JW Comments

In Ecclesiastes 8:1 I learn that wisdom not only gives us solutions but also makes us more pleasant to others, “it brightens their face and softens their stern appearance.” It teaches me that true wisdom is not just theoretical but is manifested in how we treat others, making our personality kinder and more approachable. This benefits us by motivating us to cultivate Jehovah’s wisdom, which is practical and reflected in kindness and patience.

In Ecclesiastes 8:2-4 I learn the importance of submission to authority, especially to rulers. It teaches me that we must obey the orders of the king or the government and not oppose them, since their power is great and God himself allows them to have it. This benefits us by reminding us of the biblical command to obey governments (Romans 13:1), as long as it does not contradict Jehovah’s laws. It helps us maintain a peaceful and respectful attitude in our dealings with authorities.

In Ecclesiastes 8:5 there is a very important gem: “Whoever obeys the command will come to no harm, and the wise heart will know the proper time and procedure.” It teaches me that obedience protects us and that wisdom gives us discernment. By obeying Jehovah’s commands, we avoid negative consequences. Also, a wise heart will know how and when to act, which is vital in this complicated world. This benefits us by reminding us that obedience is not a burden but a shield that protects us, and wisdom helps us navigate life successfully.

In Ecclesiastes 8:9 it teaches me that man’s domination over man has been to his own harm. Despite advances and technology, the human heart has not changed. Governments and people have oppressed one another, resulting in pain and suffering. This benefits us by helping us have a correct perspective of the world’s problems, recognizing that the only lasting solution to man’s wickedness is God’s Kingdom.

In Ecclesiastes 8:11-13 there is a gem of great comfort: because the sentence against a bad action is not executed quickly, people’s hearts become emboldened to do evil. It teaches me that Jehovah’s patience is not a sign that He does not care but an opportunity for people to repent. Although it sometimes seems that the wicked prosper, Solomon concludes that “it will not go well with the wicked.” This benefits us by helping us be patient and trust Jehovah’s justice, knowing that His judgment is inevitable and that, in the end, things will go well for those who fear Him.

In Ecclesiastes 8:14 I learn the painful reality that on earth sometimes the righteous are treated like the wicked and the wicked like the righteous. It teaches me that injustice is part of this system of things. This benefits us by helping us not get discouraged when we are treated unfairly for being Christians. It reminds us that our joy does not depend on circumstances but on our relationship with Jehovah, who sees the truth and will reward us.

In Ecclesiastes 8:17 there is a gem of great humility: humanity “cannot comprehend what happens under the sun.” It teaches me that we cannot fully understand Jehovah’s purposes and actions. Even if we strive, His wisdom is so great that there will always be a mystery. This benefits us by reminding us that faith is fundamental in our life, because we do not need to understand everything to trust that Jehovah is just and will do what is right at the proper time.