richmahn_en_tn/en_tn_21-ECC.tsv

Book	Chapter	Verse	ID	SupportReference	OrigQuote	Occurrence	GLQuote	OccurrenceNote
ECC	front	intro	d82s			0		# Introduction to Ecclesiastes<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of Ecclesiastes<br><br>1. The author questions the nature of life and the limits of human wisdom (1:1–6:12)<br>1. The author teaches about making wise choices in how one lives (7:1–12:7)<br>1. The conclusion and ending (12:8–14)<br><br>### What is the Book of Ecclesiastes about?<br><br>Ecclesiastes is a group of short teachings that try to answer questions such as “What do people gain from all their labor?” Ecclesiastes is a series of thoughts about a variety of subjects, all of them about the purpose and worth of various actions and events. The author concludes that all the work we perform and all the knowledge and skill we gain is like a vapor that disappears, and that we must fear Yahweh and keep his commandments.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>The traditional title for this book is “Ecclesiastes.” Its meaning is similar to “religious assembly.” Translators might decide on a title that better describes the content of the book, such as “Words of a Teacher” or “Teachings of a Wise Man.”<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of Ecclesiastes?<br><br>The author appears to be Solomon, “the Teacher, the descendant of David and king in Jerusalem.” This is consistent with what Solomon was known for:<br>* his wisdom ([Ecclesiastes 1:16](../../ecc/01/16.md) and twenty-six other references to wisdom);<br>* his vast wealth ([Ecclesiastes 2:8](../../ecc/02/08.md)), and the pain that comes from wealth ([Ecclesiastes 5:13-14](../05/13.md); [Ecclesiastes 4:8](../../ecc/04/08.md); and [Ecclesiastes 9:11](../../ecc/09/11.md));<br>* his large number of servants ([Ecclesiastes 2:7](../../ecc/02/07.md) and [Ecclesiastes 10:7](../../ecc/10/07.md));<br>* his limitless opportunities for worldly pleasures ([Ecclesiastes 2:1-2](../02/01.md), [Ecclesiastes 10](../02/09.md); [Ecclesiastes 3:13](../../ecc/03/13.md); [Ecclesiastes 4:8](../../ecc/04/08.md); [Ecclesiastes 5:4](../../ecc/05/04.md); and [Ecclesiastes 12:1](../../ecc/12/01.md)); and<br>* the wide range of his many building projects ([Ecclesiastes 2:4-6](../02/04.md)).<br><br>Solomon appears to have written the Book of Ecclesiastes near the end of his life, as he reflected on what he gained from all that he did.<br><br>### Why are there so many apparent contradictions in the Book of Ecclesiastes?<br><br>Some scholars think the author was a faithful man. Other scholars think that the author made bad decisions and was sorrowful when he wrote this book. Apparent contradictions in the book may indicate that Solomon’s faith was sometimes weak. Or, it is also possible that the teachings in the book differ from each other in order to relate to different things happening in the lives of readers.<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What does this book teach about how God repays people?<br><br>In the ancient Near East, people were concerned with why they were being punished or blessed. They often connected these things to their gods. The writer of Ecclesiastes explains that Yahweh will bless and reward people for the right things they do and punish people for the evil things they do. But this might not happen in this life. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/bless]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/evil]])<br><br>### What value did the Israelites place on the Book of Ecclesiastes?<br><br>The Israelites have often questioned the value of this book. This is due in large part to its unusual wording and teachings. At times, it appears to disagree with the rest of Scripture. While many have questioned its authority, it has been affirmed to be Scripture. It gives valuable lessons concerning the uselessness of pursuing any goal other than to give Yahweh glory.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What is the meaning of “under the sun?”<br><br>“Under the sun” here is another way of saying “on the earth.” When the author says that there is “nothing new under the sun,” this means that every kind of thing has already happened before on the earth. While a particular event may not have specifically occurred before, something similar has already occurred.<br><br>### How do I translate harsh or shocking passages?<br><br>Parts of the Book of Ecclesiastes can be shocking or surprising to read in Scripture. For example, “If a man fathers a hundred children and lives many years, so that the days of his years are many, but if his heart is not satisfied with good and he is not buried with honor, then I say that a baby that is born dead is better off than he is” (6:3). The translator should allow these difficulties to remain and not try to make them less surprising.<br><br>### How is life described in the Book of Ecclesiastes?<br><br>The author of Ecclesiastes concludes that everything in this life quickly passes away, like a vapor that disappears. A person’s circumstances or character and even all of the things of this world have little or no significance apart from God. That is because God gives meaning to everything.<br><br>At the end of their life, people often say that the years of their life seemed short. The author of Ecclesiastes used the metaphor of vapor or breath to describe how life ends while it seems to be just beginning.<br>
ECC	1	intro	g7jr			0		# Ecclesiastes 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 1:2-11 and 15.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Tone<br>The tone of this chapter is sad, or depressing. The author believes that everything in life is pointless. The metaphors in this chapter all describe the idea that nothing ever changes. This is also known as “fatalism.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
ECC	1	2	x2dt	figs-simile		0	Like a vapor of mist, like a breeze in the wind, everything vanishes	This speaks of how everything in life vanishes and has no lasting value as if everything were like a disappearing vapor or breeze. Alternate translation: “Like a vapor of mist vanishes and like a breeze in the wind disappears, everything vanishes and has no lasting value” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	1	3	bsv3	figs-rquestion		0	What profit does mankind gain…under the sun?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that man’s work is pointless and has no lasting benefit. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Mankind gains no profit…under the sun.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	1	3	r9j3	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	1	4	fj3a			0	General Information:	The writer is presenting the natural order of life as he understands it.
ECC	1	5	n9ia	figs-personification		0	hurries back to the place	This speaks of how the sun sets at the end of the day and is soon ready to rise again, as if it were a person that quickly ran from the place where it sets to the place from which it rises. Alternate translation: “quickly returns to the place” or “quickly goes to the place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ECC	1	7	ri2j			0	General Information:	The writer continues with observations about the natural order.
ECC	1	8	ax86			0	Everything becomes wearisome	“Everything becomes tiring.” Since man is unable to explain these things, it becomes useless to try.
ECC	1	8	y4ve	figs-synecdoche		0	The eye is not satisfied by what it sees	Here the “eye” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “A person is not satisfied by what his eyes see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	1	8	n7hm	figs-synecdoche		0	nor is the ear fulfilled by what it hears	Here the “ear” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “nor is a person content by what his ears hear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	1	9	h89i			0	General Information:	There is nothing new regarding man and his activities.
ECC	1	9	i85d	figs-activepassive		0	whatever has been done is what will be done	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whatever has happened before is what will happen again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	1	9	sv37	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	1	10	kws8	figs-rquestion		0	Is there anything about which it may be said, ‘Look, this is new’?	This rhetorical question is asked to emphasize that man cannot say there is anything new. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is nothing about which it may be said, ‘Look, this is new.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	1	10	pdf8	figs-activepassive		0	about which it may be said	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “about which someone may say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	1	11	h282	figs-ellipsis		0	that will happen in the future	The understood subject may be supplied. Alternate translation: “the things that will happen in the future” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
ECC	1	11	si4s	figs-activepassive		0	will not likely be remembered either	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will not likely remember them either” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	1	13	mk1h	figs-synecdoche		0	I applied my mind	Here the author refers to himself by his “mind” to emphasize his thoughts. Alternate translation: “I determined” or “I applied myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	1	13	at9z	figs-doublet		0	to study and to search out	These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize how diligently he studied. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	1	13	l4hf	figs-explicit		0	under heaven	This refers to things that are done on earth. Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	1	13	a36k			0	children of mankind	“human beings”
ECC	1	14	d4rw	figs-activepassive		0	all the deeds that are done	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “everything that people do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	1	14	h2f6	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	1	14	fw3m	figs-idiom		0	look	The author uses this word to draw attention to what he says next. Alternate translation: “indeed” or “really” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	1	14	xq7t	figs-parallelism		0	amount to vapor…chasing the wind	These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	1	14	jpp7	figs-metaphor		0	amount to vapor	“are only mist.” The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were “vapor.” Just as vapor disappears and does not last, things have no lasting value. Alternate translation: “are as useless as vapor” or “are meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	1	14	i9d5	figs-metaphor		0	chasing the wind	The author says that everything that people do is as useless as if they were trying to control the wind. Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	1	15	s638	figs-activepassive		0	The twisted cannot be straightened! The missing cannot be counted	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People cannot straighten things that are twisted! They cannot count what is not there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	1	16	ql67	figs-synecdoche		0	I have spoken to my heart	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I have spoken to myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	1	16	mnf4			0	My mind has seen	Here the author refers to himself by his “mind” to emphasize what he has learned. Alternate translation: “I have gained” or “I have learned”
ECC	1	17	ewq3	figs-synecdoche		0	I applied my heart	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I determined” or “I applied myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	1	17	bp2y	figs-doublet		0	madness and folly	The words “madness” and “folly” share similar meanings and refer to foolish thinking and behavior, respectively. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	1	17	msw2	figs-metaphor		0	an attempt to shepherd the wind	The author says learning wisdom and madness and folly is as useless as trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	intro	cab9			0		# Ecclesiastes 02 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 2:10-16.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Pleasures<br>When the author thought about the pointlessness of life, he decided to fill it with pointless pleasures. He believed that this type of living would have no effect on the world. Therefore, he indulged in every type of pleasure.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Assumed knowledge<br>It is assumed that the author is going to reject the way of living in this chapter. He is certainly not encouraging this way of living even though he does not say this explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
ECC	2	1	dd5v	figs-synecdoche		0	I said in my heart	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	2	1	shl4	figs-abstractnouns		0	I will test you with happiness	Here the word “you” refers to himself. The word “happiness” can be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “I will test myself with things that make me happy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	2	1	c2cn	figs-abstractnouns		0	So enjoy pleasure	The word “pleasure” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “So I will enjoy things that please me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	2	1	af7f	figs-metaphor		0	this also was just a temporary breeze	This speaks of how happiness only lasts for a short time as if it were a temporary breeze. Alternate translation: “this also only lasted for a short time, like a temporary breeze” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	2	v8jj	figs-quotations		0	I said about laughter, “It is crazy,”	The direct quotation can be translated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “I said that it is crazy to laugh at things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
