11 The (A)words of the wise are like [a](B)goads, and masters of these collections are like driven (C)nails; they are given by one Shepherd. 12 But beyond this, my son, be warned: the [b]writing of (D)many books is endless, and excessive (E)study is [c]wearying to the body.

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Footnotes

  1. Ecclesiastes 12:11 I.e., spiked sticks for driving cattle
  2. Ecclesiastes 12:12 Lit making
  3. Ecclesiastes 12:12 Lit weariness

11 The words of the wise are like cattle prods—painful but helpful. Their collected sayings are like a nail-studded stick with which a shepherd[a] drives the sheep.

12 But, my child,[b] let me give you some further advice: Be careful, for writing books is endless, and much study wears you out.

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Footnotes

  1. 12:11 Or one shepherd.
  2. 12:12 Hebrew my son.