Ecclesiastes 8:13

Arabic Bible ERV 2009

أمّا الأشْرارُ فَلَنْ يَرَوْا خَيراً. وَلَنْ يَطُولَ العُمْرُ بِهِمْ. لَنْ تَكُونَ حَياتُهُمْ كَالظِّلالِ الَّتِي تَطُولُ مَعَ غُرُوبِ الشَّمْسِ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Ecclesiastes says that the wicked will not have a good life and their days will be short like a shadow. The speaker is warning that those who do not fear God will suffer.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a shadow that moves very quickly and doesn't last long. This verse says that bad people are like that shadow, and they won't have a long or good life because they don't respect God.

Historical Background

Ecclesiastes was written by King Solomon, one of the wisest kings of Israel, around 950 BC. It was written to help the people of Israel understand the meaning and purpose of life, especially in relation to God.

Living It Out Today

In today's world, we can apply this verse to someone who is successful but does not follow ethical or moral principles. Such a person may face sudden downfall or misfortune.

Topics

• wisdom
• judgment
• ethics
• shadow
• fear of God

Related Verses

• Psalm 37:35-36
• Proverbs 10:27
• 1 Peter 4:18
• Romans 1:18
• Isaiah 57:11

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to fear God?

Fearing God in this context means respecting and honoring God's authority, recognizing His power and justice, and living according to His commandments.

How can we apply the concept of 'shadow days' to our lives?

We can reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of making the most of our days, especially in ways that align with God's will and wisdom.

What are the consequences of not fearing God?

According to the verse, those who do not fear God will have a short and unfulfilled life, indicating a lack of true happiness and fulfillment.

How does this verse relate to modern-day ethics?

This verse emphasizes the importance of ethical living and the long-term consequences of unethical behavior, aligning with the idea that moral integrity is essential for a good life.