Old Testament
Ecclesiastes 3:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor — it is the gift of God.
Compare translations
And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.
What Ecclesiastes 3:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the importance of enjoying the fruits of our hard work. It reminds us that life is not just about toil and struggle; it’s also about savoring the simple pleasures that come from our efforts. Eating and drinking are not just daily routines; they are opportunities to appreciate what we have. The verse emphasizes that these joys are gifts from God, encouraging us to recognize and celebrate them. It invites us to take a moment to reflect on our lives and find happiness in the little things. By acknowledging that enjoyment is a divine gift, we can cultivate gratitude and a deeper appreciation for our daily experiences. Ultimately, this perspective can transform our outlook on life, making us more aware of the blessings that surround us. Embracing this mindset can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful existence, where we find meaning in both our labor and our leisure time. Life is a balance of work and enjoyment, and both are essential for a rich, meaningful life.
How to apply Ecclesiastes 3:13 to your life
Take time each day to appreciate the small joys in your life, like a good meal or a moment of relaxation. Reflect on your work and how it contributes to your happiness. Make it a habit to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, as gifts that enrich your life. This practice can enhance your overall well-being and perspective on life’s journey. Remember, enjoyment is a vital part of living fully and gratefully each day.
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.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. 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.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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 PlansAsk AI about Ecclesiastes 3:13
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 3:13
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 3:13 mean?
Ecclesiastes 3:13 emphasizes the importance of enjoying the fruits of our labor. It suggests that life should not only be about hard work but also about appreciating the simple pleasures that come from our efforts, which are seen as gifts from God.
What is the meaning of 'enjoy the good of all his labor' in Ecclesiastes 3:13?
The phrase 'enjoy the good of all his labor' means that individuals should take time to appreciate and find joy in the results of their hard work. It highlights the idea that enjoyment and gratitude for what we achieve are essential parts of life.
How can I apply Ecclesiastes 3:13 to my life?
You can apply Ecclesiastes 3:13 by taking time each day to appreciate the small joys in life, like a good meal or a moment of relaxation. Reflect on your work and celebrate your achievements, recognizing them as gifts that enhance your overall well-being.
What themes are present in Ecclesiastes 3:13?
The themes present in Ecclesiastes 3:13 include enjoyment, gratitude, the gifts of life, the value of work, and the importance of balance between labor and leisure.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.