ECC	2	2	s5xc	figs-rquestion		0	What use is it?	The author uses a rhetorical question to emphasize that pleasure is useless. Alternate translation: “It is useless.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	2	3	pim6	figs-metaphor		0	I explored in my heart	This speaks of thinking hard for a long time as if it were exploring. Also, the author speaks of his feelings and his thoughts as if they were his “heart.” Alternate translation: “I thought hard about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	2	3	qyb2	figs-abstractnouns		0	to gratify my desires with wine	The word “desires” may be expressed as a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “to use wine to make myself happy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	2	3	ce8x	figs-personification		0	I let my mind guide me with wisdom	Here the author speaks of using the wisdom that he had been taught to guide himself as if this wisdom were a person who guided him. Alternate translation: “I thought about the things that wise people had taught me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ECC	2	3	t4xm	figs-explicit		0	under heaven	This refers to things that are done on earth. Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	2	3	dp1p			0	during the days of their lives	“during the time that they are alive”
ECC	2	4	l8k8	figs-metonymy		0	I built houses for myself and planted vineyards	The writer probably told people to do the work. Alternate translation: “I had people build houses and plant vineyards for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	2	5	b7j9	figs-metonymy		0	I built for myself gardens and parks; I planted	The writer probably told people to do the work. Alternate translation: “I had people build for me gardens and parks; I had them plant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	2	5	ju37	figs-doublet		0	gardens and parks	These two words share similar meanings and refer to beautiful orchards of fruit trees. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	2	6	s54k	figs-metonymy		0	I created	The writer probably told people to do the work. Alternate translation: “I had them create” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	2	6	f5w7			0	to water a forest	“to provide water for a forest”
ECC	2	6	yp4p	figs-activepassive		0	forest where trees were grown	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “forest where trees grew” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	2	7	apg7			0	I had slaves born in my palace	“I had slaves that were born in my palace” or “My slaves bore children and they also were my slaves”
ECC	2	7	ux74	figs-ellipsis		0	much more than any king	The understood verb may be supplied. Alternate translation: “much more than any other king had” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
ECC	2	8	n6xa	figs-explicit		0	the treasures of kings and provinces	This refers to the gold and other wealth that neighboring countries were forced to pay to the king of Israel. Alternate translation: “that I acquired from the treasures of kings and the rulers of provinces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	2	8	z349	figs-metonymy		0	provinces	Here “provinces” represents the rulers of the provinces. Alternate translation: “the rulers of provinces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	2	8	sng5	figs-explicit		0	the delights of the children of humanity—and many concubines	This means that he had many concubines that he enjoyed sleeping with, as any man enjoys sleeping with women. Alternate translation: “I greatly enjoyed many concubines, as would delight any man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	2	9	v6ku	figs-explicit		0	than all who were before me in Jerusalem	This refers to all the previous rulers of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “than all the kings who had ruled before me in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	2	9	hz3n	figs-idiom		0	my wisdom remained with me	This is an idiom. “I continued to act wisely” or “I continued to be wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	2	10	ner1	figs-synecdoche		0	Whatever my eyes desired…from them	Here the author refers to himself by his “eyes” to emphasize what he sees. Alternate translation: “Whatever I saw and desired…from myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	2	10	v74v			0	I did not withhold from them	This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “I got for them”
ECC	2	10	vdf1	figs-synecdoche		0	I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his desires. This can be stated positively and the word “pleasure” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “I did not keep myself from any pleasure” or “I allowed myself to enjoy everything that made me happy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	2	10	bsh6	figs-synecdoche		0	my heart rejoiced	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his desires. Alternate translation: “I rejoiced” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	2	11	p9rs	figs-synecdoche		0	all the deeds that my hands had accomplished	Here the author refers to himself by his “hands.” Alternate translation: “all that I had accomplished” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	2	11	s4rm	figs-parallelism		0	vapor…an attempt to shepherd the wind	These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	2	11	bmh2	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	“mist.” The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were “vapor.” See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	11	g17w	figs-metaphor		0	an attempt to shepherd the wind	The author says that everything that people do is as useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	11	ce6q			0	There was no profit under the sun in it	“But it had no profit under the sun”
ECC	2	11	wz2f	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	2	12	l7xp	figs-doublet		0	madness and folly	The words “madness” and “folly” have similar meanings and refer to foolish thinking and behavior, respectively. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:17](../01/17.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	2	12	u6br	figs-rquestion		0	For what can the next king do who comes after the king, which has not already been done?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize his point that the next king will not be able to do anything more valuable that what he had already done. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “For the next king who comes after the king can do nothing that a king before him has not already done.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	2	12	f76d			0	the next king…who comes after the king	“the king…who succeeds the current king” or “the next king…who comes after me”
ECC	2	13	p1yi	figs-simile		0	wisdom has advantages over folly, just as light is better than darkness	This speaks of how wisdom is better than folly by comparing it to how light is better than darkness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	2	14	ml2f	figs-metaphor		0	The wise man uses his eyes in his head to see where he is going	This speaks of a wise man making wise decisions as walking and paying attention to where he is going. Alternate translation: “The wise man is like a person who uses his eyes to see where he is going” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	14	dub9	figs-idiom		0	uses his eyes in his head to see	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “pays attention and looks to see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	2	14	j96u	figs-metaphor		0	the fool walks in darkness	This compares a fool making bad decisions to someone walking in darkness. Alternate translation: “the fool is like a person who walks in the dark” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	14	r1qq			0	the same event	death
ECC	2	15	fe31	figs-synecdoche		0	I said in my heart	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	2	15	ugh6	figs-rquestion		0	So what difference does it make if I am very wise?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no benefit to being wise. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “So it makes no difference if I am very wise.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	2	15	l9yw	figs-synecdoche		0	I concluded in my heart	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I concluded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	2	15	b6qt	figs-metaphor		0	is only vapor	“is only mist.” The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were “vapor.” See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “is as useless as vapor” or “is meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	16	ybg8	figs-activepassive		0	For the wise man, like the fool, is not remembered for very long	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People do not remember the wise man for very long, just as they do not remember the fool for very long” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	2	16	h7gz	figs-activepassive		0	everything will have been long forgotten	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will have long forgotten everything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	2	17	few8	figs-activepassive		0	all the work done	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “all the work that people do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	2	17	sek4			0	was evil to me	“troubled me”
ECC	2	17	l4jf	figs-parallelism		0	vapor…an attempt to shepherd the wind	These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	2	17	a874	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	“mist.” The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were “vapor.” See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	17	i7pa	figs-metaphor		0	an attempt to shepherd the wind	The author says everything that people do is as useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	17	y4bh	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	2	18	cl3k			0	to the man who comes after me	“to the man who inherits it after me”
ECC	2	19	gjx9	figs-rquestion		0	For who knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one knows the character the man who will inherit his wealth. Alternate translation: “For no one knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	2	19	je2l			0	he will be	The word “he” refers to the author’s heir.
ECC	2	19	eb64	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	2	19	w9z7	figs-metonymy		0	that my work and wisdom have built	Here the author’s “work” and “wisdom” represent himself and the things he did in his wisdom. He probably had help with the literal buildings. Alternate translation: “that I worked very hard and wisely to build” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	2	19	ud4a	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were mist. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	20	gs18	figs-synecdoche		0	my heart began to despair	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I began to despair” or “I began to lose all hope” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	2	21	j6ge			0	who works with wisdom, with knowledge, and skill	“who works wisely and skillfully, using the things that he has learned”
ECC	2	21	y72q			0	who has not made any of it	“who has not worked for any of it”
ECC	2	21	klw5	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were mist. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	21	j6ur			0	a great tragedy	“a great disaster”
ECC	2	22	k62m	figs-rquestion		0	For what profit does the person gain who works so hard and tries in his heart to complete his labors under the sun?	The author uses a rhetorical question to emphasize that the man who works hard gains nothing. Translate “what profit does…gain” as you did in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “For the person who works so hard and tries in his heart to complete his labors under the sun gains nothing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	2	22	g69d	figs-parallelism		0	works so hard and tries in his heart	These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize how strenuously the person works. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	2	22	t8lp	figs-idiom		0	tries in his heart	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “tries anxiously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	2	22	v87n	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	2	23	b5zv	figs-doublet		0	painful and stressful	These two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize how difficult the person’s work is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	2	23	f3zg	figs-idiom		0	his soul does not find rest	Here man’s mind is referred to as his “soul” to emphasize his deep thoughts. Alternate translation: “his mind does not rest” or “he continues to worry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	2	24	xa3q	figs-metonymy		0	God’s hand	Here God is represented by his “hand” to emphasize how he provides for people. Alternate translation: “from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	2	25	x4m8	figs-rquestion		0	For who can eat or who can have any kind of pleasure apart from God?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no pleasure can be had without God’s provision. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “For no one can eat or have any kind of pleasure apart from God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	2	26	s16q			0	so that he may give it away to someone who pleases God	Possible meanings for the word “he” are 1) God or 2) the sinner. This also can be translated without making it clear who it is that gives the things that the sinner stored. Alternate translation: “so that the one who pleases God may have it”
ECC	2	26	fs9n	figs-parallelism		0	vapor…an attempt to shepherd the wind	These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	2	26	v8zn	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	“mist.” The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were “vapor.” See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	2	26	e7hm	figs-metaphor		0	an attempt to shepherd the wind	The author speaks of everything that people do as being useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	3	intro	a9c1			0		# Ecclesiastes 03 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 3:1-8 and 3:15.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Parallelism<br>The chapter uses parallelism with the phrase, “a time to.” This gives the quotation a poetic style. Their overall purpose is to show that Yahweh directs the events of the world and therefore, they have purpose.<br>
ECC	3	1	q8gz	figs-merism		0	General Information:	The writer uses merisms to describe various aspects of life from one extreme to the other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	3	1	hn82	figs-parallelism		0	For everything there is an appointed time, and a season for every purpose	These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	3	1	s8am	figs-idiom		0	under heaven	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	3	2	ga5b			0	a time to pull up plants	Possible meanings are 1) “a time to harvest” or 2) “a time to uproot.”
