Ecclesiastes 7:26

Armenian Eastern Bible 1994

Ես սրտով շրջեցի ամէն տեղ, որ իմանամ, քննեմ եւ որոնեմ իմաստութիւնն ու հանճարը, հասկանամ ամբարիշտների ուրախութիւնը,

What Does This Mean?

The speaker in Ecclesiastes describes a woman as being more bitter than death, comparing her to snares and nets. He suggests that only those who please God can escape her, while sinners will be trapped by her.

Explained for Children

Imagine someone who tries to trick you into doing something bad. The person who listens to God can avoid getting caught, but others might fall for the tricks. It's like a game where you have to stay away from the tricky spots.

Historical Background

Ecclesiastes was written by King Solomon, around the 5th century BCE. The text reflects on life's experiences and the futility of human pursuits, addressing a general audience of Israelites and providing wisdom from a monarch's perspective.

Living It Out Today

In a modern scenario, someone might be tempted by a person who manipulates others for selfish gain. Those who stay true to their values and seek God's guidance can avoid such traps, while others might succumb to manipulation.

Topics

• wisdom
• temptation
• sin
• godliness
• protection
• traps

Related Verses

• Proverbs 2:16-19
• Proverbs 5:3-6
• Proverbs 7:5-23
• 2 Timothy 3:6-7
• 1 Peter 5:8

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the 'woman' in Ecclesiastes 7:26?

The 'woman' is likely a metaphor for someone who uses deceit and manipulation. This could apply to any person, not just women, who might trap others in sin.

How can one escape the 'woman' mentioned?

The verse suggests that those who please God, or in other words, those who follow God's guidance, can avoid being trapped by such deceitful tactics.

What does 'bitter than death' mean in this context?

This phrase emphasizes the severity of the situation, suggesting that the deceitful woman is a significant and painful challenge to navigate.

What does it mean to be 'taken' by the woman?

Being 'taken' means falling into the traps of deceit and manipulation, often leading to negative outcomes such as sin or harm.