Ecclesiastes 10:5

KJV

There is an evil [which] I have seen under the sun, as an error [which] proceedeth from the ruler:

KJV (with Strong's)

There is {H3426} an evil {H7451} which I have seen {H7200} under the sun {H8121}, as an error {H7684} which proceedeth {H3318} from {H6440} the ruler {H7989}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Another evil I have seen under the sun, the kind of mistake rulers make, is that

Berean Standard Bible

There is an evil I have seen under the sun— an error that proceeds from the ruler:

American Standard Version

There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, as it were an error which proceedeth from the ruler:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 10:5 reveals a poignant observation by Qoheleth concerning a pervasive societal ill: the detrimental consequences that arise from the misjudgment or moral failings of those in positions of power. This verse highlights the profound impact that a ruler's error can have, leading to widespread "evil" or adversity within the community, thereby underscoring the Preacher's consistent theme of the brokenness and paradoxes inherent in life "under the sun."

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ecclesiastes 10 is a chapter largely dedicated to contrasting wisdom and folly, particularly as they manifest in public life and leadership. Following a general discussion of how a little folly can spoil much wisdom (Ecclesiastes 10:1), and the practical implications of wisdom versus foolishness in daily conduct (Ecclesiastes 10:2-4), this verse shifts focus to the specific and often devastating effects of folly originating from the highest echelons of society. It serves as a direct precursor to the more vivid examples of absurd and inverted leadership found in [Ecclesiastes 10:6-7](/ecclesiastes/10-6 "Ecclesiastes 10:6-7 - Folly in High Places"), where servants are seen riding on horses while princes walk, illustrating the chaos and injustice that can result from a ruler's poor judgment or misplaced priorities. The verse sets the stage for Qoheleth's ongoing lament about the inequities and frustrations observed in the earthly realm.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Ecclesiastes is traditionally attributed to King Solomon, a figure deeply familiar with the complexities of governance and the exercise of power in ancient Israel. In monarchical societies of the ancient Near East, the ruler held immense, often absolute, authority over the lives and well-being of their subjects. Their decisions, whether wise or foolish, just or unjust, directly impacted the entire social and economic fabric. An "error" from such a ruler could range from a simple administrative mistake to a grave moral failing, leading to famine, war, oppression, or economic hardship. The "under the sun" motif, prevalent throughout Ecclesiastes, reflects a worldview that acknowledges the pervasive nature of human fallibility and sin, even among those divinely appointed or otherwise elevated to positions of leadership. This context underscores the vulnerability of the populace to the whims and character of their leaders.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Ecclesiastes. Firstly, it amplifies the theme of **Folly in Leadership**, demonstrating that even those entrusted with significant power are susceptible to errors that yield disastrous outcomes. This is not merely a personal failing but one with profound societal repercussions. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Injustice and Societal Disorder**, as the "evil" observed is often a direct result of a ruler's actions that subvert justice, leading to distress, unfairness, and instability within the community. This aligns with Qoheleth's broader observations on the brokenness of the world, where righteousness is not always rewarded and wickedness often prevails, as seen in [Ecclesiastes 3:16](/ecclesiastes/3-16 "Ecclesiastes 3:16 - Injustice in the Place of Justice"). Finally, the phrase "under the sun" reinforces the overarching theme of **Life's Imperfections and Frustrations from an Earthly Perspective**. It underscores Qoheleth's realistic, sometimes pessimistic, view that even in positions of power, human fallibility and the consequences of sin persist, leading to observable societal problems that defy simple solutions or explanations. This perspective is foundational to the entire book, as illustrated by the recurring motif in [Ecclesiastes 1:3](/ecclesiastes/1-3 "Ecclesiastes 1:3 - The Futility of Toil Under the Sun") and many subsequent verses.