ECC	3	4	a5em	figs-merism		0	General Information:	The writer continues with merisms to describe various aspects of life from one extreme to the other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	3	5	yg8l			0	embrace	to hold someone in your arms to show love or friendship
ECC	3	6	az59	figs-merism		0	General Information:	The writer continues with merisms to describe various aspects of life from one extreme to the other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	3	8	f1fu	figs-merism		0	General Information:	The writer concludes using merisms to describe various aspects of life from one extreme to the other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	3	9	q3gk	figs-rquestion		0	What profit does the worker gain in his labor?	This is a thought provoking question to focus the reader on the next discussion topic. Translate “what profit does…gain” as you did in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “The worker gains no profit for his labor.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	3	11	z9kk			0	God has made everything suitable for its own time	“God has fixed a time that is right for everything to happen” or “God has set a time that is right for each thing to happen:
ECC	3	11	k5de	figs-metonymy		0	placed eternity in their hearts	Here the word “their” refers to human beings. Here the “hearts” of the people represent their thoughts and desires. Alternate translation: “placed eternity in the hearts of human beings” or “caused people to think about eternal things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	3	11	jac1	figs-merism		0	from their beginning all the way to their end	This refers to the beginning and the end and all that is in between. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	3	13	cyl8			0	should understand how to enjoy	“should learn how to enjoy” or “should enjoy”
ECC	3	14	w9c2	figs-activepassive		0	Nothing can be added to it or taken away	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “No one can add anything to or take anything away from it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	3	16	iyt8	figs-parallelism		0	I have seen the wickedness…wickedness was there	These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize how common wicked behavior is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	3	16	i932			0	in place of righteousness	“where there should be righteousness”
ECC	3	16	ib3m	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	3	17	h7j6	figs-synecdoche		0	I said in my heart	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	3	17	ar25	figs-nominaladj		0	the righteous and the wicked	This refers to righteous and wicked people. Alternate translation: “those who are righteous and those who are wicked” or “the righteous people and the wicked people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
ECC	3	17	s71g	figs-doublet		0	every matter and every deed	These two phrases mean basically the same thing and refer to every action that people do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	3	18	tst7	figs-synecdoche		0	I said in my heart	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “I said to myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	3	18	uam6	figs-simile		0	they are like animals	Here the author says that human beings are like animals. In the next verse the author explains clearly how humans are like animals. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	3	19	az6d			0	is the same fate for them	“is the same for both of them” or “is the same”
ECC	3	19	i4mv			0	The breath is the same for all of them	“All of them breathe same”
ECC	3	19	y2nd			0	There is no advantage for mankind over the animals	“Mankind is no better off than the animals”
ECC	3	19	q66p	figs-metaphor		0	is not everything just a breath?	Here the author speaks of everything being as temporary as if it were a breath of air. The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that everything is temporary. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Everything is just a breath.” or “Everything is as temporary as a breath.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	3	20	gi8h	figs-explicit		0	Everything is going to the same place	This means that all people and all animals die and decay and become part of the soil. Alternate translation: “Everything dies and goes to the same place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	3	20	d4km			0	dust	soil
ECC	3	21	h8x9	figs-rquestion		0	Who knows whether the spirit…into the earth?	The author asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one truly knows what happens after people and animals die. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one knows whether the spirit…into the earth.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	3	22	h5jm			0	there is nothing better for anyone than to	See how you translated this phrase in [Ecclesiastes 3:12](../03/12.md).
ECC	3	22	lqg2	figs-rquestion		0	Who can bring him back to see what happens after him?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one will see what happens after he dies. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one of us knows what happens to us after we die.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	4	intro	ev1x			0		# Ecclesiastes 04 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 4:1-3, 4:5-6, and 4:8-12.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Irony<br>The teacher looks at the oppression in the world and is saddened by it, but he is the king and has the power to change things. He also laments being alone even though he has many wives, children, and concubines. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/oppress]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lament]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])<br>
ECC	4	1	cuy2	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	4	1	ys32			0	behold, the tears	“I looked and I saw”
ECC	4	1	zp3i	figs-metonymy		0	the tears of oppressed people	Here “tears” represent weeping. Alternate translation: “the oppressed people were weeping” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	4	1	c1sv	figs-metonymy		0	Power was in the hand of their oppressors	This means that their oppressors were powerful. Here their “hand” represents what thet possess. Alternate translation: “Their oppressors were powerful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	4	2	g9pt	figs-parallelism		0	the living, who are still alive	The word “living” is a nominal adjective that refers to people who are living. The phrase “those who are still alive” means the same thing as “the living.” Alternate translation: “the people who are still alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
ECC	4	3	ekt2			0	more fortunate than both of them is the one who has not yet lived	“the one who has not yet been born is better off than both of them”
ECC	4	3	q72x	figs-explicit		0	both of them	This refers to those who are dead and to those who are alive. Alternate translation: “both those who are dead and those who are living” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	4	3	hua5	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	4	4	y7i7	figs-abstractnouns		0	became the envy of one’s neighbor	The word “envy” may be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “made one’s neighbor envious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	4	4	u7wt			0	the envy of one’s neighbor	possible meanings are 1) The neighbor envies the object his neighbor made, or 2) the neighbor envies the skills his neighbor has.
ECC	4	4	e19x	figs-parallelism		0	vapor…an attempt to shepherd the wind	These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	4	4	u3t7	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	“mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	4	4	m36w	figs-metaphor		0	an attempt to shepherd the wind	The author speaks of everything that people do as being useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	4	5	vfv8	translate-symaction		0	The fool folds his hands and does not work	To fold the hands is a gesture of laziness and is another way of saying that the person refuses to work. Alternate translation: “The fool refuses to work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	4	5	b92h	figs-metaphor		0	so his food is his own flesh	This speaks of a person destroying himself as if he were eating his own body. Alternate translation: “as a result, he causes his own ruin” or “and as a result, he destroys himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	4	6	n1d9			0	a handful	“a small amount”
ECC	4	6	mw6l	figs-ellipsis		0	two handfuls	“a large amount.” It is understood that this refer to profit gained. Alternate translation: “two handfuls of profit” or “a large amount of profit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
ECC	4	6	se1l	figs-metaphor		0	that tries to shepherd the wind	The author speaks of everything that people do as being useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated a similar phrase in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “that is as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	4	7	civ1			0	futility	being useless, without profit
ECC	4	7	w5f8	figs-metaphor		0	more vanishing vapor	“more vanishing mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated “vapor” in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “more things that are as useless as vapor” or “more meaningless things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	4	7	w5st	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	4	7	x1r1	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	“mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	4	8	a3v5	figs-explicit		0	no son or brother	This person has no family. Alternate translation: “he has no family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	4	8	np2n	figs-synecdoche		0	his eyes are not satisfied	Here the whole person is represented by his “eyes” to emphasize his desires. Alternate translation: “he is not satisfied” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	4	8	cx1e			0	For whom am I toiling and depriving myself of pleasure	“Will anyone benefit from me working hard and not enjoying myself”
ECC	4	10	r5m2	figs-personification		0	sorrow follows the one who is alone when he falls	Here sorrow is spoken of as if it were a person that could follow someone else. Alternate translation: “the one who is alone when he falls is sorrowful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ECC	4	11	b486	figs-explicit		0	If two lie down together, they can be warm	The writer speaks of two people keeping each other warm on a cold night. Alternate translation: “If two people lie down together at night, they can be warm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	4	11	b6yw	figs-rquestion		0	how can one be warm alone?	This refers to a person lying down. The author use this rhetorical question to emphasize that two people can keep each other warm but one person cannot. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “a person cannot be warm when he is alone.” or “a person who lies down alone cannot be warm.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
ECC	4	12	cj73	figs-activepassive		0	One man alone can be overpowered	This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone can overpower a person who is alone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	4	12	aq3c			0	but two	“but two people”
ECC	4	12	r98s			0	withstand an attack	“defend themselves against an attack”
ECC	4	12	mg67	figs-metaphor		0	a three-strand rope	This speaks of three people together being stronger as if they were a three-strand rope. Alternate translation: “three people are even stronger, like a three-strand rope that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	4	12	iur4	figs-activepassive		0	a three-strand rope is not quickly broken	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people cannot easily break a rope made with three strands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	4	13	uhs1			0	wise youth	“wise young man”
ECC	4	13	uye4	figs-metonymy		0	who no longer knows how	Here knowing represents willingness. Alternate translation: “who is no longer willing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	4	14	k5lm			0	from prison	“after being in prison”
ECC	4	14	xu6r	figs-explicit		0	he was born poor in his kingdom	This means that he had poor parents. Alternate translation: “he was born to poor parents who lived in the land that he will someday rule” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	4	15	l8cp			0	General Information:	Instead of choosing the wise youth, the people choose the king’s son, who may not be any wiser.
ECC	4	15	pj25	figs-parallelism		0	alive…walking around	The words “alive” and “walking around” mean basically the same thing and are combined to emphasize living people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	4	15	s7r7	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	4	16	rru3	figs-hyperbole		0	There is no end to all the people	This is an exaggeration used to emphasize a large number of people. Alternate translation: “There are very many people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
ECC	4	16	xk33	figs-parallelism		0	vapor…an attempt to shepherd the wind	These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	4	16	xp58	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	“mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	4	16	l1y1	figs-metaphor		0	an attempt to shepherd the wind	The author speaks of everything that people do as being useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	5	intro	p4zf			0		# Ecclesiastes 05 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 5:2-3, and 5:10-17.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Materialism<br>The author describes the pointlessness of pursuing material things. This is known as “materialism.” Those who pursue after things will always want more. At the end of their life, they will not be able to use these things.<br>
ECC	5	1	h4uf	figs-metonymy		0	Guard your steps	Here “steps” are a metonym for a person’s conduct. Alternate translation: “Be careful how you conduct yourself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	5	2	k5is	figs-parallelism		0	Do not be too quick…do not let your heart be too quick	These two phrases mean the same thing and emphasize that you should think first before you speak to God about a matter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	5	2	s9ue			0	to speak with your mouth	Here the phrase “with your mouth” emphasizes and describes a person speaking. Alternate translation: “to speak”
ECC	5	2	ucz2	figs-synecdoche		0	do not let your heart	Here a person is represented by his “heart” to emphasize his emotions and desires. Alternate translation: “do not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	5	2	g7vv			0	let your words be few	“do not say too much”
ECC	5	4	isy3	figs-explicit		0	do not delay to do it, for God has no pleasure in fools	It is implied that it is foolish to delay in fulfilling a vow that you have made to God. Alternate translation: “do not foolishly delay in doing it, because God is not pleased with foolish people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	5	6	l6vb	figs-metonymy		0	Do not allow your mouth to cause your flesh to sin	Here a person’s “mouth” represents a person’s speech, and the person himself is represented by his “flesh.” Alternate translation: “Do not let what you say cause you to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	5	6	l7nd	figs-rquestion		0	Why make God angry by vowing falsely, provoking God to destroy the work of your hands?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that it is foolish to make a vow that you will not keep. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “It would be foolish to make God angry by vowing falsely, provoking God to destroy the work of your hands.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	5	6	mi3z	figs-synecdoche		0	destroy the work of your hands	Here a person is represented by his “hands.” Alternate translation: “destroy everything you do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	5	7	r95z	figs-metaphor		0	For in many dreams, as in many words, there is meaningless vapor	The author speaks of things as being useless and futile as if they were vapor. See how you translated “vapor” in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “For many dreams and many words are as useless as vapor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	5	8	jdl4	figs-activepassive		0	the poor being oppressed and robbed	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people oppressing the poor and robbing them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	5	8	x1rp	figs-nominaladj		0	the poor	This refers to poor people. Alternate translation: “those who are poor” or “poor people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
ECC	5	8	h98m	figs-doublet		0	just and right treatment	The words “just” and “right” mean basically the same thing and refer to the kind of treatment that people deserve. Alternate translation: “fair treatment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	5	8	d57b			0	do not be astonished as if no one knows, because there are people	“do not be surprised, for there are people
ECC	5	8	kr4z			0	there are people in power	“there are people with authority”
ECC	5	8	v44r	figs-idiom		0	even higher ones over them	There are other men who rule over the men in authority. Alternate translation: “men who have even more authority than they do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	5	9	uc5e	figs-abstractnouns		0	the produce of the land…produce from the fields	The word “produce” may be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “the food that the land produces…crops from the fields” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	5	10	kh3l	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were mist. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	5	11	md9b	figs-abstractnouns		0	As prosperity increases	The word “prosperity” may be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “As a person becomes more prosperous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	5	11	xh2w			0	so also do the people who consume it	Possible meanings are 1) “so also the person spends more money” or 2) “so also there will be more people who use his wealth.”
