Ecclesiastes 5:17
All his days also he eateth in darkness, and he hath much sorrow and wrath with his sickness.
Ecclesiastes 5:17 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the speaker is describing a person who lives in darkness, both literally and figuratively. The phrase "eateth in darkness" can be interpreted as the person going through life without clear direction or understanding. This individual is experiencing much sorrow and wrath, which can be seen as the consequences of their actions or the hardships they are facing. The mention of sickness could be referring to physical illness or a metaphor for their troubled state of mind. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of living a life filled with darkness, negativity, and suffering. It highlights the importance of seeking light, positivity, and healing to overcome challenges and find peace.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of the verse "All his days also he eateth in darkness, and he hath much sorrow and wrath with his sickness,†one can draw upon various aspects of biblical teachings. The mention of eating in darkness could symbolize a state of spiritual darkness or separation from God, leading to a life filled with sorrow and wrath. This highlights the importance of being in the light of God's presence and following his ways to avoid falling into a life of despair and suffering. Additionally, the reference to sickness could represent not only physical ailments but also spiritual sickness caused by a separation from God. Thus, the verse underscores the consequences of living a life estranged from God's guidance and the importance of seeking His light and truth for a path of peace and healing.
Ecclesiastes 5:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
All his days also he eateth in darkness, and he is sore vexed, and hath sickness and wrath.
World English Bible
All his days he also eats in darkness, he is frustrated, and has sickness and wrath.
Douay-Rheims
This therefore hath seemed good to me, that a man should eat and drink, and enjoy the fruit of his labour, wherewith he hath laboured under the sun, all the days of his life, which God hath given him: and this is his portion.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Beholde then, what I haue seene good, that it is comely to eate, and to drinke, and to take pleasure in all his labour, wherein he traueileth vnder the sunne, the whole nomber of the dayes of his life, which God giueth him: for this is his portion.