Ecclesiastes 5:1

KJV

¶ Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil.

KJV (with Strong's)

Keep {H8104} thy foot {H7272} when thou goest {H3212} to the house {H1004} of God {H430}, and be more ready {H7138} to hear {H8085}, than to give {H5414} the sacrifice {H2077} of fools {H3684}: for they consider {H3045} not that they do {H6213} evil {H7451}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Watch your step when you go to the house of God. Offering to listen is better than fools offering sacrifices, because they don't discern whether or not they are doing evil.

Berean Standard Bible

Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Draw near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.

American Standard Version

Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God; for to draw nigh to hear is better than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they know not that they do evil.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 5:1 offers a profound admonition regarding one's conduct when approaching God in worship. It urges believers to exercise careful reverence, prioritizing attentive listening and obedience to God's word over thoughtless or superficial ritual. The verse warns against the "sacrifice of fools," highlighting that outward religious acts performed without sincerity, understanding, or a right heart are not only futile but are considered evil by God, as those who offer them fail to discern the true nature of their actions.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ecclesiastes, often attributed to Qoheleth (the Preacher), is a significant book within the wisdom literature of the Old Testament. Following a series of philosophical explorations into the "vanity" (Hebrew: _hebel_) of earthly pursuits and human endeavors "under the sun" in chapters 1-4, chapter 5 marks a shift towards more practical, ethical, and spiritual advice concerning one's relationship with God. This verse, [Ecclesiastes 5:1](/ecclesiastes/5-1 "Ecclesiastes 5:1 - Approach God with Reverence"), serves as an opening and foundational principle for proper conduct in the divine presence, setting the stage for subsequent warnings against rash vows, covetousness, and the pursuit of wealth without contentment. It underscores that even in the midst of life's apparent absurdities, one's approach to the sacred must be marked by intentionality and reverence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the "house of God" (Hebrew: _bayith 'elohim_) primarily referred to the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem, which served as the central place of worship, sacrifice, and divine encounter. The sacrificial system, mandated by the Mosaic Law, was integral to Israelite religious life, providing a means for atonement, thanksgiving, and communion with God. However, there was a constant tension between outward ritual performance and inner spiritual sincerity. Prophets frequently condemned the people for offering sacrifices while their hearts were far from God or their lives were marked by injustice (e.g., [Isaiah 1:11-17](/isaiah/1-11 "Isaiah 1:11-17 - God's Displeasure with Empty Rituals"); [Amos 5:21-24](/amos/5-21 "Amos 5:21-24 - Justice Over Ritual")). Ecclesiastes 5:1 speaks directly into this cultural reality, emphasizing that the physical act of going to the Temple and offering sacrifices must be accompanied by a prepared heart, a humble spirit, and a readiness to hear and obey God's instruction, rather than merely engaging in perfunctory or self-serving religious duties.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within Ecclesiastes and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights **reverence in worship**, stressing that approaching God's presence demands a mindful, cautious, and respectful demeanor, recognizing His holiness and majesty. Secondly, it champions the **priority of listening and obedience over mere ritual**. The "more ready to hear" clause emphasizes that genuine attentiveness to God's word and a willingness to obey are far superior to outward religious performance, especially when such performance lacks true spiritual understanding or sincerity. This theme echoes throughout the Old Testament, as seen in [1 Samuel 15:22](/1_samuel/15-22 "1 Samuel 15:22 - Obedience is Better than Sacrifice"). Finally, the verse warns against the **dangers of thoughtless piety**, characterizing insincere offerings as the "sacrifice of fools." This speaks to a profound lack of discernment and genuine connection with God, where religious acts are performed without considering their spiritual implications or the wickedness of a heart that approaches God without true devotion, as also warned in [Proverbs 21:27](/proverbs/21-27 "Proverbs 21:27 - The Sacrifice of the Wicked").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **foot (Hebrew, _regel'_ H7272):** This word, often referring to the physical appendage used in walking, is part of a common Hebrew idiom. In the phrase "Keep thy foot" (with H8104 _shâmar_ "to guard" and H3212 _yâlak_ "to go"), it signifies carefulness, restraint, and deliberate action concerning one's conduct, behavior, and steps, especially when entering a sacred space. It implies a need for circumspection and thoughtful preparation before engaging in divine worship.
* **hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_ H8085):** This primitive root means "to hear intelligently," often carrying the implication of attention, understanding, and obedience. In this context, being "more ready to hear" means prioritizing the reception of God's instruction, wisdom, and commands over one's own agenda or outward religious performance. It points to the spiritual act of listening with a heart prepared to respond in submission and faith.
* **fools (Hebrew, _kᵉçîyl'_ H3684):** Derived from a root meaning "fat" or "stupid," this term describes individuals who are morally and spiritually dull, lacking wisdom, discernment, and genuine understanding. Unlike mere intellectual deficiency, the "fool" in wisdom literature is characterized by a stubborn refusal to acknowledge God or His ways, leading to perverse actions. Their "sacrifice" is therefore not just outwardly flawed but stems from a misguided, ignorant, or even defiant heart, rendering it an abomination to God.
* **consider (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_ H3045):** This root means "to know," encompassing a wide range of senses including observation, care, recognition, and discernment. When the text states "they consider not," it highlights a profound lack of awareness, insight, or moral consciousness regarding their own actions. The fools are spiritually blind, unable or unwilling to recognize the inherent evil or unacceptability of their insincere worship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God,"**: This opening clause serves as an urgent injunction for reverence and caution. "Keep thy foot" is an idiom meaning to be careful, to watch one's steps, or to be deliberate in one's actions. It implies a need for thoughtful preparation and a humble demeanor when entering the sacred space of God's presence, whether the Temple or any place of worship. It's a call to mindfulness, recognizing the holiness of the encounter.
* **"and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools:"**: This is the core contrast and command. The Preacher prioritizes attentive listening and obedience to God's word ("be more ready to hear") over the mere act of offering sacrifices. The "sacrifice of fools" refers to offerings made without sincerity, understanding, or a right heart—religious acts performed out of habit, obligation, or ignorance, rather than genuine devotion. Such offerings are deemed worthless and even offensive to God.
* **"for they consider not that they do evil."**: This final clause explains the profound problem with the "sacrifice of fools." Those who offer them lack discernment; they do not "consider" or "know" (Hebrew: _yâdaʻ_) that their actions are inherently evil or unacceptable in God's sight. Their spiritual blindness prevents them from recognizing the true nature of their insincere worship, highlighting a deep spiritual deficiency and a lack of genuine relationship with God.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 5:1 effectively employs several **literary devices** to convey its urgent message. The phrase "Keep thy foot" is a powerful **idiom**, functioning as a **metonymy** where "foot" represents one's entire conduct or approach. This idiom immediately sets a tone of caution and reverence, signaling that one's demeanor in God's presence is paramount. The verse then establishes a stark **contrast** between "being more ready to hear" and "giving the sacrifice of fools." This juxtaposition highlights the superiority of internal spiritual attentiveness and obedience over external, ritualistic performance. The term "sacrifice of fools" itself is a form of **irony** or **paradox**, as a sacrifice is meant to be an act of devotion, yet here it is rendered contemptible by the character of the offerer. The description of the fools who "consider not that they do evil" employs **pathos** by revealing their tragic spiritual blindness and lack of self-awareness, underscoring the severe consequences of insincere worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ecclesiastes 5:1 resonates deeply with the broader biblical emphasis on the heart's condition in worship and the supremacy of obedience over ritual. It challenges the superficiality of outward religious performance, asserting that God desires genuine devotion and a listening spirit above all else. This principle is a consistent thread throughout both the Old and New Testaments, condemning hypocrisy and empty formalism in favor of true righteousness and a sincere relationship with the Divine. The verse serves as a timeless reminder that while religious practices have their place, they must always flow from a heart transformed by God's word and committed to His will, rather than being mere perfunctory acts.