ECC	5	11	ncz7	figs-metaphor		0	who consume it	This speaks of people spending wealth as if they were “eating” it. Alternate translation: “who use it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	5	11	c2dc	figs-rquestion		0	What advantage in wealth is there to the owner except to watch it with his eyes?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that the wealthy do not benefit from their wealth. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “The only benefit that the owner has from wealth is that he can look at it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	5	12	d52v	figs-metaphor		0	The sleep of a working man is sweet	This speaks of a person’s sleep being fulfilling and peaceful as if it were sweet like something he eats. Alternate translation: “The sleep of a working man is peaceful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	5	12	dr7p			0	whether he eats little or a lot	“whether he eats a little bit of food or a lot of food”
ECC	5	12	u4e4	figs-personification		0	but the wealth of a rich person does not allow him to sleep well	“but the wealth of a rich person keeps him awake at night.” This speaks of a rich person not being able to sleep because he is worried about his money as if his money were a person that would not allow him to sleep. Alternate translation: “but rich people do not sleep well because they worry about their money” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ECC	5	13	m4vd	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	5	13	j6b2	figs-activepassive		0	riches hoarded by the owner	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “an owner hoards riches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	5	14	d5n4			0	through bad luck	Possible meanings are 1) “through misfortune” or 2) “through a bad business deal.”
ECC	5	14	zb1u	figs-metonymy		0	his own son, one whom he has fathered, is left with nothing in his hands	Here the phrase “in his hands” represents ownership. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he leaves no possession for his own son” (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	5	15	it6k	figs-metaphor		0	As a man comes from his mother’s womb…he will leave naked	It is implied that a man is naked when he is born. In addition to being without clothing, here the word “naked” emphasizes that people are born without any possessions. Alternate translation: “As a man is naked and owns nothing when he is born…he will leave this life the same way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	5	15	wl6z			0	comes from his mother’s womb	“is born”
ECC	5	15	zl7h	figs-euphemism		0	he will leave	This refers to dying. Alternate translation: “he will die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
ECC	5	15	fe51	figs-metonymy		0	He can take none of the fruits of his labor in his hand	Here a man’s possessions are spoken of as if they are fruit that he grew with his labor. Alternate translation: “He can not take any of his possessions with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	5	16	qd7u	figs-explicit		0	as a person comes, so he goes away	This refers to the birth and death of a person and expresses the same idea as the previous verse. This refers to women as well as men. Alternate translation: “as people bring nothing into the world when they are born, so they take nothing with them when they die and leave this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
ECC	5	16	h3bb	figs-rquestion		0	So what profit is there for him who works for the wind?	The writer uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no benefit in working for the wind. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one gets any profit in working for the wind.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	5	16	dl4p	figs-metaphor		0	works for the wind	Possible meanings are 1) This speaks of the person receiving no lasting profit as if he were trying to control the wind. Alternate translation: “tries to shepherd the wind” or “work that is as useless as trying to shepherd the wind” or 2) This implies that the person only receives the air that he breaths as his profit. Alternate translation: “works to receive the air he breathes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	5	17	x449	figs-metaphor		0	During his days he eats with darkness	This speaks of a person mourning throughout his life as if he always ate in darkness. Here “darkness” represents sadness and mourning. Alternate translation: “He spends his life in mourning and sadness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	5	17	rys5	figs-metonymy		0	his days	Here a person’s “days” represent his life. Alternate translation: “his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	5	17	zw6w	figs-abstractnouns		0	is greatly distressed with sickness and anger	The words “sickness” and “anger” can be expressed as adjectives. Alternate translation: “suffers greatly, being sick and angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	5	18	k7uq	figs-idiom		0	Look	The author uses this word here to draw his reader’s attention to what he says next. Alternate translation: “Pay attention” or “Listen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	5	18	qp65	figs-doublet		0	what I have seen to be good and suitable	Here the words “good” and “suitable” mean basically the same thing. The second intensifies the meaning of the first. Alternate translation: “what I have seen to be the best thing to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	5	18	ue88	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	5	18	m281	figs-idiom		0	during the days of this life that God has given us	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “as long as God allows us to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	5	18	ued7			0	For this is man’s assignment	Possible meanings are 1) “For this is man’s reward” or 2) “For these are the things that he allows man to do”
ECC	5	19	n4ka	figs-doublet		0	riches and wealth	These two words mean basically the same thing. They refer to money and the things that a person can buy with money. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	5	19	b3ld			0	to receive his share	“to accept what he is given”
ECC	5	20	iz9m	figs-idiom		0	he does not call to mind	Here the word “he” refers to the person to whom God has given a gift. The phrase “call to mind” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “he does not remember” or “he does not think about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	5	20	qr1s	figs-idiom		0	the days of his life	This refers to the things that happened during his lifetime. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the things that have happened during his lifetime” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	5	20	n32s			0	keep busy	“stay busy”
ECC	6	intro	ar6e			0		# Ecclesiastes 06 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 6:7-11.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Satisfaction<br>While a person may be given a great many things, they are worthless and provide no sense of satisfaction or peace. It is assumed that only Yahweh can provide these things to man. Solomon is depressed that he had everything he could have ever wanted in life, but they were not enough to give him satisfaction or peace. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
ECC	6	1	fyq4	figs-metaphor		0	it weighs heavy on men	Here evil is spoken of as something that is a heavy load to carry. Alternate translation: “it causes hardship for people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	6	2	jzl7	figs-doublet		0	riches, wealth	These two words mean basically the same thing. They refer to money and the things that a person can buy with money. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	6	2	n75e	figs-doublenegatives		0	he lacks nothing	This is a double negative. Alternate translation: “he has everything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
ECC	6	2	rg6q			0	God gives him no ability	“does not give him the ability”
ECC	6	2	jr84	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were mist. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	6	3	qq8e	translate-numbers		0	fathers a hundred children	“fathers 100 children.” This is a hypothetical situation. This is also an exaggeration and is applicable to people with fewer than 100 children. Alternate translation: “fathers many children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
ECC	6	3	z9ls	figs-parallelism		0	lives many years, so that the days of his years are many	These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. Alternate translation: “lives many years” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	6	3	fun6	figs-synecdoche		0	his heart is not satisfied with good	This refers to a man by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. Alternate translation: “he is not content with good things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	6	3	qmh2	figs-activepassive		0	he is not buried	This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) “no one buries him at all” or 2) he receives no honor, “no one buries him properly.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] or [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	6	4	g8un			0	such a baby is born in futility	“such a baby is born for nothing”
ECC	6	4	tr53	figs-idiom		0	passes away in darkness	This speaks of the death of the baby being as unexplainable as “darkness.” Alternate translation: “dies unexplainably” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	6	4	xfu5	figs-metaphor		0	its name remains hidden	This speaks of no one knowing the baby’s name as if it were a hidden object. Alternate translation: “no one knows its name” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	6	6	iz6f	figs-hypo		0	Even if a man should live for two thousand years	This is a hypothetical situation. This is also an exaggeration to show that it does not matter how long a person lives if he does not enjoy the good things in life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
ECC	6	6	sa97	translate-numbers		0	two thousand years	“2,000 years” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
ECC	6	6	g8tb	figs-explicit		0	he goes to the same place as everyone else	This means that he dies like all other people. Alternate translation: “he dies and go to the same place as everyone else” or “he goes to the grave just like everyone else” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	6	7	wf5f	figs-metonymy		0	is for his mouth	Here putting food in a man’s mouth represents feeding him. Alternate translation: “is to put food in his mouth” or “is to feed him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	6	7	lc2f	figs-activepassive		0	his appetite is not satisfied	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he does not satisfy his appetite” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	6	8	syz9	figs-rquestion		0	what advantage has the wise person over the fool?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that a wise person does not have any more lasting benefits than a fool. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “it seems the wise person has no advantage over the fool.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	6	8	gse4	figs-rquestion		0	What advantage does the poor man have even if he knows how to act in front of other people?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that a poor man does not have any more lasting benefits than someone else. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “The poor man has no advantage even if he knows how to act in front of other people.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	6	8	zy1l			0	how to act	“how to conduct himself”
ECC	6	9	ays9	figs-metonymy		0	what the eyes see	A person can see these things because he already has them. Alternate translation: “what a person has” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	6	9	xhe8	figs-metonymy		0	to desire what a wandering appetite craves	This refers to things that a person wants but does not have. Alternate translation: “to want what he does not have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	6	9	n6mw	figs-parallelism		0	vapor…an attempt to shepherd the wind	These two phrases are both metaphors that emphasize the idea of things being useless and futile. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	6	9	f92y	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	“mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were vapor. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	6	9	qai8	figs-metaphor		0	an attempt to shepherd the wind	The author speaks of everything that people do as being useless as if they were trying to control the wind. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “are as useless as trying to control the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	6	10	vs8g	figs-activepassive		0	Whatever has existed has already been given its name	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People have already named everything that exists” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	6	10	f9hg	figs-activepassive		0	what mankind is like has already been known	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people already know what mankind is like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	6	10	uy4z			0	the one who is the mighty judge	“God, who is the mighty judge”
ECC	6	11	l9d5	figs-activepassive		0	The more words that are spoken	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The more words that people speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	6	11	pz7h			0	the more futility increases	The more a person speaks, the more likely he will speak about meaningless things. Alternate translation: “the more meaningless those words are”
ECC	6	11	s51v			0	futility	being useless, without profit
ECC	6	11	pq2r	figs-rquestion		0	what advantage is that to a man?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no advantage for a man to talk a lot. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “that is no advantage to a man.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	6	12	cb4r	figs-rquestion		0	For who knows what is good for man…he passes like a shadow?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no person truly knows what is good for man. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one knows what is good for man…he passes like a shadow.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	6	12	jj23	figs-simile		0	in his life during his futile, numbered days through which he passes like a shadow	This speaks of how life passes quickly by saying that it is like a shadow that quickly disappears. The phrase “numbered days” emphasizes that a person’s life is short. Alternate translation: “during his futile, short life, which he passes through as quickly as a shadow passes by” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	6	12	ka2l	figs-rquestion		0	Who can tell a man…after he passes?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one knows what will happen after a person dies. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can tell a man…after he passes.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	6	12	pjl3	figs-idiom		0	what will come under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated “under the sun” in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “what will happen on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	6	12	k2ab	figs-euphemism		0	after he passes	This is a polite expression for death. Alternate translation: “after he dies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
ECC	7	intro	fp2g			0		# Ecclesiastes 07 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 7:1-26.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Advice<br>This chapter gives a series of disconnected pieces of advice. Translators should not try to smooth the transitions between these pieces of advice. The advice in these statements do not apply in every situation. Therefore, they should be seen as “good ideas.”<br>
ECC	7	1	fq9e	figs-metonymy		0	A good name	Here a person’s “name” is used to represent their reputation. Alternate translation: “A good reputation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	7	2	y1yx	figs-idiom		0	must take this to heart	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “must think seriously about this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	7	3	g9c7	figs-idiom		0	sadness of face	This refers to being sad. Alternate translation: “an experience that makes a person sad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	7	3	rsl9	figs-metonymy		0	gladness of heart	Here the word “heart” refers to a person’s thoughts and emotions. “Gladness” describes either 1) the state of the emotions of being happy and peaceful or 2) the ability to understand the truth. Alternate translation: “right thinking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	7	4	pli9	figs-synecdoche		0	The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning	Here wise people are referred to by their “hearts.” This speaks of the wise person mourning as being in a house of mourning. Alternate translation: “Wise people think deeply about death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	7	4	lly7	figs-synecdoche		0	but the heart of fools is in the house of feasting	Here foolish people are referred to by their “hearts.” This speaks of foolish people thinking only about what makes them happy as being in a house of feasting. Alternate translation: “but foolish people think only about enjoying themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	7	4	ux5g			0	the house of mourning…the house of feasting	These phrases refer to what happens in these places.
