What is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 10:3?

Even as the fool walks along the road

The Teacher paints an everyday scene—a traveler on a public road—so that we see folly in ordinary life.

• The “road” pictures one’s life-course; every step counts (Proverbs 4:18-19; Deuteronomy 5:33).

• Nothing about the setting hides the fool; daylight exposes character (John 3:20-21).

• Wisdom is likewise lived out in public (Matthew 5:16), so the contrast between wise and foolish becomes plain.

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his sense is lacking

The problem is not circumstance but inner emptiness.

• “Lacking sense” echoes Solomon’s frequent warning that folly starts in the heart (Proverbs 15:21; 24:30).

• Without sound judgment, the fool misreads danger and opportunity alike (Ecclesiastes 2:14).

• God offers the remedy—“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5).

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and he shows everyone that he is a fool

Foolishness cannot stay hidden; actions advertise it.

• “Every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool displays his folly” (Proverbs 13:16).

• Jesus said, “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:16).

• The public nature of folly invites mercy toward the fool and caution for the observer (Galatians 6:1).

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summary

Ecclesiastes 10:3 reminds us that folly is visible, rooted in an empty heart, and broadcast through daily choices. Staying on the road of wisdom requires a heart filled with God’s truth, continual dependence on His guidance, and a readiness to let our walk, not just our words, reveal His wisdom to a watching world.