Ecclesiastes 1:7

All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea [is] not full; unto the place from whence the rivers come, thither they return again.

All the rivers {H5158} run {H1980} into the sea {H3220}; yet the sea {H3220} is not full {H4392}; unto the place {H4725} from whence the rivers {H5158} come {H1980}, thither they return {H7725} again {H3212}.

All the rivers flow to the sea, yet the sea is not full; to the place where the rivers flow, there they keep on flowing.

All the rivers flow into the sea, yet the sea is never full; to the place from which the streams come, there again they flow.

All the rivers run into the sea, yet the sea is not full; unto the place whither the rivers go, thither they go again.

Context of Ecclesiastes 1:7

Ecclesiastes 1:7 is part of the opening discourse of the Preacher, or Koheleth (traditionally identified with King Solomon), who explores the theme of "vanity" or "meaninglessness" (Hebrew: hebel) in all human endeavors "under the sun." The book begins with observations of natural cycles to illustrate that despite constant activity and motion, there appears to be no lasting progress or ultimate fulfillment from a purely earthly perspective. This verse, alongside observations about the sun and wind, sets a contemplative, almost melancholic tone for the inquiry into life's purpose.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Ceaseless Cycles of Nature: The verse vividly describes the hydrological cycle: rivers flow into the sea, the sea does not overflow, and the water eventually returns to its source (through evaporation, cloud formation, and rain). This illustrates the continuous, unending processes of the natural world.
  • Lack of Ultimate Satisfaction or Accumulation: The phrase "yet the sea is not full" is central. Despite the immense volume of water constantly pouring into it, the sea never reaches a point of being 'full' or overflowing. This serves as a powerful metaphor for human efforts and pursuits—constant activity, yet no lasting gain or ultimate satisfaction from a worldly viewpoint. There is no ultimate accumulation or completion.
  • Repetition and Apparent Futility: The constant "return again" emphasizes the repetitive nature of these cycles. From the Preacher's perspective, this repetition, without apparent ultimate purpose or progress, contributes to the sense of vanity. It parallels the idea that there is "no new thing under the sun", a concept further explored in Ecclesiastes.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "return again" is shuv (שׁוּב), which powerfully conveys the idea of turning back, repeating, or restoring. This word choice reinforces the cyclical pattern observed by the Preacher, emphasizing that processes are not linear towards a specific, fulfilling end, but rather endlessly repetitive. The phrase "not full" (לֹא יִמָּלֵא - lo yimmalē') highlights the absence of completion, satiety, or lasting contentment in these endless cycles, a profound observation on the human condition apart from God.

Practical Application and Reflection

Ecclesiastes 1:7 invites us to ponder the nature of our own lives and pursuits. Do we often feel caught in endless cycles of activity, striving, and consumption, yet never truly feeling 'full' or satisfied? This verse challenges the notion that mere activity or accumulation of earthly things brings lasting meaning. While it presents a somewhat pessimistic view initially, the book of Ecclesiastes ultimately points towards finding true wisdom and meaning in fearing God and keeping His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13). It encourages us to look beyond the transient cycles of this world for eternal purpose and fulfillment.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Job 38:10

    And brake up for it my decreed [place], and set bars and doors,

  • Job 38:11

    And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be stayed?

  • Psalms 104:6

    Thou coveredst it with the deep as [with] a garment: the waters stood above the mountains.

  • Psalms 104:9

    Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth.

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