ECC	7	5	wm3y	figs-abstractnouns		0	to the rebuke of the wise	The word “rebuke” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “when wise people rebuke you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	7	5	lal6			0	to listen to the song of fools	“to listen to fools sing”
ECC	7	6	bh8q	figs-simile		0	For like the crackling of thorns burning under a pot, so also is the laughter of fools	This speaks of how listening to fools talk and laugh will teach you nothing, as if their speech and laughter were the sound of burning thorns. Alternate translation: “For listening to the laughter of fools will not teach a man any more than if he were listening to the crackling of thorns burning under a pot” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	7	6	im4x	figs-metaphor		0	vapor	The author speaks of useless and meaningless things as if they were mist. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “as useless as vapor” or “meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	7	7	be8y			0	Extortion	This refers to forcing someone to give money or other valuable items to another so that the other person does not harm him. It is considered wrong.
ECC	7	7	dt3e			0	makes a wise man foolish	Possible meanings are 1) “turns the wise man into a foolish man” or 2) “makes the advice of the wise man appear to be foolish advice.”
ECC	7	7	n3hs	figs-metonymy		0	corrupts the heart	Here the word “heart” refers to the mind. Alternate translation: “ruins a person’s ability to think and judge rightly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	7	8	bw3c	figs-metonymy		0	the people patient in spirit are better than the proud in spirit	Here the word “spirit” refers to a person’s attitude. Alternate translation: “patient people are better than proud people” or “a patient attitude is better than a prideful attitude” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	7	9	lb8v	figs-metonymy		0	Do not be quick to anger in your spirit	Here the word “spirit” refers to a person’s attitude. Alternate translation: “Do not become angry quickly” or “Do not have a bad temper” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	7	9	fx66	figs-metaphor		0	anger resides in the hearts of fools	This speaks of a person being full of anger as if the anger lived inside him. This speaks of the anger being in the person’s heart because the “heart” is thought to be the source of a person’s emotions. Alternate translation: “foolish people are full of anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	7	10	mu3y	figs-rquestion		0	Why were the days of old better than these?	The person asks this rhetorical question in order to complain about the present time. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Things were better in the past than they are now.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	7	10	r6bl	figs-irony		0	it is not because of wisdom that you ask this question	Here the author uses irony to rebuke the person’s question. Alternate translation: “if you were wise you would not ask this question” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
ECC	7	11	w53h	figs-idiom		0	those who see the sun	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “those who are alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	7	12	wt8d			0	the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom gives life	Possible meanings are 1) that the writer uses the words “knowledge” and “wisdom” to mean the same thing, or 2) “the advantage of knowing wisdom is that it gives life.”
ECC	7	12	erb5	figs-personification		0	gives life to whoever has it	This speaks of how wisdom helps to preserve a person’s life as if it gave life to that person. When a person is wise he makes good decisions that help him to live a more prosperous and longer life. Alternate translation: “preserves a person’s life” or “helps a person to make good decisions and to live a longer life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ECC	7	13	x6a8	figs-rquestion		0	Who can straighten out anything he has made crooked?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that no one can change something that God has done. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can straighten out anything he has made crooked.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	7	14	iig7	figs-idiom		0	When times are good…when times are bad	The word “times” is an idiom for “things happening.” Alternate translation: “When good things happen…when bad things happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	7	14	ab9b			0	live happily in that good	“be happy about those good things”
ECC	7	14	c4j4	figs-idiom		0	both to exist side by side	The phrase “side by side” is an idiom that means “this one” and “this one.” Alternate translation: “both to exist” or “there to be both good and bad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	7	14	ey3r			0	anything that is coming after him	Possible meanings are 1) “anything that happens in the future” or 2) “anything that happens to him after he dies.”
ECC	7	15	q493			0	in my meaningless days	“in my meaningless life”
ECC	7	15	vy5k			0	in spite of their righteousness	“even though they are righteous”
ECC	7	15	la4s			0	in spite of their evil	“even though they are evil”
ECC	7	16	ux2c	figs-parallelism		0	self-righteous, wise in your own eyes	These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	7	16	p2av			0	Do not be self-righteous	“Do not think that you are more righteous than you actually are”
ECC	7	16	n342	figs-metaphor		0	wise in your own eyes	The eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “being wise in your own opinion” or “being wise according to your own judgement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	7	16	tc29	figs-rquestion		0	Why should you destroy yourself?	The writer uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that being self-righteous destroys a person. Alternate translation: “There is no reason to destroy yourself.” or “If you think this way you will destroy yourself.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	7	17	s5mm	figs-rquestion		0	Why should you die before your time?	The author uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that there is no reason for people to do things that will cause them to die early. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is no reason for you to die sooner than you should.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	7	18	u3fa	figs-metaphor		0	take hold of this wisdom	This speaks of striving to be wise as if “wisdom” were an object that a person could hold on to. Alternate translation: “commit yourself to this wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	7	18	p1xy	figs-metaphor		0	you should not let go of righteousness	This speaks of striving to be righteous as if “righteousness” were an object that a person could hold on to. Alternate translation: “you should not stop trying to be righteous” or “you should keep trying to be righteous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	7	18	m73i			0	will meet all his obligations	“will do everything that God expects of him”
ECC	7	19	ugu9			0	Wisdom is powerful in the wise man, more than ten rulers in a city	“Wisdom makes a man powerful; it makes him more powerful than ten rulers in a city”
ECC	7	20	uf5z			0	does good and never sins	“does good things and does not sin”
ECC	7	21	q4dk	figs-activepassive		0	every word that is spoken	This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “everything that people say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	7	22	wq73	figs-rpronouns		0	you know yourself	“you yourself know.” Here “yourself” is used to emphasize the phrase “you know.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
ECC	7	22	t45l	figs-metonymy		0	in your own heart	Here a person’s thoughts are represented by their “heart.” Alternate translation: “in your own thoughts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	7	23	ix7d	figs-explicit		0	All this have I proven	here the word “this” refers to all of the things the author has written about. Alternate translation: “All this that I have already written about have I proven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	7	23	fw1m			0	it was more than I could be	“it was beyond my ability to understand” or “but I was not able to do it”
ECC	7	24	y2i9	figs-idiom		0	far off and very deep	This speaks of wisdom being difficult to understand as if it were something located far away or in a very deep place. Alternate translation: “difficult to understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	7	24	p3a6	figs-rquestion		0	Who can find it?	The writer uses this rhetorical question to emphasize the difficulty in understanding wisdom. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can understand it.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	7	25	l5xj	figs-metonymy		0	I turned my heart	Here the word “heart” refers to the mind. Also, here the word “turned” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “I directed my thoughts” or “I determined” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	7	25	p2l6	figs-abstractnouns		0	the explanations of reality	“the reason for things.” This word “explanations” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “how to explain various things in life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	7	26	p367	figs-metaphor		0	any woman whose heart is full of snares and nets, and whose hands are chains	The writer says that the seductive woman is like traps that hunters use to catch animals. The author speaks of a woman being seductive as if she traps men like a hunter traps animals. Her “heart” represents her thoughts and emotions. Alternate translation: “any woman who traps men by seducing them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	7	26	lxk1	figs-doublet		0	snares and nets	These two words both refer to ways in which people trap animals to emphasize how the woman traps men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
ECC	7	26	kh37	figs-metaphor		0	whose hands are chains	Here the word “hands” refers to her power and control. This speaks of her being seductive as if hands were chains that she bound people with. Alternate translation: “from whom no one can escape” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	7	26	h6z9	figs-activepassive		0	the sinner will be taken by her	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “she will capture the sinner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	7	27	vsz7	figs-abstractnouns		0	adding one discovery to another	The word “discovery” can be expressed as a verb. The word “adding” here is used as an idiom. Alternate translation: “discovering one thing after another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	7	27	k9h2	figs-abstractnouns		0	in order to find an explanation of reality	This word “explanation” can be expressed as a verb. See how the phrase “explanations of reality” is translated in [Ecclesiastes 7:25](../07/25.md). Alternate translation: “in order to be able to explain things in life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	7	28	twu8	translate-numbers		0	one righteous man among a thousand	“1 righteous man among 1,000.” Only one righteous man was found in a group of 1,000 people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
ECC	7	28	xkw3			0	a woman among all those	There were no righteous women found in a group of 1,000 people.
