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Ecclesiastes 11:8
New English Translation
Ecclesiastes 11:8
New English Translation
8 So, if a man lives many years, let him rejoice in them all,
but let him remember that the days of darkness[a] will be many—all that is about to come is obscure.[b]
Footnotes
- Ecclesiastes 11:8 tn The phrase “the days of darkness” refers to the onset of old age (Eccl 12:1-5) and the inevitable experience of death (Eccl 11:7-8; 12:6-7). Elsewhere, “darkness” is a figure of speech (metonymy of association) for death (Job 10:21-22; 17:13; 18:18).
- Ecclesiastes 11:8 tn The term הֶבֶל (hevel) here means “obscure,” that is, unknown. This sense is derived from the literal concept of breath, vapor or wind that cannot be seen; thus, the idea of “obscure; dark; difficult to understand; enigmatic” (see HALOT 236-37 s.v. I הֶבֶל; BDB 210-11 s.v. I הֶבֶל). It is used in this sense in reference to enigmas in life (6:2; 8:10, 14) and the future which is obscure (11:8).
Ecclesiastes 11:8
New International Version
Ecclesiastes 11:8
New International Version
8 However many years anyone may live,
let them enjoy them all.
But let them remember(A) the days of darkness,
for there will be many.
Everything to come is meaningless.
New English Translation (NET)
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New International Version (NIV)
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