Ecclesiastes 10:9 (KJV)

What does Ecclesiastes 10:9 mean?

Ecclesiastes 10:9 warns that anyone who removes stones or splits wood is likely to get hurt in the process. The verse uses these examples to show that even ordinary work carries risks, and people should be aware of the dangers in everyday tasks.

The speaker is traditionally understood to be Solomon, sharing practical wisdom with his audience about the realities of life. In the context of Ecclesiastes, this verse fits with the book’s theme that life is unpredictable and full of both effort and risk, even in simple, honest labor.

The Hebrew behind Ecclesiastes 10:9

• "removeth" (נָסַע, nasa‘): This word means to pull up, remove, or carry away. It suggests someone actively working, not just passively encountering stones.
• "stones" (אֶבֶן, ’even): The word refers to literal stones, likely in the context of construction or clearing land, which could be a hazardous job.
• "hurt" (עָצַב, ‘atsav): This term means to be injured or experience pain. The verse highlights that harm is a real possibility in manual labor.
• "cleaveth" (בָּקַע, baqa‘): This word means to split or cut apart, especially wood. It points to the physical action and the inherent danger in such tasks.
• "wood" (עֵץ, ‘ets): This is the common word for wood or tree, again pointing to ordinary, necessary work.
• "endangered" (סָכַן, sakan): This word means to be at risk or in danger. It emphasizes that risk is part of even the most basic activities.

Why Ecclesiastes 10:9 matters

• Ecclesiastes 10:9 clears up the idea that only foolish or reckless actions are dangerous; it shows that even routine, necessary work can lead to harm.
• The verse emphasizes the unpredictability of life, a major theme in Ecclesiastes, reminding readers that no task is entirely safe or under human control.
• By connecting to the surrounding verses, Ecclesiastes 10:9 encourages humility and caution, suggesting that wisdom includes recognizing and respecting everyday risks.