Who is like the wise man?
This rhetorical question emphasizes the rarity and value of true wisdom. In the biblical context, wisdom is often associated with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). The wise man is not just knowledgeable but possesses discernment and understanding that align with God's will. This echoes Solomon's own request for wisdom from God (1 Kings 3:9-12), highlighting that true wisdom is a divine gift rather than mere human achievement.

Who knows the interpretation of a matter?
This phrase suggests the ability to discern and understand complex issues, a skill attributed to those with divine insight. In the Old Testament, figures like Joseph (Genesis 41:15-16) and Daniel (Daniel 2:27-28) were known for their God-given ability to interpret dreams and mysteries. This ability to interpret is not just intellectual but spiritual, requiring reliance on God for understanding beyond human capability.

A man’s wisdom brightens his face,
Wisdom is portrayed as having a transformative effect, bringing joy and clarity. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a bright face was a sign of favor and blessing (Numbers 6:24-26). This transformation can be seen as a reflection of inner peace and confidence that comes from living in accordance with divine wisdom. The brightening of the face symbolizes the positive impact of wisdom on one's demeanor and relationships.

and the sternness of his face is changed.
The change from sternness to brightness indicates a shift from anxiety or harshness to peace and gentleness. This transformation can be linked to the peace that surpasses understanding, as mentioned in Philippians 4:7. The wise person, through understanding and trust in God, experiences a change in countenance that reflects inner tranquility and assurance. This change is also a testament to the power of wisdom to alter one's outlook and interactions with others.

Keep the king’s command
This phrase emphasizes the importance of obedience to authority, a theme consistent throughout Scripture. In the context of ancient Israel, the king was seen as God's appointed ruler, and his commands were to be respected as part of maintaining order and justice. This aligns with Romans 13:1-2, where Paul instructs believers to submit to governing authorities, as they are established by God. The king's command represents civil authority, and obedience to it is seen as part of one's duty to God.

I say
The use of "I say" indicates the personal emphasis of the Teacher, traditionally understood to be Solomon, who is sharing wisdom from his own experience and understanding. This personal touch adds weight to the instruction, suggesting that it is not merely a general principle but a deeply considered truth. Solomon, known for his wisdom, is providing guidance that reflects his understanding of the divine order and human responsibility.

because of your oath before God
This phrase highlights the seriousness of vows made before God, which were binding and sacred in ancient Israelite culture. An oath before God was a solemn promise, often made in the context of loyalty to the king or covenantal agreements. This reflects the broader biblical theme of faithfulness and integrity in one's commitments, as seen in passages like Numbers 30:2 and Matthew 5:33-37. The reference to an oath underscores the spiritual dimension of obedience, suggesting that it is not merely a civic duty but a religious obligation.

Do not hasten to leave his presence
This phrase advises patience and respect in the presence of authority, likely referring to a king or ruler. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, leaving a king's presence abruptly could be seen as disrespectful or rebellious. The biblical context emphasizes the importance of wisdom and discernment when dealing with those in power. Proverbs 25:6-7 similarly advises humility before rulers. This can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate King, and believers are encouraged to remain in His presence through prayer and obedience.

and do not persist in a bad cause
This warns against stubbornly supporting or engaging in actions that are unjust or unwise. Historically, aligning with a bad cause could lead to severe consequences, especially under a monarch's rule. The Bible frequently warns against evil associations and actions, as seen in Proverbs 4:14-15. This phrase underscores the importance of aligning oneself with righteousness and truth, reflecting the biblical call to pursue justice and avoid sin.

for he will do whatever he pleases
This highlights the sovereign power of a king, who has the authority to act according to his will. In the historical context of monarchies, a king's decisions were often final and unquestionable. This can be connected to the sovereignty of God, as seen in Daniel 4:35, where God's will is supreme over all creation. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate authority of God, who, unlike earthly kings, is perfectly just and righteous in all His ways.