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **evil (Hebrew, _raʻ'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to be bad," encompasses a wide semantic range, including moral evil, physical harm, misfortune, calamity, or distress. In Ecclesiastes 10:5, it signifies a detrimental or harmful outcome that Qoheleth has personally observed. It is not merely an abstract concept but a tangible, negative consequence experienced by the people, often as a result of the ruler's actions. It points to the suffering or injustice that permeates society due to flawed governance.
* **error (Hebrew, _shᵉgâgâh'_):** This word typically denotes a mistake, an inadvertent transgression, or an oversight. However, in the context of a ruler's actions, especially when leading to "evil," it can carry a heavier connotation. While it might imply a lack of wisdom or foresight rather than intentional malice, it nevertheless signifies a significant misjudgment or deviation from proper governance that has profound and damaging consequences for the populace. It highlights the ruler's fallibility and the far-reaching impact of their flawed decisions.
* **ruler (Hebrew, _shallîyṭ'_):** This noun refers to one who has dominion, authority, or power; a potentate, governor, or prince. It emphasizes the position of authority from which the "error" proceeds. The term underscores that the source of the societal "evil" is not a common person's mistake but originates from the very top of the social hierarchy, where decisions have widespread implications and where wisdom and justice are most critically needed.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"There is an evil which I have seen under the sun":** This opening clause establishes Qoheleth's personal observation and the universal scope of the problem. The phrase "under the sun" is a signature motif in Ecclesiastes, denoting life from a purely human, earthly perspective, devoid of direct divine intervention or ultimate eternal perspective. The "evil" (raʻ) is a tangible, observable negative reality—a distress, injustice, or calamity—that the Preacher has witnessed firsthand in the temporal realm.
* **"as an error which proceedeth from the ruler":** This clause identifies the specific source and nature of the "evil." The "evil" is presented "as" (or "like") an "error" (shᵉgâgâh) that originates or "proceeds" (yâtsâʼ) directly "from" (pânîym, here used prepositionally as 'from the face of' or 'from the presence of') the "ruler" (shallîyṭ). This highlights that the societal distress is not random but a direct consequence of a flaw, misjudgment, or moral failing on the part of the governing authority. It implies that the ruler's actions, however unintentional the "error" may be, are the direct cause of widespread societal harm.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 10:5 employs several literary devices to convey its message. The most prominent is **Observation**, as Qoheleth explicitly states, "There is an evil which I have seen under the sun," framing the verse as a direct report of his empirical findings regarding life's paradoxes. This personal observation lends authority and realism to his critique. The phrase "under the sun" functions as a recurring **Motif** throughout Ecclesiastes, signifying the earthly, temporal realm where human limitations and the effects of sin are most apparent, emphasizing the futility and brokenness inherent in this existence. Furthermore, the verse uses **Cause and Effect** to link the "error" of the ruler directly to the resulting "evil" in society, illustrating a clear chain of consequence. There is also an element of **Irony** in that the very person meant to bring order and justice (the ruler) is identified as the source of disorder and "evil."

