Ecclesiastes 8:16-17
Summary for Eccl 8:16-9:12: 8:16–9:12 a Another generalization from lifelong observation is that death appears to be meaningless. Why do some die and others live longer? God’s sovereign decision in this matter is unpredictable (7:13-14 b).Summary for Eccl 8:16-17: 8:16-17 c A person could spend night and day looking for the answers to every question, but the reasons for everything will not be apparent. God’s justice, for example, is sometimes mysterious.
Ecclesiastes 9:1-12
9:1 d No one knows whether God will show them favor: There is no guarantee that righteousness will be rewarded in this life (cp. 3:17-22 e; 8:10-15 f; 12:14 g).9:2 h The destiny all people share is death.
9:3 i When punishments, including death, are delayed, people continue their own mad course, perhaps intensifying their sin and foolishness.
Summary for Eccl 9:4-6: 9:4-6 j The hope for enjoyment is only as alive as the one who is hoping. In this sense, it is better to be alive (cp. 6:3 k; 7:1 l).
Summary for Eccl 9:7-10: 9:7-10 m Though death is inevitable, enjoying life is beneficial.
9:10 n to the grave: Hebrew to Sheol. In the Old Testament, Sheol is the abode of the dead. It is not necessarily associated with punishment.
9:11 o decided by chance: We cannot control the outcome (cp. 7:13 p).
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