For the king’s word is supreme
In ancient Israel, the king held a position of ultimate authority, reflecting the theocratic nature of the society where the king was seen as God's appointed ruler. This phrase underscores the absolute power and authority of a monarch, which was common in the ancient Near East. The king's word was law, and his decrees were binding. This reflects the broader biblical theme of authority and submission, as seen in Romans 13:1-2, where believers are instructed to submit to governing authorities. The king's authority can also be seen as a type of Christ, the ultimate King whose word is final and supreme (Revelation 19:16).

and who can say to him, “What are you doing?”
This rhetorical question emphasizes the futility of questioning or challenging the king's decisions. In the cultural context of the time, questioning a king could be seen as rebellion or insubordination, often leading to severe consequences. This reflects the broader biblical principle of respecting authority, as seen in Proverbs 24:21-22, which warns against rebelling against the king. The phrase also points to the sovereignty of God, as seen in Job 9:12, where Job acknowledges that no one can question God's actions. This can be seen as a reminder of the ultimate authority of God, who is the King of Kings, and whose plans and purposes are beyond human understanding (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Whoever keeps his command will come to no harm
This phrase emphasizes the importance of obedience to authority, reflecting a theme found throughout Scripture. In the context of Ecclesiastes, it likely refers to the king's command, as the book often discusses the role of rulers and governance. Biblically, obedience to authority is seen as a means of maintaining order and peace, as seen in Romans 13:1-2, which instructs believers to submit to governing authorities. The idea of coming to no harm suggests divine protection for those who follow God's ordained structures. Historically, in ancient Near Eastern cultures, loyalty to the king was crucial for personal safety and societal stability. This principle can also be seen as a type of Christ, who perfectly obeyed the Father's will and thus secured salvation for humanity.

and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure
This part of the verse highlights the value of wisdom and discernment. In the biblical context, wisdom is often associated with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10) and the ability to navigate life's complexities. The "right time and procedure" suggests an understanding of when and how to act, which is a recurring theme in wisdom literature. Ecclesiastes frequently addresses the unpredictability of life and the need for discernment (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). Culturally, the ancient world placed high value on wisdom as a means to achieve success and avoid pitfalls. This wisdom is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who is described as the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24), embodying perfect timing and action in His earthly ministry.

For there is a right time and procedure to every purpose
This phrase emphasizes the importance of timing and method in fulfilling God's purposes. The concept of a "right time" aligns with the biblical theme of divine timing, as seen in Ecclesiastes 3:1, which states there is a time for every activity under heaven. The Hebrew understanding of time often involves the idea of appointed times or seasons, suggesting that God has a sovereign plan for all events. The word "procedure" implies that not only timing but also the manner in which actions are carried out is significant. This reflects the wisdom literature's focus on living skillfully and in accordance with God's will. The idea of purpose here can be connected to Romans 8:28, where all things work together for good for those who love God, indicating that God's purposes are ultimately for the benefit of His people.

though a man’s misery weighs heavily upon him
This part of the verse acknowledges the human experience of suffering and the burden it can impose. The term "misery" can be understood as the hardships and trials that people face in life. This reflects the broader theme of Ecclesiastes, which often grapples with the apparent futility and challenges of life under the sun. The phrase "weighs heavily" suggests a significant emotional or spiritual burden, reminiscent of the struggles described in Job. Despite this, the verse implies that understanding God's timing and procedures can provide a sense of hope and direction. This aligns with the New Testament teaching in 2 Corinthians 4:17, where Paul speaks of momentary afflictions producing an eternal weight of glory, suggesting that present sufferings are temporary and purposeful within God's plan.

Since no one knows what will happen
This phrase highlights the uncertainty of the future, a theme prevalent throughout Ecclesiastes. The acknowledgment of human limitations in predicting future events is consistent with the wisdom literature of the Bible, which often contrasts human understanding with divine omniscience. In the ancient Near Eastern context, people often sought guidance from diviners or omens, but the Bible consistently teaches reliance on God rather than human foresight (Isaiah 46:9-10). This phrase underscores the futility of trying to control or predict life’s outcomes, echoing the sentiment found in James 4:13-15, where believers are reminded to submit their plans to the will of God.

who can tell him what is to come?
This rhetorical question emphasizes the inability of humans to foresee the future, reinforcing the need for trust in God’s sovereign plan. The phrase suggests that only God, who is outside of time, knows the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). In the broader biblical narrative, this points to the prophetic tradition where God reveals future events through His prophets, yet even they only know what God chooses to disclose (Amos 3:7). The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus Christ being the ultimate revelation of God’s plan for humanity (Hebrews 1:1-2). This phrase invites reflection on the nature of faith, encouraging believers to live with humility and dependence on God’s wisdom rather than their own understanding.

