Ecc 11:2, 8 | JFB | STEP | 2. portion —of thy bread. seven —the perfect number. eight —even to more than seven; that is, "to many" (so "waters," ), nay, even to very many in need ( ). evil —The day may be near, when you will need the help of those whom you have bound to you by kindnesses ( ). The very argument which covetous men use against liberality (namely, that bad times may come), the wise man uses for it.

Ecclesiastes 11:2

2. portion—of thy bread.

seven—the perfect number.

eight—even to more than seven; that is, "to many" (so "waters," Ec 11:1), nay, even to very many in need (Job 5:19; Mic 5:5).

evil—The day may be near, when you will need the help of those whom you have bound to you by kindnesses (Lu 16:9). The very argument which covetous men use against liberality (namely, that bad times may come), the wise man uses for it.

Ecclesiastes 11:8

8. But while man thankfully enjoys life, "let him remember" it will not last for ever. The "many days of darkness," that is, the unseen world (Job 10:21, 22; Ps 88:12), also days of "evil" in this world (Ec 11:2), are coming; therefore sow the good seed while life and good days last, which are not too long for accomplishing life's duties.

All that cometh—that is, All that followeth in the evil and dark days is vain, as far as work for God is concerned (Ec 9:10).