3:6 3:6

Ecclesiastes 3:7

3:8 3:8

Bible Versions

A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time {H6256} to rend {H7167}, and a time {H6256} to sew {H8609}; a time {H6256} to keep silence {H2814}, and a time {H6256} to speak {H1696};
a time to tear and a time to sew, a time to keep silent and a time to speak,
a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

Ecclesiastes 3:7 is part of the famous poetic passage in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, often referred to as "a time for everything." This verse highlights two pairs of contrasting human actions, emphasizing the appropriate timing for each, underscoring the Preacher's (Qoheleth's) profound observations on life's divinely ordered cycles.

Context

This verse is nestled within a larger poem that lists fourteen pairs of opposite human experiences and actions, all under the overarching theme that there is a specific, divinely appointed "time" for every activity under heaven. The author, traditionally King Solomon, presents these contrasts not as random occurrences but as part of a structured reality, implying a sovereign hand guiding the flow of life. The wisdom of Ecclesiastes often encourages readers to discern and accept these inherent rhythms rather than fighting against them, finding peace in God's ultimate control.

Key Themes

  • Discretion and Appropriateness: The core message is the importance of wisdom in knowing when to perform a particular action. Life demands discernment, recognizing that what is appropriate in one season or situation may be entirely inappropriate in another.
  • Cycles of Human Experience: The verse, like the entire poem, illustrates the cyclical and often paradoxical nature of human existence. From profound grief to joyful restoration, from silent contemplation to assertive communication, life is a tapestry woven with contrasting threads.
  • Divine Orchestration: While human choice is involved, the repeated phrase "a time to..." suggests that these moments are not purely accidental but are part of a larger, divinely ordained framework. Understanding and aligning with this divine timing brings greater peace and effectiveness.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrases "to rend" and "to sew" carry significant cultural weight:

  • A time to rend: The Hebrew word is qara‘ (קָרַע), meaning "to tear" or "to rip." In ancient Near Eastern culture, tearing one's garments was a powerful and common expression of profound grief, sorrow, distress, or indignation. Examples include Jacob tearing his clothes upon hearing of Joseph's presumed death or David tearing his clothes at the news of Saul's death. It symbolized a breaking, an outward manifestation of an inner agony.
  • A time to sew: The Hebrew is taphar (תָּפַר), meaning "to sew" or "to mend." This action directly contrasts with rending and signifies the end of a period of mourning, the restoration of order, or a return to normal life. It represents healing, recovery, and putting things back together.
  • A time to keep silence: The Hebrew chashah (חָשָׁה) implies being quiet, holding one's peace, or refraining from speaking. This can be out of reverence, shock, strategic wisdom, or deep sorrow where words are inadequate.
  • A time to speak: The Hebrew dabar (דָּבַר) refers to uttering words, communicating, or declaring. This emphasizes that there are moments when communication is essential, whether for teaching, admonishing, comforting, or testifying.

Related Scriptures

The wisdom of knowing when to be silent and when to speak is a recurring theme in biblical wisdom literature. Proverbs 17:28 states, "Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise," highlighting the value of restraint. Conversely, there are times when silence is not an option, such as when one must speak the truth of God's word, as Peter and John declared in Acts 4:20. The concept of rending garments is contrasted with rending one's heart, not garments, in Joel 2:13, emphasizing true repentance over outward displays.

Practical Application

Ecclesiastes 3:7 encourages believers to cultivate discernment in their daily lives. It challenges us to:

  • Embrace Life's Full Spectrum: Recognize that both sorrow and joy, silence and speech, have their appointed place. We should not resist necessary seasons of grief or quiet reflection, nor should we shy away from moments when action or vocal expression is required.
  • Seek Divine Wisdom: Pray for wisdom to understand the "times" God has ordained for different actions. This spiritual discernment helps us navigate complex situations, whether it's knowing when to offer comfort or when to allow someone to grieve in silence.
  • Master Communication: Understand the power of both speech and silence. There are moments when words can heal or inspire, and others when silence demonstrates respect, patience, or deep listening. Learning when to speak and when to refrain is a mark of maturity and wisdom, crucial for healthy relationships and spiritual growth.
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.

  • Amos 5:13

    Therefore the prudent shall keep silence in that time; for it [is] an evil time.

  • Micah 7:5

    Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.

  • Esther 4:13

    Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews.

  • Esther 4:14

    For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, [then] shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for [such] a time as this?

  • Proverbs 24:11

    ¶ If thou forbear to deliver [them that are] drawn unto death, and [those that are] ready to be slain;

  • Proverbs 24:12

    If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider [it]? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth [not] he know [it]? and shall [not] he render to [every] man according to his works?

  • Lamentations 3:28

    He sitteth alone and keepeth silence, because he hath borne [it] upon him.
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