As no man has power over the wind to contain it
This phrase highlights the limitations of human control over natural forces. In biblical context, the wind often symbolizes the Spirit of God (John 3:8) or God's sovereign power (Psalm 135:7). The inability to control the wind serves as a metaphor for human limitations in the face of divine sovereignty. The Hebrew word for "wind" (ruach) can also mean "spirit," emphasizing the spiritual dimension of this truth. This reflects the broader biblical theme that God's ways and plans are beyond human understanding and control (Isaiah 55:8-9).

so no one has authority over his day of death
This phrase underscores the inevitability of death and the lack of human control over it. In the ancient Near Eastern context, life and death were seen as being in the hands of God alone (Deuteronomy 32:39). The Bible consistently teaches that God has appointed a time for every event under heaven, including death (Ecclesiastes 3:2). This serves as a reminder of human mortality and the need for humility before God, who alone determines the span of our lives (Job 14:5).

As no one can be discharged in wartime
This phrase draws on the imagery of military service, where soldiers are bound to their duty until the conflict ends. In ancient Israel, military service was a serious obligation, and desertion was not an option (Deuteronomy 20:5-8). This analogy illustrates the inescapable nature of certain life circumstances. Just as soldiers cannot leave their posts during battle, individuals cannot escape the consequences of their actions or the trials they face in life.

so wickedness will not release those who practice it
This phrase highlights the binding nature of sin and its consequences. In biblical teaching, sin is often depicted as a snare or trap (Proverbs 5:22), and those who engage in wickedness become enslaved by it (John 8:34). The imagery suggests that just as soldiers are bound to their duty, those who practice wickedness are bound by their own actions, unable to free themselves from the spiritual and moral consequences. This serves as a warning of the destructive power of sin and the need for repentance and redemption through Christ (Romans 6:23).

All this I have seen
The author, traditionally understood to be Solomon, reflects on his observations of life. This phrase emphasizes the experiential nature of the wisdom literature, where personal observation and reflection are key. Solomon, known for his wisdom, had the opportunity to witness the complexities of human behavior and governance firsthand. This aligns with the broader theme of Ecclesiastes, which explores the vanity and fleeting nature of worldly pursuits.

applying my mind to every deed that is done under the sun
This phrase highlights the intentional and thorough examination of human actions. "Under the sun" is a recurring phrase in Ecclesiastes, signifying life on earth from a human perspective, often with a focus on the temporal and material aspects. The phrase suggests a comprehensive study of human behavior, echoing the wisdom tradition of seeking understanding and discernment. It also reflects the biblical call to wisdom, as seen in Proverbs 4:7, where acquiring wisdom is paramount.

there is a time when one man lords it over another
This observation points to the misuse of power and authority, a common theme in biblical texts. The phrase can be connected to the warnings against oppression found in other scriptures, such as Proverbs 22:16 and Isaiah 3:12-15. It reflects the fallen nature of humanity, where power can lead to tyranny and injustice. Historically, this can be seen in the reigns of various kings in Israel and Judah, where some rulers abused their power, leading to societal decay.

to his own detriment
The misuse of power ultimately harms the oppressor, a theme consistent with biblical teachings on justice and righteousness. This phrase suggests that those who exploit others will face consequences, aligning with the principle of reaping what one sows, as seen in Galatians 6:7. It also echoes the wisdom literature's emphasis on the futility of unjust actions, as they lead to personal and spiritual ruin. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who, in contrast, used His authority for service and sacrifice, embodying the ultimate example of righteous leadership.

