Ecc 2:26 | JFB | STEP | 26. True, literally, in the Jewish theocracy; and in some measure in all ages ( ). Though the retribution be not so visible and immediate now as then, it is no less real. Happiness even here is more truly the portion of the godly ( ). that he —the sinner may give —that is, unconsciously and in spite of himself. The godly Solomon had satisfaction in his riches and wisdom, when God gave them ( ). The backsliding Solomon had no happiness when he sought it in them apart from God; and the riches which he heaped up became the prey of Shishak ( ).

Ecclesiastes 2:26

26. True, literally, in the Jewish theocracy; and in some measure in all ages (Job 27:16, 17; Pr 13:22; 28:8). Though the retribution be not so visible and immediate now as then, it is no less real. Happiness even here is more truly the portion of the godly (Ps 84:11; Mt 5:5; Mr 10:29, 30; Ro 8:28; 1Ti 4:8).

that he—the sinner

may give—that is, unconsciously and in spite of himself. The godly Solomon had satisfaction in his riches and wisdom, when God gave them (2Ch 1:11, 12). The backsliding Solomon had no happiness when he sought it in them apart from God; and the riches which he heaped up became the prey of Shishak (2Ch 12:9).