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ecclesiastes 10:5 speaks profoundly to the theological understanding of human governance and the pervasive nature of sin. It underscores that even in positions of power, human fallibility remains, and the consequences of flawed leadership ripple through society, causing widespread "evil" or distress. This observation aligns with the biblical truth that all humanity, including rulers, is fallen and susceptible to error and sin ([Romans 3:23](/romans/3-23 "Romans 3:23 - All Have Sinned")). The verse implicitly calls for righteous governance, highlighting the divine standard for leadership, where rulers are expected to be ministers of God for good ([Romans 13:4](/romans/13-4 "Romans 13:4 - Ruler as God's Servant")). The "evil" that proceeds from the ruler's error is a manifestation of the brokenness of the world "under the sun," a theme central to Ecclesiastes, reminding us that true justice and perfect order are ultimately beyond human achievement in this fallen world.

* [Proverbs 29:2](/proverbs/29-2 "Proverbs 29:2 - Righteous vs. Wicked Rulers")
* [Romans 13:1-7](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1-7 - Submission to Governing Authorities")
* [Daniel 4:17](/daniel/4-17 "Daniel 4:17 - God's Sovereignty Over Kingdoms")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ecclesiastes 10:5 serves as a timeless mirror reflecting the persistent challenges of leadership in any era. It compels us to recognize that the quality of governance profoundly impacts the well-being of society. When those in authority make "errors"—whether through ignorance, negligence, or moral failing—the resulting "evil" can manifest as injustice, economic hardship, social unrest, or a general decline in societal flourishing. This verse calls us to a sober assessment of leadership, encouraging discernment and vigilance. It reminds us that while we are to respect and pray for those in authority, we are also called to be aware of the potential for human imperfection to cause harm. For those who are leaders, it is a stark reminder of the immense responsibility that accompanies power and the critical need for wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to justice in every decision. For citizens, it encourages active engagement (where appropriate) and prayer for righteous leadership, understanding that the health of a nation is deeply intertwined with the character and competence of its rulers.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "evil" or societal distress have you observed that seems to stem from "errors" in leadership today?**
* **How does this verse challenge our expectations of human leaders, and what does it teach us about the source of true justice?**
* **In what ways can individuals, even without formal authority, contribute to mitigating the "evil" that arises from flawed leadership?**

### FAQ
**Does "error" imply the ruler is always unintentional in causing harm?**

Answer: While the Hebrew word `shᵉgâgâh` (H7684) often implies an inadvertent mistake or oversight, in the context of a ruler's actions leading to "evil" (`raʻ`, H7451), it can extend beyond simple unintentionality. It might encompass a profound lack of wisdom, a significant misjudgment, or a deviation from justice that, while not necessarily malicious in intent, still results in severe and damaging consequences. The Preacher's observation is less about the ruler's precise intent and more about the observable, negative outcome for society when power is wielded imperfectly. The "error" could be a failure to act wisely, a misapplication of policy, or a moral lapse that has widespread repercussions, as seen in the consequences of King David's actions in [2 Samuel 24](/2_samuel/24 "2 Samuel 24 - David's Census and its Consequences").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 10:5, with its lament over the "evil" that proceeds from the "error" of human rulers, finds its ultimate resolution and hope in the person and reign of Jesus Christ. The Preacher's observation highlights the inherent brokenness of human governance, where even the most powerful individuals are prone to fallibility and sin, leading to injustice and suffering. This brokenness points to humanity's desperate need for a perfect, righteous ruler—a need perfectly fulfilled in Christ. Unlike earthly rulers whose errors bring "evil," Jesus is the [King of Kings and Lord of Lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - Jesus, King of Kings"), whose reign is characterized by absolute righteousness, justice, and truth. His kingdom is not "under the sun" in the sense of being subject to earthly limitations and corruptions, but is an eternal kingdom of peace and righteousness ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prophecy of the Messiah's Reign")). Where human rulers fail and cause "evil," Christ, the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), takes away the sin of the world, offering ultimate redemption and establishing a perfect government where no error or evil will proceed from Him. His sacrifice on the cross addresses the root cause of all human error and evil, paving the way for a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells ([2 Peter 3:13](/2_peter/3-13 "2 Peter 3:13 - New Heavens and New Earth")). Thus, Ecclesiastes 10:5, in its stark realism about human leadership, implicitly longs for the perfect reign of the Messiah.

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

Ecclesiastes 5:13

There is a sore evil [which] I have seen under the sun, [namely], riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt.

Ecclesiastes 9:3

This [is] an evil among all [things] that are done under the sun, that [there is] one event unto all: yea, also the heart of the sons of men is full of evil, and madness [is] in their heart while they live, and after that [they go] to the dead.

Ecclesiastes 4:1

¶ So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of [such as were] oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors [there was] power; but they had no comforter.

Ecclesiastes 6:1

¶ There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, and it [is] common among men:

Ecclesiastes 4:7

¶ Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun.

Ecclesiastes 3:16

¶ And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, [that] wickedness [was] there; and the place of righteousness, [that] iniquity [was] there.