Then too, I saw the burial of the wicked
This phrase highlights the observation of the burial practices for the wicked. In ancient Israel, burial was a significant event, often reflecting one's status and reputation. The wicked receiving a proper burial suggests a societal failure to recognize or address their moral corruption. This can be contrasted with the fate of the righteous, who sometimes suffer unjustly (Ecclesiastes 7:15). The burial of the wicked may also imply a temporary triumph of evil, as seen in Psalm 73:3-12, where the prosperity of the wicked is lamented.

who used to go in and out of the holy place
The "holy place" likely refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central location for worship and religious activities. The wicked going in and out of the temple suggests hypocrisy and a superficial adherence to religious practices. This behavior is reminiscent of the Pharisees in the New Testament, whom Jesus criticized for their outward piety but inward corruption (Matthew 23:27-28). The presence of the wicked in the holy place underscores the tension between true worship and mere ritual.

and they were praised in the city where they had done so
The wicked being praised in the city indicates a societal blindness or complicity in their actions. This reflects a cultural context where reputation and public perception can be manipulated, often ignoring true character. The city, likely Jerusalem, serves as a microcosm of broader societal values. This situation parallels the lament in Isaiah 5:20, where good is called evil and evil good. It also foreshadows the ultimate judgment where true justice will be revealed (Revelation 20:12).

This too is futile
The declaration of futility emphasizes the theme of vanity and meaninglessness that permeates Ecclesiastes. Despite the apparent success and honor of the wicked, their end is ultimately empty and unsatisfying. This echoes the broader message of Ecclesiastes that earthly achievements and accolades are transient and cannot provide lasting fulfillment. The futility here serves as a reminder of the need for divine justice and the hope of eternal truth, as seen in the ultimate fulfillment through Jesus Christ, who embodies true wisdom and righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30).

When the sentence for a crime is not speedily executed
This phrase highlights the importance of justice being carried out promptly. In biblical times, swift justice was crucial to maintaining order within society. The Mosaic Law, as seen in Deuteronomy 19:15-21, emphasized the need for fair and timely judgment to deter wrongdoing. The delay in executing justice can lead to a breakdown in societal order, as seen in the history of Israel when judges and kings failed to uphold the law. This principle is echoed in Proverbs 20:8, where a king who sits on the throne of judgment scatters all evil with his eyes, indicating the power of immediate justice.

the hearts of men become fully set on doing evil
This part of the verse addresses the human tendency towards sin when there is a lack of immediate consequences. The heart, in biblical terms, often represents the center of human will and emotion. Jeremiah 17:9 describes the heart as deceitful and desperately wicked, suggesting that without restraint, people are inclined to pursue evil. The delay in justice can embolden individuals to continue in sin, as seen in the narrative of the Judges, where Israel repeatedly fell into idolatry and immorality when there was no strong leadership. This concept is also reflected in Romans 1:28-32, where God gives people over to a depraved mind when they persist in sin without repentance.

Although a sinner does evil a hundred times and still lives long
This phrase acknowledges the perplexing reality of the prosperity of the wicked, a theme prevalent throughout the wisdom literature, such as in Job and Psalms. The "hundred times" suggests habitual sinning, emphasizing the persistence of evil actions. The longevity of the sinner's life may seem unjust, echoing the sentiments found in Psalm 73, where the psalmist struggles with the prosperity of the wicked. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern context where long life was often seen as a sign of divine favor, creating a tension for the righteous observer.

yet I also know that it will go well with those who fear God
The phrase "I also know" indicates a confident assertion of faith despite the apparent success of the wicked. "Those who fear God" refers to individuals who live in reverence and obedience to God, a central theme in wisdom literature. This fear is not terror but a profound respect and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and justice. The assurance that "it will go well" aligns with promises found in Deuteronomy 5:29 and Proverbs 1:7, where fearing God is associated with wisdom and blessing.

who are reverent in His presence
Reverence in God's presence implies a lifestyle of worship and submission, recognizing God's holiness and authority. This phrase underscores the importance of an ongoing relationship with God, reminiscent of the covenant relationship emphasized throughout the Old Testament. The presence of God was central to Israel's identity, symbolized by the tabernacle and later the temple. This reverence is a type of Christ, who perfectly exemplified living in God's presence and taught His followers to do the same, as seen in John 15:4-5.