* [1 Samuel 15:22](/1_samuel/15-22 "1 Samuel 15:22 - Obedience is Better than Sacrifice"): "And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams."
* [Proverbs 21:27](/proverbs/21-27 "Proverbs 21:27 - The Sacrifice of the Wicked is Abomination"): "The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?"
* [John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth"): "God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ecclesiastes 5:1 remains profoundly relevant for believers today, calling us to a deeper, more authentic engagement with God. In an age where religious activity can often become routine or performative, this verse serves as a powerful corrective, urging us to cultivate a heart of reverence and attentiveness. Whether in corporate worship, personal devotion, or daily life, we are always in God's presence, and our approach should reflect this awesome reality. True worship is not merely about showing up or going through the motions; it is fundamentally about listening to God's voice, submitting to His will, and allowing His word to shape our lives. Our offerings—whether of time, talent, treasure, or praise—must flow from a sincere heart, free from pretense or ignorance. This verse challenges us to examine our motives, ensuring that our spiritual practices are driven by genuine love and devotion, rather than habit, obligation, or a desire for outward appearance. God desires our hearts more than our rituals, our obedience more than our offerings.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my posture, both physical and spiritual, reflect reverence when I approach God in worship or prayer?**
* **Am I more eager to speak or perform religious duties, or to quietly listen to what God might be speaking to me through His Word or Spirit?**
* **In what ways might I be offering a "sacrifice of fools," engaging in religious activities without true sincerity, understanding, or a right heart?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a more attentive and obedient heart in my daily walk with God?**

