Ecclesiastes 10:20

KJV

Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.

KJV (with Strong's)

Curse {H7043} not the king {H4428}, no not in thy thought {H4093}; and curse {H7043} not the rich {H6223} in thy bedchamber {H2315}{H4904}: for a bird {H5775} of the air {H8064} shall carry {H3212} the voice {H6963}, and that which hath {H1167} wings {H3671} shall tell {H5046} the matter {H1697}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Don't insult the king, not even in your thoughts; and don't insult the wealthy, not even in your bedroom; for a bird in the air might carry the news, a creature with wings might repeat what you said.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not curse the king even in your thoughts, or curse the rich even in your bedroom, for a bird of the air may carry your words, and a winged creature may report your speech.

American Standard Version

Revile not the king, no, not in thy thought; and revile not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the heavens shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 10:20 serves as a profound admonition against harboring or expressing contempt, even in the most private thoughts or secluded spaces, towards those in positions of authority, specifically the king and the wealthy. The verse vividly underscores the futility of attempting to conceal such sentiments, employing powerful metaphorical language to suggest that hidden words or attitudes possess an uncanny ability to be revealed, leading to unforeseen and potentially severe consequences. It functions as a timeless warning on the pervasive nature of influence and the ultimate impossibility of absolute secrecy, highlighting that inner disposition carries significant weight.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ecclesiastes 10 is largely dedicated to contrasting wisdom and folly, illustrating how foolish actions and words can disrupt societal order and lead to ruin, while wisdom promotes stability and well-being. This verse immediately precedes a discussion on the unpredictability of life and the need for diligence and prudence in all endeavors (e.g., the themes found in [Ecclesiastes 11:1-6](/ecclesiastes/11-1 "Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 - Cast Your Bread Upon the Waters")). This specific verse, therefore, fits within a broader discourse on the practical implications of wisdom in daily life, particularly concerning one's conduct and inner disposition towards those in power. It highlights the subtle ways folly can manifest, not just in overt rebellion but in hidden disdain, emphasizing that even private thoughts have public ramifications. The Teacher consistently urges a pragmatic approach to life, recognizing that even seemingly minor transgressions can have far-reaching consequences.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern societies, the king was often regarded as a divinely appointed figure, and any form of disrespect or rebellion, even in thought, was considered a grave offense akin to sedition. Such societies were often characterized by strict hierarchical structures where challenging authority could lead to severe penalties. The "rich" (Hebrew, `‘ashîyr`) likely refers to those of influence, power, or status, not merely wealth, who were integral to the social fabric and often held positions of authority or patronage. The mention of the "bedchamber" (Hebrew, `cheder`) signifies the most private, secluded space, emphasizing that the warning extends to thoughts and words uttered where one might feel most secure from detection. The pervasive nature of informers and the swiftness of news travel, even in ancient times, could also contribute to the practical wisdom of this admonition, underscoring the ever-present risk of exposure.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Ecclesiastes and broader biblical wisdom literature. Firstly, it emphasizes **Respect for Authority**, not just as outward obedience but as an internal disposition. The prohibition against "cursing" (Hebrew, `qâlal`) the king, even in thought, underscores the importance of honoring the office, even if the individual is flawed. This resonates with later biblical teachings on submitting to governing authorities, as seen in the admonitions of [Romans 13:1-7](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1-7 - Submission to Governing Authorities"). Secondly, it highlights the **Pervasive Nature of Sin and the Power of Private Thoughts**. The "bedchamber" signifies that no space is truly hidden from the consequences of one's inner disposition. This theme is echoed in Jesus' teaching that evil thoughts precede evil actions, as recorded in [Matthew 15:18-19](/matthew/15-18 "Matthew 15:18-19 - What Comes Out of the Mouth Defiles a Person"). Finally, the verse conveys the theme of **Unforeseen Consequences and Divine Oversight**. The metaphorical "bird of the air" suggests that secrets have a mysterious way of being revealed, implying either the unpredictable spread of information, the presence of human informers, or, more profoundly, the ultimate knowledge and accountability before God, a concept powerfully reiterated in [Luke 12:2-3](/luke/12-2 "Luke 12:2-3 - Nothing Hidden That Will Not Be Revealed").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Curse (Hebrew, _qâlal'_):** From H7043, this primitive root means "to be (causatively, make) light, literally (swift, small, sharp, etc.) or figuratively (easy, trifling, vile, etc.)." In this context, it signifies treating someone lightly, despising, reviling, or pronouncing a curse upon them. It implies a profound lack of respect and a desire for harm or misfortune to befall the object of the curse, even if only expressed internally, demonstrating a deep-seated contempt.
