Ecclesiastes 3:15

KJV

That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past.

KJV (with Strong's)

That which hath been is now {H3528}; and that which is to be hath already {H3528} been; and God {H430} requireth {H1245} that which is past {H7291}.

Complete Jewish Bible

That which was is here already; and that which will be has already been, but God seeks out what people chase after.

Berean Standard Bible

What exists has already been, and what will be has already been, for God will call to account what has passed.

American Standard Version

That which is hath been long ago; and that which is to be hath long ago been: and God seeketh again that which is passed away.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 3:15 articulates a profound truth about the nature of time and God's enduring sovereignty within it. The Preacher asserts that history is cyclical, with past events and patterns repeating in the present and prefiguring the future. Amidst this seemingly endless repetition, the verse culminates in the declaration that God actively "requires" or "seeks out" that which has transpired, underscoring His ultimate control, memory, and purpose over all of creation and its unfolding narrative.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the iconic "a time for everything" poem in [Ecclesiastes 3:1-8](/ecclesiastes/3-1 "Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 - A Time for Everything"), which meticulously lists various human experiences and activities, emphasizing their cyclical nature and divine appointment. The Preacher then reflects on the human inability to fully comprehend God's work ([Ecclesiastes 3:11](/ecclesiastes/3-11 "Ecclesiastes 3:11 - God's Work and Eternity")), despite God having "set eternity in their hearts." Verse 15 serves as a theological conclusion to this section, reinforcing the idea that the patterns observed in human life are not random but are overseen by a sovereign God who is intimately involved in the flow of history, ensuring that nothing is truly lost or forgotten. It bridges the observation of life's rhythms with a deeper theological statement about divine oversight.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ecclesiastes is part of the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, traditionally attributed to King Solomon. Written from the perspective of "Koheleth" (the Preacher or Teacher), it grapples with the meaning of life "under the sun"—that is, from a human perspective limited by earthly experience and observation. The ancient Near Eastern worldview often perceived time as cyclical, tied to the rhythms of nature (seasons, harvests, sun's movement), rather than a strictly linear progression towards a fixed eschatological end, though elements of both exist in biblical thought. The Preacher's observations resonate with this cyclical understanding, but he uniquely integrates it with a robust theology of God's active involvement. The idea that God "requires" or "seeks" what has passed would have resonated with a culture that understood divine justice and accountability as fundamental aspects of God's character and interaction with humanity.
* **Key Themes:** Ecclesiastes 3:15 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book. Firstly, it reinforces the **Cyclical Nature of Time and Human Experience**, a concept introduced early in the book, notably in [Ecclesiastes 1:9](/ecclesiastes/1-9 "Ecclesiastes 1:9 - Nothing New Under the Sun"), which states, "There is nothing new under the sun." This repetition often leads to the theme of *hebel* (vanity or futility) when viewed apart from God. Secondly, the verse highlights **God's Sovereignty Over Time and History**. Despite the apparent monotony or meaninglessness of cycles, God remains the ultimate orchestrator, ensuring His purposes are fulfilled. This divine oversight provides a crucial counterpoint to the pessimistic observations elsewhere in the book. Finally, "God requireth that which is past" introduces the profound theme of **Divine Accountability and Remembrance**. It implies that God is not a detached observer but actively remembers, judges, and perhaps even redeems or brings to account all that has transpired, ensuring continuity and purpose in the historical narrative, even if humans cannot fully grasp it ([Ecclesiastes 3:11](/ecclesiastes/3-11 "Ecclesiastes 3:11 - God's Work and Eternity")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **now (Hebrew, _kᵉbâr'_):** This word, also translated as "already" in the second clause, refers to an "extent of time," specifically "long ago, formerly, hitherto." Its repetition emphasizes the deep continuity between past, present, and future, suggesting that what is happening now has precedents and echoes from long ago, and what is to come has already been established in divine decree or historical patterns. It underscores the Preacher's observation of recurring patterns in human existence.
* **God (Hebrew, _ʼĕlôhîym'_):** This is the generic plural term for God, often used for the supreme God in the Old Testament. Its presence here is crucial, shifting the focus from mere human observation of cyclical time to the divine agent who stands above and orchestrates all of history. It asserts that the patterns are not random but are part of a divinely ordered reality, implying His power, wisdom, and ultimate authority over all temporal affairs.
* **requireth (Hebrew, _bâqash'_):** This primitive root means "to search out," "to strive after," "to ask," "to beg," "to desire," "to inquire," "to procure," "to request," or "to seek." In this context, it suggests God's active engagement with the past. He doesn't merely observe; He "seeks out" or "requires" what has been. This can imply divine remembrance, accountability (God bringing past deeds to account), or even a divine pursuit of His purposes through the ages, ensuring that nothing that has transpired is without meaning or consequence in His overarching plan. It hints at divine justice and the ultimate fulfillment of His will.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That which hath been is now":** This clause asserts the repetitive nature of human experience and history. The past is not merely gone but actively informs and mirrors the present. Events, human behaviors, joys, and sorrows are not entirely new phenomena but echoes of what has already occurred. This highlights a sense of continuity and predictability in the "under the sun" existence.
* **"and that which is to be hath already been":** Building on the first clause, this extends the cyclical pattern into the future. What is yet to unfold has, in essence, already been in some form or another. This can be understood as a statement about recurring human conditions, inevitable consequences, or even God's pre-ordained plan for history. It reinforces the idea that there are fundamental patterns to life that transcend individual generations.
* **"and God requireth that which is past":** This is the theological climax of the verse. After observing the cycles, the Preacher introduces the divine actor. "God" (ʼĕlôhîym) is not passive but actively "requires" (bâqash) what has transpired. This implies divine memory, accountability for deeds done, and the ongoing fulfillment of God's purposes through history. It suggests that God ensures continuity, justice, and meaning in the seemingly repetitive flow of time, bringing to account all that has been, whether for judgment, restoration, or the unfolding of His sovereign plan.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 3:15 employs several powerful literary devices. **Repetition** is evident in the parallel structure of the first two clauses ("That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been"), emphasizing the cyclical nature of time and human experience. This creates a sense of inevitability and continuity. There is also an element of **Paradox** or seeming contradiction: how can something "be now" and "already been" simultaneously? This highlights the Preacher's profound observation that history is not linear in the way humans often perceive it, but rather a complex interplay of recurrence. Finally, the phrase "God requireth that which is past" utilizes a form of **Anthropomorphism**, attributing to God the human action of "requiring" or "seeking out." This device makes God's active involvement in history relatable and underscores His personal engagement with the past, implying His memory, justice, and sovereign purpose.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ecclesiastes 3:15 offers a profound theological statement about God's relationship with time and human history. It counters the potential despair of life's apparent futility and repetition by firmly placing God as the ultimate sovereign. The cyclical nature of existence, which might otherwise lead to a sense of meaninglessness ("under the sun"), is here shown to be under divine control. God's "requiring" of the past implies a divine memory, an active engagement with all that has occurred, and a commitment to bringing His purposes to fruition. This suggests that history is not a random series of events but an unfolding narrative in which God ensures accountability, justice, and the ultimate realization of His will. It provides a foundational truth that while human endeavors may seem fleeting, God's eternal plan transcends temporal limitations, giving ultimate meaning to every moment.

