Ecclesiastes 8:4

Where the word of a king [is, there is] power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?

Where the word {H1697} of a king {H4428} is, there is power {H7983}: and who may say {H559} unto him, What doest {H6213} thou?

After all, his word is final; who can challenge him, "Why are you doing that?"

For the king’s word is supreme, and who can say to him, “What are you doing?”

For the king’s word hath power; and who may say unto him, What doest thou?

Commentary

Ecclesiastes 8:4 highlights the absolute and unquestionable authority of an earthly king in the ancient world. The verse states, "Where the word of a king [is, there is] power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?" It vividly portrays the immense influence and command held by monarchs, whose decrees were final and beyond challenge.

Context

The book of Ecclesiastes, often attributed to King Solomon, explores the complexities and often perplexing realities of life "under the sun." In this chapter, the Preacher (Qoheleth) reflects on the wisdom of obeying the king, recognizing the practical dangers of defiance. In ancient Near Eastern societies, kings often held absolute power, acting as supreme rulers, judges, and military commanders. Their word was law, and their actions were rarely, if ever, subject to public scrutiny or challenge. This verse serves as a realistic observation of the prevailing political and social order of the time.

Key Themes

  • Absolute Authority: The primary message is the unassailable power of a king. His "word" (Hebrew: dabar), signifying a command or decree, carries immediate and irresistible "power" (Hebrew: shalton), meaning dominion or control.
  • Unquestionable Sovereignty: The rhetorical question, "who may say unto him, What doest thou?" underscores that no one has the right or ability to challenge the king's decisions or actions. To do so would be futile and dangerous.
  • Human Limitations and Wisdom: The verse implicitly teaches wisdom in recognizing the limits of human agency when faced with such earthly power. It's a pragmatic observation of life's realities, where one must navigate powerful rulers.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "word" here is dabar (דָּבָר), which means more than just a spoken utterance; it implies an authoritative command, a decree, or a matter of great importance. The term for "power" is shalton (שִׁלְטוֹן), emphasizing dominion, rule, and authority. The phrase "What doest thou?" (מַה־תַּעֲשֶׂה) is a direct, rhetorical challenge, highlighting the impossibility of questioning the monarch's actions without severe repercussions.

Connections and Application

While Ecclesiastes 8:4 describes the formidable power of an earthly king, it also sets the stage for understanding a higher, ultimate authority. The Bible frequently contrasts human power with the unquestionable dominion of God Himself. As Daniel 4:35 states regarding God, "none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?" This parallel suggests that even the greatest earthly rulers are ultimately subject to divine sovereignty.

For believers today, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting established earthly authorities, even while recognizing that all human power is finite and accountable to God. It encourages discernment and wisdom in navigating the world, understanding that true and ultimate power belongs to the Creator alone. This perspective provides comfort, knowing that even in the face of overwhelming human authority, there is a divine order that no one can challenge or overturn.

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Cross-References

  • Job 9:12 (5 votes)

    Behold, he taketh away, who can hinder him? who will say unto him, What doest thou?

  • Daniel 4:35 (4 votes)

    And all the inhabitants of the earth [are] reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and [among] the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?

  • Romans 13:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

  • Romans 13:4 (4 votes)

    For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to [execute] wrath upon him that doeth evil.

  • Romans 9:20 (3 votes)

    Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed [it], Why hast thou made me thus?

  • Proverbs 20:2 (3 votes)

    ¶ The fear of a king [is] as the roaring of a lion: [whoso] provoketh him to anger sinneth [against] his own soul.

  • Proverbs 19:12 (3 votes)

    ¶ The king's wrath [is] as the roaring of a lion; but his favour [is] as dew upon the grass.