Yet because the wicked do not fear God
The fear of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, often associated with wisdom and righteousness (Proverbs 9:10). In the context of Ecclesiastes, the Preacher observes the futility and vanity of life under the sun, emphasizing that a lack of reverence for God leads to moral and spiritual decay. The wicked, those who live in defiance of God's commandments, are contrasted with the righteous who fear God. This phrase underscores the biblical principle that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord, a concept echoed in Job 28:28 and Psalm 111:10. The absence of this fear results in a life devoid of divine guidance and blessing.

it will not go well with them
This phrase highlights the inevitable consequences of living a life contrary to God's will. Throughout Scripture, there is a consistent message that disobedience and rebellion against God lead to negative outcomes (Deuteronomy 28:15-68). The Preacher in Ecclesiastes acknowledges the apparent prosperity of the wicked at times, but ultimately asserts that their end is not favorable. This aligns with the teachings found in Psalm 73, where the psalmist initially envies the prosperity of the wicked but later understands their ultimate downfall. The phrase serves as a reminder of the divine justice that governs the universe, even when it seems delayed.

and their days will not lengthen like a shadow
In ancient Near Eastern culture, shadows were often used as metaphors for transience and the brevity of life. The imagery of a shadow suggests something fleeting and insubstantial. The wicked, who do not fear God, will not experience the blessing of a long and prosperous life, as promised to those who honor God (Exodus 20:12). This phrase can be seen as a reflection on the temporal nature of earthly life and the ultimate judgment that awaits those who live in opposition to God's ways. The brevity of their days contrasts with the eternal life promised to the righteous, as seen in John 3:16. The shadow metaphor also points to the fleeting nature of worldly success and the enduring value of spiritual integrity.

There is a futility that is done on the earth:
The concept of futility, or vanity, is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes, reflecting the Hebrew word "hevel," which suggests a sense of meaninglessness or transience. This phrase sets the stage for the observation of life's apparent injustices. The Preacher, traditionally understood to be Solomon, speaks from a perspective of wisdom and experience, observing the world under the sun, a phrase indicating a focus on earthly life apart from divine revelation. This futility is a result of the fallen state of the world post-Genesis 3, where sin introduced disorder and frustration into creation.

There are righteous men who get what the actions of the wicked deserve:
This observation highlights the perplexing reality of moral inversion in a fallen world. The righteous, those who live according to God's commandments, sometimes suffer consequences typically associated with wickedness. This echoes the experiences of Job, who suffered despite his righteousness, and foreshadows the ultimate righteous sufferer, Jesus Christ, who bore the sins of the world despite His sinlessness. This inversion challenges the retributive justice system seen in Deuteronomy 28, where blessings and curses are tied to obedience and disobedience.

and there are wicked men who get what the actions of the righteous deserve:
Conversely, the wicked, those who live in opposition to God's laws, often prosper and enjoy the blessings that seem due to the righteous. This is a common lament in the Psalms, such as Psalm 73, where the psalmist struggles with the prosperity of the wicked. This reality underscores the tension between the present age and the eschatological hope of divine justice, where God will ultimately set things right, as seen in Revelation 21:4, where God promises to wipe away every tear and eliminate death and suffering.

I say that this too is futile:
The Preacher concludes with a reiteration of the futility of these observations, emphasizing the limitations of human understanding and the inability to find ultimate meaning in earthly experiences alone. This statement invites readers to look beyond the temporal and seek wisdom and understanding from God, who alone can provide true justice and meaning. It points to the need for faith in God's sovereign plan, as articulated in Romans 8:28, where all things work together for good for those who love God. This futility also serves as a call to trust in God's ultimate justice and the hope of redemption through Christ, who will one day restore all things.

So I commended the enjoyment of life
The author, traditionally understood to be Solomon, acknowledges the value of enjoying life. This perspective is consistent with the wisdom literature's emphasis on finding joy in the present moment. In the context of Ecclesiastes, this commendation is not hedonistic but rather a recognition of life's fleeting nature. The enjoyment of life is seen as a gift from God, aligning with the biblical theme that God desires His creation to experience joy (Psalm 16:11).

because there is nothing better for a man under the sun
The phrase "under the sun" is a recurring motif in Ecclesiastes, emphasizing the earthly, temporal perspective. It suggests a focus on the human experience apart from divine revelation. The assertion that there is "nothing better" reflects the book's exploration of life's vanities and the search for meaning. This echoes the sentiment found in Ecclesiastes 2:24, where the enjoyment of simple pleasures is deemed worthwhile amidst life's uncertainties.

than to eat and drink and be merry
Eating, drinking, and being merry are symbolic of basic human pleasures and contentment. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, communal meals were significant social and religious events, often associated with covenantal fellowship (Genesis 18:1-8). This phrase also recalls Jesus' parables, where feasting represents the joy of the Kingdom of God (Luke 14:15-24). The emphasis is on a balanced life that appreciates God's provisions.

