Old Testament
Ecclesiastes 3:16
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, the writer observes a troubling reality: even in places meant for justice, like courts and governing bodies, wrongdoing can be found.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Solomon
- Written
- Around 935 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Those searching for life's meaning
And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that wickedness was there; and the place of righteousness, that iniquity was there.
And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that wickedness was there; and the place of righteousness, that iniquity was there.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the writer observes a troubling reality: even in places meant for justice, like courts and governing bodies, wrongdoing can be found. It’s disheartening to see that where we expect fairness, we often encounter corruption. Similarly, in places that should embody goodness, like communities or churches, we can find hypocrisy and wrongdoing. This duality highlights a significant truth about human nature and society. It reminds us that no institution is immune to flaws. The writer's observations challenge us to reflect on our own lives and the systems we engage with. We must recognize that while we seek justice and righteousness, we may also encounter the opposite. This awareness can lead us to strive for integrity in our own actions and to advocate for true justice in our communities. Ultimately, it’s a call to be vigilant and proactive in promoting goodness, even when faced with the reality of wickedness around us. We are encouraged to seek out and support places and people who genuinely embody righteousness.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ecclesiastes 3:16 to your life
When you notice injustice or wrongdoing in your surroundings, don’t turn a blind eye. Instead, take action by speaking up or supporting those who strive for fairness. Reflect on your own actions and ensure they align with your values. Be a force for good in your community, promoting integrity and righteousness wherever you can. Your efforts can inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the world.
Curated for this public verse page. Ecclesiastes Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ecclesiastes 3:16 mean?
Ecclesiastes 3:16 highlights the troubling reality that even in places meant for justice, like courts, there can be wickedness. It points out that institutions we expect to be fair can also harbor corruption and hypocrisy.
What is the meaning of wickedness in Ecclesiastes 3:16?
In Ecclesiastes 3:16, wickedness refers to the wrongdoing and corruption found in places of judgment. This suggests that even systems designed to uphold justice can be tainted by immoral actions.
How does Ecclesiastes 3:16 relate to human nature?
Ecclesiastes 3:16 reflects the duality of human nature, showing that people can act unjustly even in roles meant to uphold righteousness. It emphasizes the need for vigilance against hypocrisy in ourselves and others.
What lessons can we learn from Ecclesiastes 3:16?
From Ecclesiastes 3:16, we learn to be aware of the imperfections in systems of justice and to strive for integrity in our own lives. It encourages us to actively promote fairness and goodness in our communities.

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.
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