* [Malachi 3:6](/malachi/3-6 "Malachi 3:6 - God Does Not Change"): "For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed."
* [Hebrews 13:8](/hebrews/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the Same"): "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever."
* [Psalm 90:1-2](/psalm/90-1 "Psalm 90:1-2 - God as Eternal Refuge"): "Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse, while seemingly fatalistic at first glance, offers deep comfort and a call to intentional living for the believer. Understanding that "that which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been" encourages us to learn from history, both personal and collective. It reminds us that human nature and its challenges often repeat, urging us to seek wisdom from past generations and the unchanging truths of God's Word rather than assuming our experiences are entirely novel. More profoundly, the declaration that "God requireth that which is past" provides immense spiritual nourishment. It assures us that God is not distant or indifferent to the passage of time or the events within it. He remembers every deed, every tear, every act of faithfulness, and every injustice. This divine memory means that nothing is truly lost or forgotten in His sight. It brings a sense of accountability for our actions, knowing that our lives are lived before an all-knowing God who will ultimately bring all things to account. Yet, it also offers profound hope: where human efforts fail or injustices persist, God's ultimate justice and redemptive purposes will prevail. This truth empowers us to live with purpose, knowing that our lives contribute to a divinely orchestrated narrative, and that even our past failures can be redeemed and integrated into God's perfect plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the cyclical nature of life described in this verse challenge or comfort your perception of your own experiences?**
* **Knowing that "God requireth that which is past," how does this truth influence your understanding of accountability for your actions, both good and bad?**
* **In what ways can recognizing God's sovereignty over time and history help you find meaning and purpose even in seemingly repetitive or difficult seasons of life?**
* **How might learning from past generations or historical events inform your present decisions and future outlook, in light of this verse?**