* **Thought (Hebrew, _maddâʻ'_):** From H4093, derived from the root `yâdaʻ` (to know), this word refers to "intelligence or consciousness; knowledge, science, thought." Its inclusion here is crucial, extending the prohibition beyond spoken words to the very inner workings of one's mind. It emphasizes that even unexpressed disdain or ill-will, residing solely in one's consciousness, is considered a transgression and carries potential for consequence.
* **Matter (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** From H1697, this word is highly versatile, meaning "a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause." Here, it refers to the content of the "voice" or the secret communication. It underscores that the entire substance of the hidden thought or curse, the very essence of the disrespectful sentiment, will be conveyed and made known, leaving nothing concealed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Curse not the king, no not in thy thought;":** This initial clause establishes the primary prohibition and its radical scope. The command "curse not" (Hebrew, `qâlal`) extends beyond overt speech to the most private realm of one's consciousness—"no not in thy thought" (Hebrew, `maddâʻ`). This emphasizes that internal attitudes of contempt or ill-will towards authority are just as problematic as spoken words, suggesting an underlying moral principle that governs the heart and mind.
* **"and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber:":** This expands the scope of the warning to include "the rich" (Hebrew, `‘ashîyr`), who represent another class of influential individuals, and specifies the "bedchamber" (Hebrew, `cheder`), the most secluded and intimate space. This reinforces the idea that no place, however private, offers true sanctuary from the implications of one's negative sentiments, highlighting the pervasive nature of the principle that even the most hidden animosity can have repercussions.
* **"for a bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.":** This final clause provides the rationale for the preceding prohibitions, using vivid metaphorical language. The "bird of the air" (Hebrew, `ʻôwph shâmayim`) and "that which hath wings" (Hebrew, `baʻal kânâph`) symbolize the mysterious and often unpredictable ways in which hidden information or secret thoughts can be revealed. The "voice" (Hebrew, `qôwl`) and "matter" (Hebrew, `dâbâr`) refer to the content of the curse or disrespectful thought. This imagery suggests that even the most carefully guarded secrets can be exposed, either through human agency (e.g., informers, gossip) or, more profoundly, through divine oversight and the inherent consequences of one's actions and attitudes.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 10:20 masterfully employs **Metaphor** and **Personification** to convey its urgent warning. The central metaphor of "a bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter" vividly illustrates the unpredictable and inescapable dissemination of information. Birds, typically associated with freedom and flight, are personified as active agents of revelation, implying that secrets, no matter how deeply buried, have an uncanny ability to surface. This serves as a powerful **Hyperbole**, exaggerating the speed and certainty of disclosure to underscore the futility of attempting to conceal contempt. The phrase also contains a subtle **Parallelism** between "a bird of the air" and "that which hath wings," reinforcing the message through repetition and variation, emphasizing the inevitability of revelation. This rich imagery creates a sense of divine or cosmic surveillance, suggesting that even unspoken thoughts are not truly hidden from the universe's order, or ultimately, from God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ecclesiastes 10:20 transcends a mere warning against sedition, delving into the profound theological truth that our inner world is not hidden from God, and that even private thoughts and words carry spiritual weight and potential consequences. It underscores the biblical principle that true righteousness begins in the heart, extending to our attitudes towards authority and our fellow human beings. The verse implicitly points to the omniscience of God, suggesting that what is hidden from human eyes is fully known to the divine. This understanding compels a deeper level of self-examination and moral accountability, recognizing that our character is forged not just in public actions but in the secret chambers of our minds and hearts. It reminds us that God sees beyond the outward appearance, scrutinizing the very intentions and dispositions of our souls.

