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For in much wisdom is much grief; and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.
Verse Takeaways
1
The Paradox of Knowledge
Commentators agree that increasing worldly knowledge, contrary to our expectations, leads to more sorrow, not less. The more one understands about the world, the more one sees its brokenness, our own ignorance, and our powerlessness to fix things. Scholars note the Hebrew word for 'grief' can also mean 'irritation' or 'indignation,' highlighting the deep frustration that comes with this realization.
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Book Overview
Ecclesiastes
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4
18th Century
Presbyterian
We become more aware of our ignorance and powerlessness, and therefore sorrowful, as we discover more of the order of nature and the plan of Provid…
19th Century
Anglican
Grief— Irritation.
17th Century
Reformed Baptist
For in much wisdom [is] much grief In getting it, and losing it when it is gotten: or "indignation" F20 ,…
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Solomon tried all things and found them vanity. He found his searches for knowledge weariness, not only to the flesh, but to the mind. The more he …