4:12 4:12

Ecclesiastes 4:13

4:14 4:14

Bible Versions

¶ Better [is] a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish king, who will no more be admonished.
Better {H2896} is a poor {H4542} and a wise {H2450} child {H3206} than an old {H2205} and foolish {H3684} king {H4428}, who will {H3045} no more be admonished {H2094}.
Better a youth who is poor but wise than a king who is old but foolish, no longer willing to listen to advice.
Better is a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to take a warning.
Better is a poor and wise youth than an old and foolish king, who knoweth not how to receive admonition any more.

Ecclesiastes 4:13 presents a profound observation on the true value of wisdom and teachability versus the fleeting nature of power and stubbornness. It highlights that a person of humble beginnings who possesses wisdom and is open to instruction is far superior to a powerful, aged ruler who has become impervious to advice or correction.

Context

This verse is situated within a section of Ecclesiastes where Qoheleth (the Preacher) reflects on the futility and injustice often found in life under the sun. The preceding verses in chapter 4 lament the oppression experienced by the powerless and the loneliness that can accompany solitary striving, even successful ambition. Against this backdrop of earthly striving and its often unsatisfactory results, verse 13 introduces a powerful contrast: the intrinsic worth of wisdom and a receptive spirit, regardless of social standing, compared to the ultimate weakness of an unteachable, powerful individual. It speaks to the dangers of pride and arrogance that can accompany great power.

Key Themes

  • Wisdom Over Status: The core message is that wisdom and a discerning spirit are far more valuable than inherited power, wealth, or advanced age. A "poor and wise child" symbolizes potential, humility, and the capacity for growth.
  • Folly of Unteachability: The "old and foolish king" represents someone who, despite having power and experience, has become closed off to counsel. His refusal to be "admonished" signifies a dangerous stubbornness that leads to his downfall or inability to lead effectively. This contrasts sharply with the beginning of wisdom often found in humility.
  • Humility and Receptiveness: The verse implicitly praises humility and the willingness to learn, traits often found in the young or those without great status, but frequently lost by those in positions of power.
  • The Cycle of Power: While not explicitly stated, the imagery of a young person potentially replacing an old king subtly hints at the transient nature of earthly power and the cyclical rise and fall of leaders, often determined by their character and wisdom.

Linguistic Insights

The key phrase "who will no more be admonished" translates the Hebrew verb zahar (זָהַר), which means to be warned, instructed, enlightened, or corrected. The negative construction emphasizes the king's absolute refusal to receive any form of guidance or warning. This stubbornness is presented as his defining flaw, rendering his power ultimately useless or even detrimental, unlike the wise child who is presumably open to instruction.

Practical Application

Ecclesiastes 4:13 serves as a timeless warning and encouragement for all.

  • Value Wisdom: It teaches us to prioritize acquiring wisdom and understanding over seeking mere status, wealth, or power. True influence and effectiveness come from a discerning mind and a teachable spirit.
  • Cultivate Humility: Regardless of age, experience, or position, we must remain humble and open to correction and new insights. The moment we believe we "know it all" or are beyond reproach is when we become foolish, akin to the old king. God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.
  • Leadership Lessons: For those in positions of authority, the verse is a stark reminder that true leadership requires listening, learning, and adapting. A leader who cannot be admonished is a leader destined for failure.
  • Embrace Lifelong Learning: The "wise child" embodies the spirit of continuous learning and growth, a virtue that remains invaluable throughout life.

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.

  • 2 Chronicles 25:16

    And it came to pass, as he talked with him, that [the king] said unto him, Art thou made of the king's counsel? forbear; why shouldest thou be smitten? Then the prophet forbare, and said, I know that God hath determined to destroy thee, because thou hast done this, and hast not hearkened unto my counsel.

  • 2 Chronicles 16:9

    For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of [them] whose heart [is] perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.

  • 2 Chronicles 16:10

    Then Asa was wroth with the seer, and put him in a prison house; for [he was] in a rage with him because of this [thing]. And Asa oppressed [some] of the people the same time.

  • Proverbs 19:1

    ¶ Better [is] the poor that walketh in his integrity, than [he that is] perverse in his lips, and is a fool.

  • Proverbs 28:15

    ¶ [As] a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; [so is] a wicked ruler over the poor people.

  • Proverbs 28:16

    ¶ The prince that wanteth understanding [is] also a great oppressor: [but] he that hateth covetousness shall prolong [his] days.

  • Ecclesiastes 9:15

    Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man.
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