* [Proverbs 15:3](/proverbs/15-3 "Proverbs 15:3 - The Eyes of the Lord Are Everywhere")
* [Matthew 12:36-37](/matthew/12-36 "Matthew 12:36-37 - Account for Every Careless Word")
* [Hebrews 4:13](/hebrews/4-13 "Hebrews 4:13 - Nothing Is Hidden from God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ecclesiastes 10:20 challenges us to cultivate a profound sense of integrity, recognizing that our inner thoughts and private words are not inconsequential. In an age where public discourse is often characterized by vitriol and contempt for authority, this verse calls believers to a higher standard. It compels us to examine our hearts for any seeds of bitterness, resentment, or disdain towards leaders, whether in government, the church, or our workplaces. While legitimate critique and advocacy for justice are necessary, the verse warns against a spirit of irreverence that undermines order and breeds destructive attitudes. It encourages us to pray for those in authority, as exhorted in [1 Timothy 2:1-2](/1_timothy/2-1 "1 Timothy 2:1-2 - Prayers for All People, Especially Leaders"), and to cultivate a respectful posture, even when we disagree. Ultimately, it reminds us that our private lives are not truly private in the eyes of God, fostering a greater sense of accountability and encouraging us to align our inner attitudes with biblical principles of honor and submission. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that true wisdom extends to the unseen realm of our thoughts, shaping our character and potential influence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific attitudes or thoughts do I harbor towards authority figures (e.g., political leaders, employers, church leaders) that might violate the spirit of this verse?**
* **How does the idea that "a bird of the air shall carry the voice" influence my understanding of accountability for my private thoughts and words?**
* **In what practical ways can I cultivate a more respectful and prayerful disposition towards those in authority, even when I disagree with their decisions or character?**

### FAQ
**Does this verse forbid all criticism or disagreement with authority figures?**

Answer: No, the verse does not forbid all criticism or disagreement, but rather targets "cursing" (Hebrew, `qâlal`), which implies contempt, reviling, or wishing ill upon someone. It's about the *spirit* and *intent* behind the words or thoughts. Biblical wisdom often encourages discernment and speaking truth, but always within a framework of honor and respect for the office, if not always the individual. For instance, prophets often spoke truth to power, but their words were rooted in divine authority and a desire for righteousness, not personal contempt. The emphasis here is on avoiding a destructive, seditious spirit, even in private, that undermines legitimate authority and can lead to unforeseen negative consequences.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 10:20, with its warning against hidden contempt and the certainty of revelation, finds its ultimate fulfillment and transformation in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament law and wisdom literature often focused on outward conformity and the consequences of actions, Jesus consistently elevated the standard to the heart. He taught that anger without cause is akin to murder, as revealed in [Matthew 5:21-22](/matthew/5-21 "Matthew 5:21-22 - Anger and Murder"), and lust is adultery of the heart, as He expounded in [Matthew 5:27-28](/matthew/5-27 "Matthew 5:27-28 - Adultery and Lust"). Thus, the "curse... in thy thought" from Ecclesiastes is precisely the kind of internal sin that Jesus exposed and addressed, demonstrating that true righteousness begins in the inner man. Furthermore, the "bird of the air" revealing secrets points forward to the ultimate revelation of all things before the omniscient God, a truth fully unveiled in the New Testament where we learn that "nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight," a profound truth articulated in [Hebrews 4:13](/hebrews/4-13 "Hebrews 4:13 - Nothing Is Hidden from God"). Christ, as the perfect Lamb of God, did not curse or revile those in authority, even when unjustly condemned, as exemplified in [1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering"), modeling the very submission and honor that Ecclesiastes advocates. His sacrifice on the cross not only atones for our outward sins but also purifies the hidden contempt and rebellion of our hearts, offering a new spirit of humility and reverence through the indwelling Holy Spirit, as promised in [Ezekiel 36:26-27](/ezekiel/36-26 "Ezekiel 36:26-27 - A New Heart and Spirit"). In Christ, we are empowered to live not out of fear of exposure, but out of love and a transformed inner disposition that honors God and those He has placed in authority, reflecting the character of our King.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 23:5

Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.

Luke 12:2

For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known.

Luke 12:3

Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.

Exodus 22:28

Thou shalt not revile the gods, nor curse the ruler of thy people.

Ecclesiastes 7:21

Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee:

Ecclesiastes 7:22

For oftentimes also thine own heart knoweth that thou thyself likewise hast cursed others.

2 Kings 6:12

And one of his servants said, None, my lord, O king: but Elisha, the prophet that [is] in Israel, telleth the king of Israel the words that thou speakest in thy bedchamber.