Let not your mouth lead you[a] into sin, and do not say before (A)the messenger[b] that it was (B)a mistake. Why should God be angry at your voice and destroy the work of your hands? For when dreams increase and words grow many, there is vanity;[c] but[d] (C)God is the one you must fear.

The Vanity of Wealth and Honor

(D)If you see in a province the oppression of the poor and the violation of justice and righteousness, (E)do not be amazed at the matter, (F)for the high official is watched by a higher, and there are yet higher ones over them.

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Footnotes

  1. Ecclesiastes 5:6 Hebrew your flesh
  2. Ecclesiastes 5:6 Or angel
  3. Ecclesiastes 5:7 The Hebrew term hebel can refer to a “vapor” or “mere breath”; also verse 10 (see note on 1:2)
  4. Ecclesiastes 5:7 Or For when dreams and vanities increase, words also grow many; but

Do not let your mouth lead you into sin. And do not protest to the temple messenger, “My vow was a mistake.” Why should God be angry at what you say and destroy the work of your hands? Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore fear God.(A)

Riches Are Meaningless

If you see the poor oppressed(B) in a district, and justice and rights denied, do not be surprised at such things; for one official is eyed by a higher one, and over them both are others higher still.

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