan and make decisions for my life, in light of Ecclesiastes 9:12?
Gill's Exposition on Ecclesiastes 9:12
For man also knoweth not his time,.... Though it is fixed and settled by the Lord, yet times and seasons are kept in his own power, and not known by men; not the time of his death, nor of any
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Ecclesiastes 9:12
For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:12
His time, to wit, the time of his death, or of some other sore distress which God is bringing upon him; which is opposed to the time of success mentioned in the foregoing verse, and man is said to be ignorant both of the one and of the other. That are taken in an evil net; that whilst they are sporting and feeding themselves, are suddenly and unexpectedly ensnared to their ruin. When it falleth suddenly upon them; when they are most careless and secure.
Trapp's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:12
Ecclesiastes 9:12 For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so [are] the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them.Ver. 12. For man also knoweth not his time.] His end, say the Septuagint and Vulgate; what may befall him in after time, say others. “ Flebile principium melior fortuna sequatur, Accidit in puncto quod non speratur in anno. ” So are the sons of men snared in an evil time.] This is the reddition of the former proposition. As the fishes are taken, &c., so are graceless men snared, &c. Security ushers in their calamity: "When they say, Peace and safety, then sudden destruction breaks in upon them, as travail upon a woman with child, and they shall not escape." God made fair weather before Pharaoh till he was in the heart of the Red Sea. The old world, Sodom, Amnon, Belshazzar, Herod, the rich fool, were all suddenly surprised in the ruff of their jollity. Jerusalem had three years of extraordinary great plenty before her last utter destruction. Philosophers tell us that before a snow the weather will be warmish; when the wind lies, the great rain falls; and the air is most quiet when suddenly there will be an earthquake. Josephus.
Ellicott's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:12
(12) Proverbs 7:23; Ezekiel 12:13; Hosea 7:12.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:12
Verse 12. As the birds that are caught] Man acts so heedlessly, notwithstanding all his wisdom, and all his warnings, that he is often taken, as a fish is, by the baited hook; and the bird by the baited snare. And thus, an evil time, like the snare, gin, trap, hook, falleth suddenly upon them; and they are taken in a moment, and have no means of escaping. How frequently do we see these comparisons illustrated!
Cambridge Bible on Ecclesiastes 9:12
12. as the fishes that are taken in an evil net] The words paint vividly the suddenness of calamities which defeat all men’s purposes and plans. The imagery was a natural one in any country, and meets us in Hosea 7; Ezekiel 12:13; Ezekiel 32:3; Proverbs 7:23; but it is interesting to note a parallel in the poetry of Greece. So Ζschylus: ἥτʼ ? ἐπὶΤροίαςπύργοιςἔβαλεςστεγανὸνδίκτυον, ὡςμήτεμέγανμήτʼ ? οὗννεαρῶντινʼ ? ὑπερτελέσαιμέγαδουλείαςγάγγαμον, ἄτηςπαναλώτου.“Who upon the towers of TroοaCastedst snare of closest meshes,So that none, full-grown or youthful,Could o’erleap the net of bondage,Woe of universal capture.”Agam. 347–350. We may compare the parallels, for the illustration drawn from the “snare of the fowler,” of Psalms 91:3; Psalms 124:7; Proverbs 1:17; Proverbs 6:5.
Whedon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 9:12
12. Man… knoweth not his time — “His time” of danger and trial.
Sermons on Ecclesiastes 9:12
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Four R's of the Gospel: Ruin by E.A. Johnston | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the four key doctrines of Rune, Redemption, Repentance, and Regeneration in the proper order. He highlights |
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Snared in an Evil Time by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher warns about the snare of Satan and how many people, including Christians, are falling into it. He emphasizes the urgency of being prepared for the evil |
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Slippery When by Jack Hyles | In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal experience of going door-to-door to evangelize. He encounters a man who is initially resistant but eventually sits down to listen. Th |
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This Very Year You Are Going to Die! by Samuel Davies | Samuel Davies preaches a powerful sermon at Princeton College in 1761, warning the audience about the certainty and unpredictability of death. He emphasizes the need for serious re |
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Waiting Too Long by Joseph Parker | Joseph Parker preaches about the waiting and groaning of the impotent folk in the porches, likening it to the perpetual crisis of life where we are always on the brink of death. He |
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Being Prepared by Peter Hammond | Peter Hammond preaches on the importance of being prudent and prepared for adversity, drawing lessons from biblical figures like Noah, Joseph, and the Apostle Paul who faced hardsh |
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Letter 79 by James Bourne | James Bourne encourages his friend to be vigilant in their spiritual walk, warning against the deceitfulness of the heart and the dangers of breaking through the hedge of God's pro |