### FAQ
**What does "God requireth that which is past" truly mean?**

Answer: This phrase signifies God's active engagement with history. It implies several things: firstly, God's perfect **remembrance** – nothing that has occurred is forgotten by Him. Secondly, it speaks to divine **accountability** and **justice**; God will bring all deeds, whether good or evil, to account in His perfect timing and according to His righteous standards. This is echoed in passages like [Romans 14:12](/romans/14-12 "Romans 14:12 - Everyone Will Give Account to God"). Thirdly, it suggests God's **continuity of purpose**; He is not bound by human timeframes but is always working His eternal plan through the ages, ensuring that past events contribute to His ultimate will and that His promises are fulfilled.

**Does Ecclesiastes 3:15 imply a fatalistic view of life or a lack of human free will?**

Answer: No, this verse does not promote fatalism or deny human free will. Instead, it emphasizes God's ultimate sovereignty and control over the grand sweep of history. While patterns may repeat and human life may feel cyclical, the Preacher is highlighting that these cycles are not random or meaningless but are overseen by a purposeful God. It's a theological statement about God's unchanging nature and His consistent work through time, rather than a declaration that individual human choices are inconsequential. Humans still have moral agency and are called to live wisely and righteously within the framework of God's sovereign plan, as the rest of Ecclesiastes and the Bible affirm (e.g., [Ecclesiastes 12:13-14](/ecclesiastes/12-13 "Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 - The Whole Duty of Man")).

**How does this verse relate to the concept of "nothing new under the sun" found elsewhere in Ecclesiastes?**

Answer: Ecclesiastes 3:15 is a direct theological extension and reinforcement of the "nothing new under the sun" theme first introduced in [Ecclesiastes 1:9](/ecclesiastes/1-9 "Ecclesiastes 1:9 - Nothing New Under the Sun"). Both verses highlight the repetitive and cyclical nature of human experience and historical events. However, Ecclesiastes 3:15 adds a crucial dimension: it introduces God as the active agent behind these cycles. While [Ecclesiastes 1:9](/ecclesiastes/1-9 "Ecclesiastes 1:9 - Nothing New Under the Sun") describes the observation of repetition from a human perspective, [Ecclesiastes 3:15](/ecclesiastes/3-15 "Ecclesiastes 3:15 - God's Sovereignty Over Time") reveals that this repetition is not a sign of chaotic meaninglessness, but rather a testament to God's unchanging character and His sovereign hand guiding all things, ensuring that even the past is accounted for in His divine scheme.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 3:15 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, who stands as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, transcending all cycles of time and history. While the Old Testament verse speaks of the repetitive nature of human experience and God's requiring of the past, Christ breaks the cycle of sin and death that perpetually entrapped humanity. The "past" that God "requires" is fundamentally addressed in Christ's atoning sacrifice. The Law, with its demands for righteousness, represented God's requirement, and humanity's failure to meet it was a continuous cycle of sin and judgment. However, [Romans 8:3-4](/romans/8-3 "Romans 8:3-4 - Christ Fulfills the Law") explains that God sent His own Son to fulfill the righteous requirement of the Law, thereby breaking the cycle of condemnation. Jesus, as the eternal Son, is "the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever" ([Hebrews 13:8](/hebrews/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the Same")), embodying the unchanging nature of God who oversees all time. Furthermore, in Christ, "old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" ([2_corinthians/5-17](/2-corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")). He is not merely a repetition of the past but the inaugurator of a new creation, where the futility "under the sun" is overcome by the hope of glory in Him. The divine "requiring" of the past is fulfilled in His judgment of sin on the cross, and His resurrection guarantees a future that is truly new, not merely a re-run of what has already been. He is the one in whom all things hold together ([colossians/1-17](/colossians/1-17 "Colossians 1:17 - Christ Upholds All Things")), giving ultimate meaning and purpose to every moment of history, from creation to consummation.

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 1:9

¶ The thing that hath been, it [is that] which shall be; and that which is done [is] that which shall be done: and [there is] no new [thing] under the sun.

Ecclesiastes 1:10

Is there [any] thing whereof it may be said, See, this [is] new? it hath been already of old time, which was before us.

Ecclesiastes 6:10

That which hath been is named already, and it is known that it [is] man: neither may he contend with him that is mightier than he.