ECC	7	29	dra3			0	they have gone away looking for many difficulties	Possible meanings are 1) “they have made many sinful plans” or 2) “they have made their own lives difficult.”
ECC	7	29	e78n	figs-metaphor		0	they have gone away	Here the word “they” refers to “humanity.” This speaks of humanity changing from being upright to not being upright as if they were going from one place to another. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	8	intro	g2ul			0		# Ecclesiastes 08 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 8:1 and 8:5-8.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Wisdom<br>Solomon, known for his wisdom, gives a detailed description of wisdom. True wisdom is seeking to honor God. This is the only thing that lasts. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]])<br>
ECC	8	1	sfc8			0	Who is a wise man? Who knows what the events in life mean?	The writer asks these as leading questions to provide the answer in what he says next.
ECC	8	1	v1sf	figs-idiom		0	causes his face to shine	This means that the person’s face will show that he has wisdom. Alternate translation: “shows on his face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	8	1	e5zq	figs-idiom		0	the hardness of his face	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “his harsh appearance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	8	1	beu2	figs-activepassive		0	is changed	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “changes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	8	2	ig6x			0	God’s oath to protect him	“the oath you made before God to protect him”
ECC	8	3	jz73	figs-metaphor		0	Do not hurry out of his presence	Possible meanings are 1) not to be hasty to physically leave the king’s presence or 2) This is a metaphor that speaks of being loyal to the king as being in his presence. Alternate translation: “Do not abandon the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	8	4	mc7i			0	The king’s word rules	“What the king says is the law”
ECC	8	4	k14s	figs-rquestion		0	who will say to him	This rhetorical question emphasizes that no one will ask the king the following question. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “no one can say to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	8	4	fn4s	figs-rquestion		0	What are you doing?	This rhetorical question is a rebuke. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not be doing what you are doing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	8	5	v9wu	figs-synecdoche		0	A wise man’s heart recognizes	Here a man is represented by his “heart” to emphasize his thoughts. Alternate translation: “A wise man recognizes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	8	5	qc3y			0	the proper course and time of action	“the correct time to do things and the right way to do them”
ECC	8	7	l5bd	figs-rquestion		0	Who can tell him what is coming?	This rhetorical question emphasizes that no one knows what will happen in the future. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can tell him what is coming.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	8	8	md5b	figs-simile		0	No one is ruler over his breath so as to stop the breath…no one has power over the day of his death	Just as no one has the ability to stop himself from breathing, no one can continue living when it is time to die. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	8	8	vd1v			0	No one is ruler	The word “ruler” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “No one has control”
ECC	8	8	np67	figs-idiom		0	the day of his death	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “when he will die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	8	8	blf2	figs-activepassive		0	No one is discharged from the army	This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “No army discharges anyone” or “No army allows soldiers to leave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	8	8	tfi8	figs-personification		0	wickedness will not rescue those who are its slaves	This speaks of wickedness as if it were a master who had slaves. Alternate translation: “evil people will not be saved by doing what is evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ECC	8	9	m5md	figs-synecdoche		0	I have applied my heart	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:17](../01/17.md). Alternate translation: “I applied myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	8	9	k1ch	figs-activepassive		0	every kind of work that is done	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “every kind of work that people do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	8	9	jnb1	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	8	9	d2gx			0	There is a time when a person oppresses another person to that person’s hurt	“Sometimes one person will oppress another, causing that person to be hurt”
ECC	8	10	a8np	figs-activepassive		0	the wicked buried publicly	This can be stated in active form. Evil people that died were given honorable burials. Alternate translation: “people bury the wicked publicly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	8	10	gw4a	figs-activepassive		0	They were taken from the holy area and buried and were praised by people	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People took them from the holy area and buried them and praised them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	8	11	fl29	figs-activepassive		0	When a sentence against an evil crime is not executed quickly	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When people in authority do not quickly execute a sentence against an evil crime” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	8	11	k6a9	figs-synecdoche		0	entices the hearts of human beings	Here people are represented by their “hearts” to emphasize their will and desires. Alternate translation: “entices human beings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	8	12	ty8m	translate-numbers		0	a hundred times	“100 times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
ECC	8	12	mh1j	figs-idiom		0	it will be better for those who respect God	The phrase “it will be better” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “life will be better for those who respect God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	8	12	x5tl	figs-parallelism		0	who respect God…who stand before him and show him respect	These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined to emphasize people respecting God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	8	13	y6mk	figs-activepassive		0	his life will not be prolonged	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will not prolong his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	8	13	jsa6	figs-simile		0	His days are like a fleeting shadow	This speaks of how the wicked man’s life passes quickly by saying that it is like a shadow that quickly disappears. Alternate translation: “His days will pass as quickly as a shadow disappears” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	8	13	e7yl			0	His days are	“His life is”
ECC	8	14	e2e2	figs-activepassive		0	something else that is done on the earth	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “something else that people do on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	8	14	vn88	figs-metaphor		0	this also is useless vapor	“this also is useless mist.” The author speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were ‘vapor.’ See how you translated the word “vapor” in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “this also is as useless as vapor” or “this also is meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	8	15	e8jj	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	8	15	n76x	figs-idiom		0	for all the days of his life that God has given him	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “for as long as God allows him to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	8	16	q9us	figs-synecdoche		0	I applied my heart	Here the author refers to himself by his “heart” to emphasize his feelings. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:17](../01/17.md). Alternate translation: “I applied myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	8	16	d9sa	figs-activepassive		0	the work that is done on the earth	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the work that people do on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	8	16	ct32	figs-synecdoche		0	without sleep for the eyes	Here a person is represented by his “eyes.” Alternate translation: “without sleeping” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	8	17	vk1q	figs-activepassive		0	the work that is done under the sun	Possible meanings are 1) “the work that God does under the sun” or 2) “the work that God allows people to do under the sun.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	8	17	gl2w	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	9	intro	j3kr			0		# Ecclesiastes 09 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 9:2, 5-6, and 11-12.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Judgment<br>This chapter explains that there is one thing that awaits all people: judgment. When people die, they will all face Yahweh’s judgment. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])<br>
ECC	9	1	hpl4			0	I thought about all this in my mind	“I thought very deeply about all this”
ECC	9	1	dt8e			0	They are all in God’s hands	Here the word “they” refers to “the righteous and wise people” as well as “their deeds.”
ECC	9	1	l7sr	figs-metonymy		0	in God’s hands	Here the word “hands” refers to power and authority. Alternate translation: “under God’s control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	9	1	ubx9	figs-personification		0	whether love or hate will come to someone	This speaks of “love” and “hate” as if they are people that may come to visit someone else. Alternate translation: “whether someone will experience love or hate” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ECC	9	2	j1u2	figs-merism		0	righteous people and wicked	This refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of righteous and wicked people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	9	2	pff6	figs-nominaladj		0	wicked…the good…the clean and the unclean	All of these phrases refer to people. Alternate translation: “wicked people…good people…clean people and unclean people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
ECC	9	2	y27f	figs-merism		0	the clean and the unclean	This refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of clean and unclean people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	9	2	yje9	figs-metaphor		0	the clean	A person who is acceptable for God’s purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically clean. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	9	2	k7ls	figs-metaphor		0	the unclean	A person who is not acceptable for God’s purposes is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	9	2	vsk6	figs-merism		0	the one who sacrifices and the one who does not sacrifice	This refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of those who sacrifice and those who do not. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	9	2	lu29	figs-merism		0	As good people…so also will the sinner	This refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of good people and sinners. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	9	2	d65f	figs-ellipsis		0	will the sinner…will the man who fears to make an oath	It is understood that this refers to people dying. Alternate translation: “the sinner will die…the man who fears to make an oath will die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
ECC	9	2	v2sh	figs-merism		0	the one who swears…so also will the man who fears to make an oath	This refers to all people, emphasizing the two opposites of those who swear oaths and those who do not.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	9	3	f3q9	figs-activepassive		0	everything that is done	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “everything that happens” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	9	3	cz36	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	9	3	ex39			0	the same event	death
ECC	9	3	vf5k	figs-metonymy		0	The hearts of human beings are full of evil, and madness is in their hearts	Here the word “hearts” refers to the thoughts and emotions. Alternate translation: “Human beings are full of evil, and their thoughts are of madness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	9	3	zyc7			0	madness	“folly”
ECC	9	3	ha8w	figs-nominaladj		0	they go to the dead	The phrase “the dead” refers to dead people. Here dead people represent the place where people go after they die. Alternate translation: “they go to the place where dead people are” or “they die and go to the grave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	9	4	a4uf	figs-nominaladj		0	the living	This refers to people who are alive. Alternate translation: “who are alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
ECC	9	4	s9jy	figs-simile		0	just as a living dog is better than a dead lion	A “dog” was considered a lowly animal while a lion was considered a noble animal. This speaks of it being better to be lowly and alive than to be considered noble and dead. Alternate translation: “It is better to be lowly like a dog and to be alive than to be noble like a lion and to be dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	9	5	tg7a	figs-nominaladj		0	the dead	This refers to people who are dead. Alternate translation: “those who are dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
ECC	9	5	sb9p	figs-activepassive		0	their memory is forgotten	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will forget them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	9	6	sd1b			0	Their love, hatred, and envy	This refers to the love, hatred, and envy that the dead people showed others when they were alive.
ECC	9	6	h1ux	figs-activepassive		0	anything done	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “anything that people do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	9	6	wdd9	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	9	7	r3f2	figs-parallelism		0	eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a happy heart	These two phrases share similar meanings and emphasize the importance of enjoying the basic activities of life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	9	7	al9q	figs-synecdoche		0	your bread	This refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “your food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	9	7	upb4	figs-metonymy		0	drink your wine with a happy heart	Here the word “heart” refers to the emotions. Alternate translation: “drink your wine joyfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	9	8	zd1x	translate-symaction		0	Let your clothes be always white and your head anointed with oil	Wearing white clothes and anointing one’s head with oil were both signs of gladness and celebration. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
ECC	9	8	weg3	figs-activepassive		0	your head anointed with oil	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “anoint your head with oil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	9	9	ack2	figs-explicit		0	Live happily with the wife whom you love	One should love the wife he has. Alternate translation: “Since you have a wife whom you love, live happily with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	9	9	i7lk	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	9	9	b2jb			0	your days	“your lifetime”
ECC	9	9	vd3d			0	That is your reward	The word “that” refers to living happily with his wife.
