Ecclesiastes 5:3

As a dream comes through many cares, so the speech of a fool comes with many words.

Study Bible

As a dream
The Hebrew word for "dream" is "ḥălôm," which often signifies not just the dreams experienced during sleep but also aspirations or visions. In the context of Ecclesiastes, dreams can symbolize the fleeting and often illusory nature of human ambitions. Historically, dreams were considered significant in the ancient Near East, often seen as messages from the divine. Here, the Preacher uses "dream" to illustrate the ephemeral and sometimes deceptive nature of human thoughts and plans.

comes through many cares
The phrase "many cares" translates from the Hebrew "rōḇ ‘inyān," which can mean a multitude of tasks or concerns. This suggests that dreams, or the aspirations and anxieties of life, are born out of the multitude of human preoccupations. In a historical context, this reflects the burdens of daily life in ancient times, where survival and prosperity required constant labor and attention. Theologically, it underscores the idea that human efforts, when not aligned with divine wisdom, can lead to vanity and vexation.

so the speech of a fool
The term "fool" in Hebrew is "kesîl," which refers to someone who is morally and spiritually deficient, not merely lacking in intelligence. In the wisdom literature of the Bible, a fool is often characterized by a lack of discernment and an inability to recognize or follow God's ways. The "speech of a fool" implies words that are empty, lacking in substance and wisdom, and often leading to misunderstanding or harm.

comes with many words
The phrase "many words" is translated from "rōḇ deḇārîm," indicating an abundance of speech. In the biblical context, excessive talking is often associated with folly and sin. Proverbs 10:19 (BSB) states, "When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise." This reflects a cultural and scriptural understanding that wisdom is often found in silence and thoughtful speech. Theologically, it serves as a caution against the pride and self-reliance that can accompany verbose speech, urging believers to seek divine wisdom and understanding.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
- Traditionally considered the author of Ecclesiastes, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom, wealth, and writings. Ecclesiastes is part of the wisdom literature attributed to him.

2. Israel
- The nation to which Solomon belonged and over which he reigned. The cultural and religious context of Israel during Solomon's time influences the themes of Ecclesiastes.

3. The Fool
- A recurring character in wisdom literature, representing someone who lacks wisdom and understanding, often characterized by excessive talking and lack of discernment.

Teaching Points

The Burden of Many Cares
Dreams often arise from the multitude of our concerns and anxieties. This suggests that our preoccupations can manifest in our subconscious, indicating the need to manage our worries through prayer and trust in God.

The Folly of Excessive Words
Just as dreams can be a product of many cares, a fool's voice is characterized by an abundance of words. This teaches the importance of thoughtful speech and the wisdom of listening more than speaking.

Wisdom in Silence
The verse encourages believers to practice restraint in speech, valuing silence and contemplation over the noise of many words. This aligns with the biblical principle of being slow to speak.

Discernment in Communication
Believers are called to discernment in their communication, ensuring that their words are edifying and purposeful, rather than empty and excessive.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the "many cares" in your life influence your thoughts and dreams, and how can you bring these concerns before God in prayer?

2. In what ways can you practice being "slow to speak" in your daily interactions, and how does this align with the wisdom found in Ecclesiastes 5:3?

3. Reflect on a time when excessive talking led to misunderstanding or conflict. How might applying the principle of thoughtful speech have changed the outcome?

4. How does the concept of a "fool's voice through many words" challenge you in your personal communication, and what steps can you take to cultivate wisdom in your speech?

5. Consider the connection between Ecclesiastes 5:3 and James 1:19. How can you apply these teachings to improve your relationships with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 10:19
- This verse warns that when words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. It connects to Ecclesiastes 5:3 by emphasizing the folly of excessive speech.

James 1:19
- Advises believers to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. This New Testament teaching aligns with the caution against many words found in Ecclesiastes 5:3.

Matthew 6:7
- Jesus warns against babbling like pagans who think they will be heard because of their many words. This teaching reflects the idea that excessive words can be foolish.