Old Testament
Ecclesiastes 10:2
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the difference between wise and foolish people based on where their hearts are metaphorically positioned.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Solomon
- Written
- Around 935 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Those searching for life's meaning
A wise person's heart is at his right hand, but a fool's heart is at his left.
A wise man’s heart is at his right hand; but a fool’s heart at his left.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the difference between wise and foolish people based on where their hearts are metaphorically positioned. A wise person's heart, symbolizing their thoughts and decisions, is at their right hand, indicating strength and good judgment. In contrast, a fool's heart is at their left, suggesting poor choices and a lack of insight. The right hand is often associated with favor and skill, while the left can symbolize weakness or folly. This imagery encourages us to reflect on our own decision-making processes. Are we guided by wisdom, or do we often find ourselves making foolish choices? The heart represents our core values and motivations, so it’s essential to align them with wisdom. By doing so, we can navigate life’s challenges more effectively and make choices that lead to fulfillment and success. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder to seek wisdom in our hearts and actions, ensuring that we are not led astray by foolishness or impulsive decisions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ecclesiastes 10:2 to your life
To apply this verse, take a moment to evaluate your recent decisions. Are they rooted in wisdom or impulsiveness? Strive to make choices that reflect thoughtful consideration and align with your values. Surround yourself with wise influences to guide your heart in the right direction. This can lead to a more fulfilling life experience and better outcomes in your endeavors.
Curated for this public verse page. Ecclesiastes Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ecclesiastes 10:2 mean?
Ecclesiastes 10:2 contrasts the hearts of wise and foolish people, indicating that a wise person's heart is aligned with good judgment and strength, while a fool's heart leads to poor choices and folly.
What is the significance of the right and left hands in Ecclesiastes 10:2?
In this verse, the right hand symbolizes strength, favor, and skill, while the left hand represents weakness and folly, illustrating the differing paths of wise and foolish individuals.
How can I apply Ecclesiastes 10:2 to my life?
To apply this verse, assess your recent decisions for wisdom versus impulsiveness, and strive to make choices that reflect thoughtful consideration and align with your core values.
What does the heart represent in Ecclesiastes 10:2?
In Ecclesiastes 10:2, the heart represents a person's core values, motivations, and decision-making processes, emphasizing the importance of aligning them with wisdom.

The Book of Ecclesiastes
Ecclesiastes 1: All Is Vanity
The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem, begin with the declaration that all is vanity. He says that what a person gains from all labor under the sun is unclear, because generations come and go while the earth remains. The sun rises and sets and returns to its place. The wind moves in circuits. Rivers run into the sea, yet the sea is not full, and the rivers return again. He observes that all things are full of weariness; the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.
Unlock the full Ecclesiastes summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Ecclesiastes — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 12 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Ecclesiastes summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.