Ecclesiastes 9:11

Dutch Statenvertaling (Importantia edition)

Ik keerde mij, en zag onder de zon, dat de loop niet is der snellen, noch de strijd der helden, noch ook de spijs der wijzen, noch ook de rijkdom der verstandigen, noch ook de gunst der welwetenden, maar dat tijd en toeval aan alle dezen wedervaart;

Wat betekent dit?

The verse from Ecclesiastes suggests that success in life isn't always determined by speed, strength, wisdom, or skill. Instead, events are often influenced by time and chance. The speaker, traditionally thought to be King Solomon, underscores the unpredictable nature of life.

Uitgelegd voor kinderen

Imagine you're playing a game where you have to run, fight, think, and be really smart to win. But sometimes, even if you're the fastest runner or the smartest thinker, you might not win because things just happen by chance or at the wrong time.

Historische achtergrond

Ecclesiastes was likely written by King Solomon, who was known for his wisdom. It was written during the time of the divided kingdom, around 900 B.C., for an audience that would have valued wisdom and the lessons of life in a complex world.

Toepassing voor vandaag

In today’s world, this verse could apply to a situation where a well-prepared candidate doesn't get a job because the hiring manager had a bad day, or a student doesn't win a scholarship despite being the smartest because the committee had a different idea of what they were looking for.

Onderwerpen

• wisdom
• providence
• uncertainty
• fate
• chance
• life

Gerelateerde verzen

• Proverbs 21:31
• Ecclesiastes 2:26
• Ecclesiastes 3:1
• Psalms 37:23
• Romans 8:28

Aanbevolen literatuur

Commentaar Commentaren op Ecclesiastes → Deze Bijbel Studiebijbel Statenvertaling (Importantia edition) →

Veelgestelde vragen

Does ecclesiastes 9:11 mean that effort doesn't matter?

No, the verse acknowledges that effort and ability are important, but it also highlights that success is not guaranteed by these alone due to the unpredictable nature of life.

How can one prepare for 'time and chance' mentioned in ecclesiastes 9:11?

While we can't control everything, we can prepare as much as possible, stay adaptable, and trust in providence, which can help us navigate life's unpredictability.

Is ecclesiastes 9:11 a pessimistic view of life?

It's more realistic and pragmatic. The verse encourages a balanced view of life's uncertainties, which can lead to a more resilient and hopeful outlook.

How does ecclesiastes 9:11 relate to the concept of providence?

The verse suggests that while we plan and work hard, the outcome is often beyond our control, aligning with the idea that a higher power guides events.