Ecclesiastes 5:16

And this also is a sore evil, that in all points as he came, so shall he go: and what profit hath he that hath laboured for the wind?

King James Version

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Other Translations for Ecclesiastes 5:16

BSB

This too is a grievous evil: Exactly as a man is born, so he will depart. What does he gain as he toils for the wind?

AKJV

And this also is a sore evil, that in all points as he came, so shall he go: and what profit has he that has labored for the wind?

CPDV

It is an utterly miserable infirmity that, in the same manner as he has arrived, so shall he return. How then does it benefit him, since he has labored for the wind?

ERV

And this also is a grievous evil, that in all points as he came, so shall he go: and what profit hath he that he laboureth for the wind?

NHEB

This also is a grievous evil, that in all points as he came, so shall he go. And what profit does he have who labors for the wind?

SMT

And also this an evil making sick, wholly as he came so shall he go: and what to him he shall labor for the wind?

Word Study (Strong’s) for Ecclesiastes 5:16

AndthisH2090FemininealsoisasoreH2470Verb evilH7451thatinallpointsH5980Noun FeminineashecameH935VerbsoshallhegoH3212VerbandwhatprofitH3504Noun MasculinehathhethathathlabouredH5998VerbforthewindH7307Noun Feminine

Commentary for Ecclesiastes 5:16

Please note: this is not Scripture

These study resources are provided for informational purposes only. They reflect human interpretation, are subject to human error, and should not be considered divinely inspired or authoritative.

Barnes’ Notes Classic commentary from Albert Barnes Matthew Henry Commentary Classic commentary from Matthew Henry

Overview of Ecclesiastes 5:16

Summary

Labor for wind yields no lasting gain

Event

Questioning value of endless striving

Estimated Time Period

c. 950 BC