ECC	9	10	dt8t	figs-synecdoche		0	Whatever your hand finds to do	Here a person is represented by his “hand” since a person often uses his hands to work. Alternate translation: “Whatever you are able to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	9	10	nrd5	figs-abstractnouns		0	there is no work or explanation or knowledge or wisdom	The nouns “work, “explanation,” and “knowledge” can be expressed as verbs. Alternate translation: “the dead do not work or explain or know or have wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	9	11	xi11	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	9	11	k49c			0	The race does not belong to…The battle does not belong to	“The race is not always won by…The battle is not always won by”
ECC	9	11	u2xl	figs-metonymy		0	Bread	Here “Bread” refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “Food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	9	11	l8sx	figs-idiom		0	time and chance affect them all	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “what happens and when it happens affect them all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	9	11	dqc6			0	affect them all	“affects all these things.” Here the words “them all” refer to race, battle, bread, riches, and favor.
ECC	9	12	ku8a	figs-euphemism		0	when his time will come	This refers to when a person dies. Alternate translation: “when he will die” or “when the time of his death will come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
ECC	9	12	u9td	figs-simile		0	fish are caught…birds are caught…the children of human beings are ensnared	This speaks of people dying when they do not expect it, in the same way that people catch animals and kill them when they do not expect it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	9	12	u32n	figs-activepassive		0	the children of human beings are ensnared by evil times	This can be stated in active form. Also, this speaks of people experiencing disaster and unfortunate times as if they were being imprisoned or trapped. Alternate translation: “evil times are coming upon the children of human beings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	9	12	k3ka	figs-idiom		0	that suddenly fall upon them	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “at times when they do not expect them to happen” or “that suddenly happen to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	9	13	us6g	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	9	14	m1e3	figs-synecdoche		0	a great king came against it	Here the “king” represents himself and his whole army. Alternate translation: “a great king and his army” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	9	14	ax6u			0	great siege ramps	This refers to dirt ramps the army built up against the city walk so that they could climb up and attack the city.
ECC	9	15	bx8x	figs-activepassive		0	in the city was found a poor, wise man	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “in the city, people found a poor, wise man” or “a poor, wise man lived in the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	9	16	k3fl	figs-activepassive		0	the poor man’s wisdom is despised	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people despise the poor man’s wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	9	16	i9hl	figs-activepassive		0	his words are not heard	this can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they do not listen to what he says” or “they do not take his advice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	9	17	h8wq	figs-activepassive		0	The words of wise people spoken quietly are heard better	Here “heard” represents understanding. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “It is easier to understands the words that wise people speak quietly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	10	intro	awi8			0		# Ecclesiastes 10 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in all of chapter 10.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Advice<br>This chapter gives a series of disconnected pieces of advice. Translators should not try to smooth the transitions between these pieces of advice. The advice in these statements do not apply in every situation. Therefore, they should be seen as “good ideas.”<br>
ECC	10	1	m6u5	figs-simile		0	As dead flies…so a little folly	Just as flies can ruin perfume, so folly can ruin a person’s reputation for wisdom and honor. This speaks of how a little folly can ruin a person’s reputation in the same way that a few dead flies ruin perfume. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	10	1	u5bv	figs-personification		0	a little folly can overpower wisdom and honor	This speaks of how a person acting foolishly can ruin his reputation as if his “folly” and “wisdom and honor” were people and that his folly overpowered his wisdom and honor. Alternate translation: “committing a little folly can ruin a person’s wisdom and honor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ECC	10	2	rs5s	figs-metonymy		0	The heart of a wise person…the heart of a fool	Here the word “heart” refers to the mind or will. Alternate translation: “The way a wise person thinks…the way a fool thinks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	10	2	h1fr	figs-idiom		0	tends to the right…tends to the left	Here the words “right” and “left” refer to what is right and wrong. Alternate translation: “tends to doing what is right…tends to doing what is wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	10	3	fe16	figs-explicit		0	his thinking is deficient	This refers to the way that he acts. Alternate translation: “he is stupid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	10	4	r1x8	figs-metonymy		0	If the emotions of a ruler rise up against you	Here a ruler is represented by his “emotions” Alternate translation: “If a ruler becomes angry with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	10	4	vup7			0	Calm can quiet down great outrage	“By remaining calm you may cause an outraged person to become quiet”
ECC	10	5	ua6a	figs-idiom		0	under the sun	This refers to things that are done on earth. See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](../01/03.md). Alternate translation: “on the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	10	6	tiw2	figs-activepassive		0	Fools are given leadership positions	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Rulers give positions of leadership to fools” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	10	6	jq78	figs-activepassive		0	successful men are given low positions	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they give low positions to successful men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	10	6	af2e	figs-idiom		0	low positions	This is an idiom. AT” “unimportant positions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	10	7	fkc8	figs-simile		0	successful men walking like slaves on the ground	This speaks of successful men walking like slaves walk, because slaves were usually forced to walk and were not permitted to ride. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	10	8	b8rc	figs-explicit		0	a snake can bite him	This refers to a snake that was hiding inside the wall. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	10	9	t2ui			0	cuts out stones	This refers working in a quarry and cutting larger stones.
ECC	10	9	pe5j	figs-activepassive		0	can be hurt by them	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those stones can hurt him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	10	9	up7b	figs-activepassive		0	is endangered by it	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the wood may injure him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	10	10	wjy9			0	wisdom provides an advantage for success	A wise person would have sharpened his blade and would not have had to work so hard.
ECC	10	11	mr9r	figs-activepassive		0	before it is charmed	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “before the snake charmer charms it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	10	12	f4t6	figs-metonymy		0	The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious	Here the wise man’s speech is represented by his “mouth.” Alternate translation: “The things that a wise man says are gracious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	10	12	hcw8	figs-metonymy		0	the lips of a fool consume him	Here the fool’s speech is represented by his “lips.” This speaks of the fool destroying himself by his speech as if it were eating him. Alternate translation: “The things that a foolish man says destroy him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	10	13	z31v	figs-metonymy		0	As words begin to flow from a fool’s mouth	A fool’s speech is represented by his “mouth.” Alternate translation: “As a fool begins to speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	10	13	z9w4	figs-metonymy		0	at the end his mouth flows with wicked madness	A fool’s speech is represented by his “mouth.” Alternate translation: “as he finishes talking, he speaks wicked madness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	10	14	q1x3	figs-idiom		0	multiplies words	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “keeps on talking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	10	14	m6dn			0	what is coming	“what will happen in the future”
ECC	10	14	y3nu	figs-rquestion		0	Who knows what is coming after him?	The writer asks this question to emphasize that no one knows what will happen in the future after one’s death. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one knows what is coming after him.” or “No one knows what will happen after he dies.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
ECC	10	15	r99g	figs-activepassive		0	wearies them	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Fools become weary by their toil” or “Fools feel tired by the work that they do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	10	15	d4gn			0	so that they do not even know the road to town	Possible meanings are 1) “so much that he is unable to find the road to town.” That the foolish person becomes so tired from working too hard that he is unable to find his way anywhere, or 2) “because he does not even know the way to town.” That the foolish person becomes tired from working too hard because he does not know enough to go home.
ECC	10	16	uz4d	figs-apostrophe		0	Woe to you, land	The writer is speaking to the people of the nation as if they were the land itself, and he is speaking to the land as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ECC	10	16	l356			0	if your king is a young boy	This means that the king is inexperienced or immature.
ECC	10	16	yph2	figs-explicit		0	begin feasting in the morning	This implies that the leaders are more concerned with having a good time than with leading the nation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	10	17	sy4w	figs-apostrophe		0	blessed are you, land	The writer is speaking to the people of the nation as if they were the land itself, and he is speaking to the land as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
ECC	10	17	w79h	figs-explicit		0	king is the son of nobles	This implies that the son has been trained by his elders in the customs of being a good king. Alternate translation: “king has trained by nobles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	10	17	r77c			0	for strength, and not for drunkenness	This explains why the blessed leaders eat.
ECC	10	18	hr8g	figs-explicit		0	Because of laziness the roof sinks in	A lazy person does not keep up on the regular house maintenance. Alternate translation: “Because a lazy person does not repair his house, the roof sinks in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	10	18	w4li	figs-synecdoche		0	because of idle hands	Here a person is represented by his “hands” Alternate translation: “because of an idle person” or “because the person is idle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	10	18	y794	figs-synecdoche		0	the house leaks	Here the roof is represented by the whole house. Alternate translation: “the roof leaks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	10	19	e3wh	figs-abstractnouns		0	People prepare food for laughter	The word “laughter” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “People prepare food in order to laugh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	10	19	jw2q	figs-abstractnouns		0	wine brings enjoyment to life	The word “enjoyment” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “wine helps people to enjoy life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	10	19	fsx4			0	money fills the need for everything	Possible meanings are 1) “money provides for every need” or 2) “money provides for both food and wine”
ECC	10	20	yf3x	figs-metonymy		0	not even in your mind	A person’s thoughts are represented by the person’s “mind.” Alternate translation: “not even in your thoughts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	10	20	qbv8			0	rich people in your bedroom	“rich people when you are in your bedroom.” This means that you should not curse rich people even when you are in a private place where no one else will hear.
ECC	10	20	ba7r	figs-parallelism		0	For a bird of the sky…can spread the matter	These two lines mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. This speaks of people finding out what you have said as if a small bird would hear what you say and tell other people. Alternate translation: “For a bird may hear what you say and tell the matter to other people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	11	intro	byx8			0		# Ecclesiastes 11 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in all of chapter 11.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Advice<br>This chapter gives a series of disconnected pieces of advice. Translators should not try to smooth the transitions between these pieces of advice. The advice in these statements do not apply in every situation. Therefore, they should be seen as “good ideas.”<br>
ECC	11	1	iuj7	figs-metaphor		0	Send out your bread on the waters, for you will find it again after many days	Possible meanings are 1) this is a metaphor that means a person should be generous with his possessions and will then receive generously from others , or 2) that a person should invest his resources overseas and will make a profit from it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	11	2	gt4a			0	Share it with seven, even eight people	Possible meanings are 1) to share your possessions with many people, or 2) to invest your resources in multiple places.
