Ecclesiastes 8:2-6
New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
2 Keep[a] the king’s command, and because of your sacred oath(A) 3 do not be terrified; go from his presence; do not delay when the matter is unpleasant, for he does whatever he pleases. 4 For the word of the king is powerful, and who can say to him, “What are you doing?”(B) 5 Whoever obeys a command will meet no harm, and the wise mind will know the time and way. 6 For every matter has its time and way, although the troubles of mortals lie heavy upon them.(C)
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- 8.2 Heb I keep
Ecclesiastes 8:2-6
International Standard Version
The Wisdom of Pleasing Leaders
2 I advise[a] doing what the king says, especially regarding an oath to God. 3 Don’t be in a hurry to leave him, and don’t persist in evil, for he does whatever he pleases. 4 Since a king’s command is powerful, who is able to challenge him, asking, “What are you doing?”
5 Whoever obeys his commands will not experience harm, and the wise in heart will discern both the appropriate time and response.[b] 6 Indeed, there is an appropriate time and a response[c] for every circumstance, since human misery weighs heavily upon him.
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- Ecclesiastes 8:2 The Heb. lacks advise
- Ecclesiastes 8:5 Lit. judgment
- Ecclesiastes 8:6 Lit. judgment
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