DailyBible

Ecclesiastes 7:16 Meaning

Be not righteous over much; neither make thyself over wise: why shouldest thou destroy thyself?

Context Explained

14In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity consider: God also hath set the one over against the other, to the end that man should find nothing after him.

15All things have I seen in the days of my vanity: there is a just man that perisheth in his righteousness, and there is a wicked man that prolongeth his life in his wickedness.

16Be not righteous over much; neither make thyself over wise: why shouldest thou destroy thyself?

17Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time?

18It is good that thou shouldest take hold of this; yea, also from this withdraw not thine hand: for he that feareth God shall come forth of them all.

Key Themes

humilitywisdomself-awareness

Related Cross References

  • Proverbs 26:12

    This verse warns against overestimating one's wisdom, similar to the caution in Ecclesiastes 7:16.

Source: Ecclesiastes 7:16