### FAQ

**What does "Keep thy foot" mean in Ecclesiastes 5:1?**

Answer: The phrase "Keep thy foot" (Hebrew: _sh'mor raglecha_) is an ancient idiom that means to be careful, cautious, or circumspect in one's conduct. When applied to going "to the house of God," it emphasizes the importance of approaching a sacred space with reverence, thoughtfulness, and a prepared heart. It's a warning against rushing in carelessly, thoughtlessly, or with a flippant attitude, urging instead a deliberate and respectful demeanor in the presence of the Divine. It implies a need for self-examination before engaging in worship.

**Who are the "fools" mentioned in this verse, and what is their "sacrifice"?**

Answer: In biblical wisdom literature, particularly Ecclesiastes and Proverbs, a "fool" (Hebrew: _kesil_) is not merely someone lacking intelligence, but rather a person who is morally and spiritually dull, lacking discernment, and often resistant to God's wisdom. Their "sacrifice" refers to religious offerings or acts of worship that are performed without sincerity, understanding, or a right heart. These are acts done out of habit, obligation, or even self-righteousness, but they lack genuine devotion and a desire to truly honor God. Such offerings are deemed an "abomination" because they are disconnected from a transformed heart and an obedient life, as seen in [Proverbs 15:8](/proverbs/15-8 "Proverbs 15:8 - The Sacrifice of the Wicked is an Abomination").

**How does Ecclesiastes 5:1 apply to Christian worship today, given that we no longer offer animal sacrifices?**

Answer: While the literal act of animal sacrifice is fulfilled in Christ, the principle of Ecclesiastes 5:1 remains profoundly relevant. It calls Christians to approach God in all forms of worship—whether corporate gatherings, personal prayer, Bible study, or service—with reverence and a heart ready to hear and obey. Our "sacrifices" today include our praise, our offerings, our time, and our very lives ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifices")). The verse warns against engaging in these spiritual acts superficially, without genuine faith, humility, or a desire to honor God. It reminds us that God values our sincere heart and obedient spirit far more than any outward religious performance, echoing Jesus' teaching on worshipping in spirit and truth ([John 4:24](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 5:1, with its call to reverence, attentive hearing, and genuine worship, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the perfect worshiper, who always kept His "foot" in perfect obedience, perfectly "ready to hear" and do the will of His Father ([John 5:30](/john/5-30 "John 5:30 - Jesus Does the Father's Will")). Unlike the "sacrifice of fools" offered by those who "consider not that they do evil," Christ offered Himself as the one perfect and sufficient sacrifice, holy and blameless, once for all ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). His sacrificial death on the cross definitively rendered all previous animal sacrifices obsolete, establishing a new covenant where access to God is no longer through ritualistic performance but through faith in His finished work ([Hebrews 9:11-14](/hebrews/9-11 "Hebrews 9:11-14 - Christ's Superior Sacrifice")). Furthermore, Jesus taught that true worship is not confined to a physical temple but is to be offered "in spirit and in truth" ([John 4:23-24](/john/4-23 "John 4:23-24 - True Worshipers")), perfectly embodying the very heart of Ecclesiastes 5:1's admonition. Through Christ, believers are now empowered by the Holy Spirit to approach God with confidence, sincerity, and a truly listening heart, offering spiritual sacrifices that are pleasing to Him ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Spiritual Sacrifices")).

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

James 1:19

¶ Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

Hebrews 12:28

Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:

Hebrews 12:29

For our God [is] a consuming fire.

Proverbs 15:8

¶ The sacrifice of the wicked [is] an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright [is] his delight.

1 Peter 2:1

¶ Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,

1 Peter 2:2

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

Isaiah 1:12

When ye come to appear before me, who hath required this at your hand, to tread my courts?