ECC	11	2	qri5	translate-numbers		0	seven, even eight people	“7, even 8 people.” This is an idiom that means “numerous” people. Alternate translation: “numerous people” or “multiple people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	11	2	v5ph	figs-metaphor		0	what disasters are coming on the earth	Disasters happening is spoken of as if disasters were something that come to a place. Here “on the earth” may imply that these disasters happen to the person who is commanded to share. Alternate translation: “what disasters may happen in the world” or “what bad things may happen to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
ECC	11	3	k3vi			0	the clouds are full of rain	“the clouds are dark with rain”
ECC	11	3	jz5x			0	empty themselves on the earth	“empty themselves on the ground”
ECC	11	3	g5bd	figs-merism		0	toward the south or toward the north	Here “south” and “north” represent any direction. Alternate translation: “in any direction” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
ECC	11	4	g5q9			0	Anyone who watches the wind might not plant	Possible meanings are 1) “Any farmer who pays attention to the wind will not plant when the wind is blowing in the wrong direction” or 2) “Any farmer who pays too much attention to the wind will never plant”
ECC	11	4	mym3			0	anyone who watches the clouds might not harvest	Possible meanings are 1) “Any farmer who pays attention to the clouds will not harvest when it is about to rain” or 2) “Any farmer who pays too much attention to the clouds will never harvest”
ECC	11	5	xta9	figs-metaphor		0	As you do not know the path of the wind	This speaks of wind blowing as if wind traveled on a path. Alternate translation: “As you do not know where the wind comes from or where it goes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	11	5	gd8z	figs-synecdoche		0	how a baby’s bones grow	Possible meanings are 1) Here “bones” is a synecdoche representing the baby as a whole. Alternate translation: “how a baby grows” or 2) literally, “how the bones of a baby grow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	11	6	ncp6	figs-synecdoche		0	work with your hands	Here “hands” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “keep on working” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	11	6	xq2h	figs-doublet		0	whether morning or evening, or this or that	These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize that the person’s work may prosper, no matter what time he has done it. Alternate translation: “whether the seed that you planted in the morning or the seed that you planted in the evening” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
ECC	11	7	n46l	figs-metonymy		0	light is sweet	Here the word “light” refers to being able to see the sun and therefore being alive. And, this speaks of the joy of being alive as if the light had a sweet taste. Alternate translation: “it is a joy to be able to see the sun” or “being alive is delightful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	11	7	lv5e	figs-synecdoche		0	for the eyes to see the sun	The “eyes” represent the whole person. This phrase means basically the same thing as the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “for a person to see the sun” or “to be alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	11	8	eh9q			0	happy in all of them	Here the word “them” refers to the years that a person is alive.
ECC	11	8	w1un	figs-metaphor		0	the coming days of darkness	Future time is spoken of as if the “days are coming” And, here the word “darkness” refers to death. Alternate translation: “how many days that he will be dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
ECC	11	8	y8hl			0	for they will be many	Here the word “they” refers to the “days of darkness” Alternate translation: “for he will be dead for many more days than he is alive” or “for he will be dead forever”
ECC	11	8	yk5j	figs-metaphor		0	Everything to come is vanishing vapor	Here “vanishing vapor” is a metaphor. Possible meanings are 1) Alternate translation: “No one knows what will happen after he dies” or 2) Alternate translation: “Everything to come is meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	11	8	fi8k			0	Everything to come	Possible meanings are 1) “Everything that happens after death” or 2) “Everything that happens in the future”
ECC	11	9	kq46	figs-parallelism		0	Take joy, young man, in your youth, and let your heart be joyful in the days of your youth	These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined to emphasize that the man should be happy while he is young. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
ECC	11	9	h2ec	figs-metonymy		0	let your heart be joyful	Here the word “heart” represents the emotions. Alternate translation: “be joyful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	11	9	vv5u	figs-metonymy		0	Pursue the good desires of your heart	Here the word “heart” may represent the mind or emotions. Alternate translation: “Pursue the good things that you desire” or “Pursue the good things that you have determined to pursue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	11	9	si2a	figs-synecdoche		0	whatever is within the sight of your eyes	Here “eyes” represent the whole person. Alternate translation: “whatever you see that you desire” or “whatever you see to be best” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	11	9	u7ek	figs-abstractnouns		0	God will bring you into judgment for all these things	The abstract noun “judgment” can be stated as “judge” or “make you account” Alternate translation: “God will judge you for all these things” or “God will make you account for all of your actions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	11	10	tu41	figs-metaphor		0	Drive anger away from your heart	Refusing to be angry is spoken of as if anger were something that can be forced away. Also, “heart” represents a person’s emotions. Alternate translation: “Refuse to be angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	11	10	y37w	figs-metaphor		0	because youth and its strength are vapor	The authors speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were “vapor” Just as vapor disappears and does not last, the author speaks of things having no lasting value. See how you translated “vapor” in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “because youth and its strength will not last forever” or “because you will not be young and strong forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	intro	qx5w			0		# Ecclesiastes 12 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 12:1-7 and 12:13-14.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Advice<br>This chapter gives a series of disconnected pieces of advice. Translators should not try to smooth the transitions between these pieces of advice. The advice in these statements do not apply in every situation. Therefore, they should be seen as “good ideas.”<br><br>### Yahweh<br>At the end of a very impressive life, Solomon looks back and sees that the only real lasting thing in this world is Yahweh. The purpose of his life was to honor Yahweh, something he should have done far more throughout his life. Therefore, he felt that his life was wasted. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
ECC	12	1	jq6t	figs-idiom		0	call to mind	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “remember” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	12	1	r69h	figs-metaphor		0	before the days of difficulty come	Future time is spoken of as if the “days are coming” Alternate translation: “before you experience difficult times” or “before bad things happen to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	1	f747	figs-metaphor		0	before the years arrive when you say, “I have no pleasure in them,”	Future time is spoken of as if “years arrive” Alternate translation: “before you become old when you say, ‘I no longer enjoy being alive,’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	2	n1tx	figs-metaphor		0	do this before the light of the sun…after the rain	Growing old and dying is spoken of as if the sun and moon go dark and dark clouds return. Alternate translation: “do this before it seems to you that the light of the sun…after the rain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	3	ric4	figs-metaphor		0	General Information:	The writer describes a house in which various activities stop. This appears to be a metaphor for the human body as it becomes old. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	3	kzg1			0	strong men are bent over	“strong men become weak”
ECC	12	3	qs1x			0	the women who grind cease because they are few	“the women who grind grain stop grinding grain because there are few of them”
ECC	12	4	p13x	figs-metaphor		0	General Information:	The writer continues his metaphor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	4	e4kd	figs-activepassive		0	the doors are shut in the street	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people shut the doors that lead to the street” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	12	4	egr6	figs-explicit		0	when men are startled at the voice of a bird	It is implied that the voice of the birds startle the men awake. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “when the voice of a bird startles men awake” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	12	4	hg6p	figs-metaphor		0	the singing of girls’ voices fades away	Here “girls” may be a metaphor for the birds. Alternate translation: “the songs of the birds fade away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	5	q9vk	figs-metaphor		0	General Information:	The writer continues his metaphor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	5	jib4	translate-unknown		0	when the almond tree blossoms	The “almond tree” is a tree that blossoms in the winter with white flowers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
ECC	12	5	p5ym	translate-unknown		0	when grasshoppers drag themselves along	A grasshopper is a large, straight-winged insect with long, jointed back legs that give it the ability to jump a long way. Here it can only drag itself because it has gotten old and weak. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
ECC	12	5	zjw9	figs-abstractnouns		0	when natural desires fail	The abstract noun “desires” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “when people no longer desire what they once did naturally” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
ECC	12	5	tea9	figs-euphemism		0	Then man goes to his eternal home	This refers to death. Alternate translation: “Then man goes to the place of the dead forever” or “Then a person dies and never returns to life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
ECC	12	5	m24n			0	the mourners go down the streets	Possible meanings are 1) that mourners go down the streets to attend a funeral, or 2) that mourners go down the streets to the house of the person who is about to die.
ECC	12	6	buj9	figs-idiom		0	Call to mind	This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “Remember” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
ECC	12	6	tl6u	figs-metaphor		0	before the silver cord is cut…or the water wheel is broken at the well	The writer speaks of dying as if it were one of these various broken items. Death will break the body just as suddenly as people accidentally break these items while they are using them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	6	e18g	figs-activepassive		0	the silver cord is cut	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone cuts the silver cord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	12	6	n7k8	figs-activepassive		0	the golden bowl is crushed	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone crushes the golden bowl” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	12	6	ghm8	figs-activepassive		0	the pitcher is shattered	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone shatters the pitcher” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	12	6	h9gc	figs-activepassive		0	the water wheel is broken	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone breaks the water wheel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	12	7	hd1s	figs-metonymy		0	dust returns to the earth	Here the word “dust” refers to the human body that has decomposed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
ECC	12	8	rep2	figs-metaphor		0	A mist of vapor…everything is vanishing vapor	The Teacher speaks of things as being useless and meaningless as if they were “vapor.” Just as vapor disappears and does not last, the author speaks of things having no lasting value. See how you translated “vapor” in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](../01/14.md). Alternate translation: “Temporary and useless…everything is temporary and useless” or “Meaningless…everything is meaningless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	8	tnp3			0	the Teacher	See how you translated this in [Ecclesiastes 1:1](../01/01.md).
ECC	12	9	i4bz			0	contemplated and set in order	“thought much about and arranged” or “thought much about and wrote down”
ECC	12	10	a9qt			0	using vivid…words	The Teacher wanted the words to be pleasurable to the listener. They bring pleasure because they are well written, not because they are comforting.
ECC	12	11	k55m	figs-metaphor		0	The words of wise people…taught by one shepherd	The writer speaks of the teacher who uses his words to instruct people as if the teacher were a shepherd who uses his tools to lead his flock. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
ECC	12	11	klc6	figs-simile		0	The words of wise people are like goads	This is a simile. Alternate translation: “Wise people encourage people to act, like a sharp stick encourages an animal to move” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	12	11	f4e5	figs-simile		0	Like nails driven deeply are the words of the masters in collections of their proverbs	This is a simile. Alternate translation: “Like you can depend on a nail that a person drives firmly into a piece of wood, so you can depend on the words of the masters in collections of their proverbs” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
ECC	12	11	l699			0	the words of the masters in collections of their proverbs	“the wise words collected in their proverbs” or “the sayings of the wise”
ECC	12	11	as9u	figs-activepassive		0	which are taught by one shepherd	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which one shepherd teaches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	12	12	r12d			0	the making of many books, which has no end	The noun phrase “the making” can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “people will never stop making many books”
ECC	12	12	w94l	figs-synecdoche		0	brings weariness to the body	Here “body” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “makes the person tired” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
ECC	12	13	xk42			0	The end of the matter	“The final conclusion on the matter”
ECC	12	13	nr9n	figs-activepassive		0	after everything has been heard	This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “after you have heard everything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
ECC	12	14	ele3	figs-metaphor		0	along with every hidden thing	Things done in secret is spoken of as if they were an object that was hidden. Alternate translation: “along with everything that people do in secret” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])