Old Testament

Ecclesiastes 5:2

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

When you approach God, be careful with your words.

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

Do not be rash with your mouth, and do not let your heart be hasty to say anything before God. For God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.

KJVKing James Version

Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

When you approach God, be careful with your words. It’s easy to speak quickly and say things you might not mean, especially in prayer or worship. Remember, God is all-powerful and wise, while we are just human beings living on earth. This perspective should make us think before we speak. Instead of filling the air with many words, we should focus on being sincere and thoughtful. Quality matters more than quantity when it comes to our communication with God. Take a moment to reflect on what you truly want to express. This way, your words can carry more weight and meaning, creating a deeper connection with the divine. In essence, let your heart guide your speech, but do so with care and reverence, knowing who you are speaking to and where you stand in the grand scheme of things. Less can often be more, especially in our conversations with God, where silence can also be a powerful form of communication. Choose your words wisely and let them reflect your true intentions.

How to apply Ecclesiastes 5:2 to your life

Before you pray or speak about important matters, take a moment to think. Consider what you really want to say and how it reflects your heart. Speak with intention and clarity, allowing your words to be meaningful and impactful. Remember, God values your sincerity over the number of words you use. Let your heart guide you in your conversations with Him, keeping them genuine and respectful.

Curated for this public verse page. Ecclesiastes Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Ecclesiastes 5:2 mean?

Ecclesiastes 5:2 advises us to be careful with our words when approaching God. It emphasizes the importance of thoughtful communication, reminding us that God is powerful and wise, while we are mere humans.

What is the meaning of 'let your words be few' in Ecclesiastes 5:2?

'Let your words be few' suggests that in our conversations with God, quality is more important than quantity. It encourages us to speak sincerely and thoughtfully rather than filling our prayers with unnecessary words.

How can I apply Ecclesiastes 5:2 in my prayer life?

To apply Ecclesiastes 5:2 in your prayer life, take time to think before you pray. Focus on what truly matters to you and express it clearly, allowing your words to reflect your genuine feelings.

Why does Ecclesiastes 5:2 emphasize being careful with words?

Ecclesiastes 5:2 emphasizes being careful with words because our speech can carry significant weight in our relationship with God. It reminds us to approach Him with reverence and to ensure our words are meaningful.

The Book of Ecclesiastes
Book Summary

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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