What is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 11:6?

Sow your seed in the morning

• The picture is a farmer rising early, scattering seed before the sun is high. Scripture takes that image literally—physical labor done promptly—yet also urges spiritual sowing: good works, prayer, gospel witness.

• God commends early diligence (Proverbs 6:6-8; 20:4), and Jesus Himself worked “while it is day” (John 9:4).

• Start each endeavor—career, ministry, family responsibilities—without delay, trusting the Lord of the harvest (Psalm 90:17).

---

and do not rest your hands in the evening

• The verse moves from dawn to dusk, calling for perseverance well beyond the first burst of energy.

• Hands that keep moving reflect the virtuous worker of Proverbs 31:17-18 and obey Paul’s charge, “Let us not grow weary in well-doing” (Galatians 6:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:10-13).

• Literal farmers know the day is short; believers likewise press on until Christ returns (1 Corinthians 15:58).

---

for you do not know which will succeed

• The limitation of human knowledge is stark. We cannot foresee which effort, conversation, or act of kindness God will use.

• James 4:13-15 warns against presuming on outcomes; only the Lord determines success (Proverbs 16:9).

• Our task is faithfulness; results belong to Him (Isaiah 55:8-9).

---

whether this or that

• The wording assumes multiple ventures—diversification echoed earlier: “Give a portion to seven, yes to eight” (Ecclesiastes 11:2).

• Jesus’ parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) shows servants investing varied amounts yet each accountable.

• Plant in more than one field: serve at home and church, labor at work and mission, entrust every sphere to God (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).

---

or if both will equally prosper

• God may bless every seed cast, multiplying beyond expectation (2 Corinthians 9:6-8).

• Malachi 3:10 promises overflowing barns when He chooses; Psalm 126:5-6 pictures sheaves carried home with joy.

• The possibility of double harvest motivates continued labor and fuels hope.

---

summary

Ecclesiastes 11:6 calls for steady, dawn-to-dusk industry in both physical and spiritual arenas. Work early, persevere late, diversify efforts, and leave the results to God, who alone knows—and often multiplies—the harvest.