Old Testament

Ecclesiastes 11:2

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Give a portion to seven, and also to eight, for you do not know what evil shall be upon the earth.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth.

What Ecclesiastes 11:2 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse encourages us to be generous and share our resources with others. By giving to multiple people or causes, we spread our support and kindness. Life is unpredictable, and we never know when challenges or hardships may arise. By being proactive in our generosity, we prepare ourselves and others for uncertain times. It’s a reminder that sharing what we have can create a safety net for ourselves and our community. When we give, we not only help others but also build connections that can be vital in tough situations. This approach fosters a spirit of collaboration and mutual support, which can be incredibly valuable when facing difficulties. Ultimately, this verse teaches us that generosity is not just about the act of giving; it’s about creating a resilient community that can withstand life's uncertainties together. Embracing this mindset can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life, where we uplift one another in times of need and joy alike. Our actions today can have lasting impacts on the future.

How to apply Ecclesiastes 11:2 to your life

Consider how you can share your resources with others today. Whether it's time, money, or skills, think about ways to support those around you. By doing so, you not only help others but also create a network of support for yourself in the future. Remember, small acts of kindness can make a big difference in uncertain times. Be generous and open-hearted in your daily life, and watch how it enriches your community and relationships.

Curated for this public verse page. Ecclesiastes Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Ecclesiastes 11:2

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Ecclesiastes 11:2

At a Glance — the Book of Ecclesiastes

Author
Traditionally attributed to Solomon
Written
Around 935 BC
Genre
Wisdom literature
Original Audience
Those searching for life's meaning

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Ecclesiastes 11:2 mean?

Ecclesiastes 11:2 encourages generosity by advising us to share our resources with multiple people or causes. It highlights the unpredictability of life and suggests that being proactive in giving can help prepare ourselves and others for unforeseen challenges.

What is the meaning of generosity in Ecclesiastes 11:2?

In Ecclesiastes 11:2, generosity is about sharing what we have with others, emphasizing the importance of supporting multiple people or causes. This act of giving fosters community connections and provides a safety net during uncertain times.

How can I apply Ecclesiastes 11:2 in my life?

You can apply Ecclesiastes 11:2 by looking for opportunities to share your time, money, or skills with those around you. Small acts of kindness can create a supportive network that benefits both you and your community during tough times.

What does 'give a portion to seven, and also to eight' mean?

The phrase 'give a portion to seven, and also to eight' suggests that we should be generous to many people or causes. It implies that spreading our support can help us and others be better prepared for life's uncertainties.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.