Ecclesiastes 11:3

If the clouds be full of rain, they empty [themselves] upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.

If the clouds {H5645} be full {H4390} of rain {H1653}, they empty {H7324} themselves upon the earth {H776}: and if the tree {H6086} fall {H5307} toward the south {H1864}, or toward the north {H6828}, in the place {H4725} where the tree {H6086} falleth {H5307}, there it shall be {H1933}.

If the clouds are full of rain, they empty themselves on the earth. Whether a tree falls toward the north or the south, the place where the tree falls is where it stays.

If the clouds are full, they will pour out rain upon the earth; whether a tree falls to the south or to the north, in the place where it falls, there it will lie.

If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth; and if a tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there shall it be.

Commentary

Ecclesiastes 11:3 delivers a profound message about the inevitability of natural processes and the finality of certain life events. It uses two vivid metaphors to convey the certainty of outcomes once conditions are met or actions are taken.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Ecclesiastes (chapters 11-12) where "the Preacher" (Koheleth), traditionally identified as King Solomon, encourages readers to live wisely and diligently in the face of life's uncertainties. Having explored the futility of many human pursuits "under the sun," the book pivots to practical advice: embrace life, take calculated risks, and enjoy God's gifts while acknowledging the brevity of existence. Verse 3 specifically serves as a reminder that some things are beyond human control and have fixed outcomes, urging a proactive and responsible approach to life rather than procrastination or fatalism. It follows advice about casting bread upon the waters and diversifying one's endeavors (Ecclesiastes 11:1-2).

Key Themes

  • Inevitability and Certainty: Just as clouds full of rain must empty, certain events or consequences in life are unavoidable once the conditions are met. This highlights a natural order that operates independently of human will.
  • Finality of Action and Outcome: The image of the fallen tree powerfully illustrates that once a significant event occurs, or a life's course is set (especially referring to death), its position is permanent and irreversible. There is no changing where the tree landed.
  • Consequences of Life's Trajectory: The verse implicitly warns that the path one takes in life, and the ultimate end of that path, will have lasting and unchangeable implications. It underscores the importance of making wise choices while there is still time.
  • Divine Order: While not explicitly stated, the natural laws described (rain, gravity) point to an underlying divine design and sovereignty that governs the world.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrasing for "empty themselves" suggests a natural, inherent compulsion for the clouds to release their rain once saturated. There is no external force compelling them, but an internal necessity. Similarly, the simple declaration "there it shall be" regarding the fallen tree emphasizes the absolute and unalterable nature of its final state. The imagery is straightforward, relying on universal natural phenomena to convey profound truths about life and death's fixed points.

Practical Application

Ecclesiastes 11:3 challenges us to live with an awareness of life's certainties and its ultimate end. It encourages:

  • Proactive Living: Don't delay important decisions or actions, as some opportunities or conditions may pass, leading to irreversible outcomes. Just as a farmer must sow before the rain, we must act in due season.
  • Acceptance of Finality: Recognize that some things, like death or the consequences of past major decisions, are fixed. This can help in processing grief or moving forward from unchangeable circumstances. The appointed time of death for all people is a stark reality this verse touches upon.
  • Responsible Stewardship: Live wisely and make the most of the present moment, understanding that our actions today determine our "falling place" tomorrow, both metaphorically and literally. This aligns with the broader call in Ecclesiastes to fear God and keep His commandments.

This verse serves as a sober reminder that while we cannot control everything, we must wisely navigate the things we can, knowing that certain natural and spiritual laws will always hold true.

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 65:9 (9 votes)

    Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it: thou greatly enrichest it with the river of God, [which] is full of water: thou preparest them corn, when thou hast so provided for it.

  • Psalms 65:13 (9 votes)

    The pastures are clothed with flocks; the valleys also are covered over with corn; they shout for joy, they also sing.

  • Isaiah 55:10 (9 votes)

    For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:

  • Isaiah 55:11 (9 votes)

    So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper [in the thing] whereto I sent it.

  • 1 John 3:17 (9 votes)

    But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels [of compassion] from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

  • Luke 13:7 (8 votes)

    Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?

  • 1 Kings 18:45 (7 votes)

    And it came to pass in the mean while, that the heaven was black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain. And Ahab rode, and went to Jezreel.