For this joy will accompany him in his labor
The connection between joy and labor highlights the biblical principle that work is not merely toil but can be fulfilling and meaningful. This reflects the creation mandate in Genesis 2:15, where Adam is placed in the garden to work it. The idea that joy accompanies labor suggests a divine blessing on human endeavors, countering the curse of laborious toil from Genesis 3:17-19.

during the days of his life that God gives him
This phrase acknowledges God's sovereignty over human life. The recognition that life is a divine gift is a recurring theme in Scripture (James 4:13-15). It underscores the importance of gratitude and stewardship of the time allotted to each person. The temporality of life is a reminder to live purposefully and in alignment with God's will.

under the sun
Reiterating the earthly perspective, "under the sun" serves as a reminder of the limitations of human understanding. It contrasts with the eternal perspective found in other parts of Scripture, such as Colossians 3:2, which encourages believers to set their minds on things above. This phrase encapsulates the tension between the temporal and the eternal, urging readers to seek wisdom that transcends earthly existence.

When I applied my mind to know wisdom
This phrase reflects the pursuit of wisdom, a central theme in Ecclesiastes. The author, traditionally believed to be Solomon, is renowned for his wisdom (1 Kings 4:29-34). The quest for understanding is a hallmark of biblical literature, echoing Proverbs 4:7, which emphasizes the importance of acquiring wisdom. The Hebrew concept of wisdom (חָכְמָה, chokmah) involves practical living and moral insight, not just intellectual knowledge.

and to observe the task that one performs on the earth—
This part highlights the Preacher's examination of human labor and endeavors. Ecclesiastes frequently addresses the futility and transient nature of earthly tasks (Ecclesiastes 1:3, 2:11). The phrase suggests a comprehensive observation of human activity, reflecting the Preacher's attempt to discern meaning in life's work. This aligns with the Genesis mandate for humanity to work and steward the earth (Genesis 2:15), yet Ecclesiastes questions the ultimate value of such toil.

though his eyes do not see sleep in the day or even in the night—
This phrase indicates the relentless pursuit of understanding and the exhaustive nature of human labor. The lack of sleep symbolizes the ceaseless quest for meaning and the burdens of life (Psalm 127:2). It also reflects the Preacher's personal experience of sleeplessness due to the weight of existential questions. This imagery connects to the broader biblical theme of rest, as seen in God's provision of Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11), contrasting human restlessness with divine peace.

I saw every work of God
This phrase reflects the author's observation of the vast and intricate works of God in the world. It echoes the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and the complexity of His creation, as seen in passages like Job 38-41, where God challenges Job's understanding of the universe. The phrase suggests a comprehensive view, acknowledging that all events and actions are ultimately under God's control.

and that a man is unable to comprehend the work that is done under the sun.
This highlights human limitations in understanding divine purposes and the full scope of God's actions. The phrase "under the sun" is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes, referring to the earthly, temporal realm. It underscores the idea that human wisdom is finite, as also expressed in Isaiah 55:8-9, where God's thoughts and ways are higher than human understanding.

Despite his efforts to search it out, he cannot find its meaning;
This reflects the futility of human endeavors to fully grasp God's plans through mere intellectual pursuit. It aligns with the biblical teaching that true wisdom and understanding come from God (Proverbs 2:6). The phrase suggests that human efforts, no matter how diligent, are insufficient to uncover the divine mysteries.

even if the wise man claims to know,
This phrase addresses the presumption of human wisdom. It serves as a caution against pride and self-reliance, reminiscent of the warnings in Proverbs 3:7, "Do not be wise in your own eyes." It implies that even those considered wise by worldly standards are limited in their understanding of God's ways.

he is unable to comprehend.
The conclusion reinforces the theme of human limitation in the face of divine mystery. It echoes the sentiment found in Romans 11:33, where Paul marvels at the depth of God's wisdom and knowledge, acknowledging that His judgments and ways are beyond human comprehension. This phrase serves as a reminder of the need for humility and faith in God's greater plan.