Old Testament
Ecclesiastes 5:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Do not let your mouth cause your flesh to sin, and do not say before the angel that it was an error. Why should God be angry at your voice and destroy the work of your hands?
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Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it was an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?
What Ecclesiastes 5:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse warns us about the power of our words and the consequences they can have. It suggests that we should be careful not to speak thoughtlessly, as our words can lead us to act against our better judgment. When we make promises or commitments, we should take them seriously and not dismiss them as mistakes later. The mention of 'the angel' implies that there are spiritual beings who take note of our words and actions. If we treat our promises lightly, it can provoke anger from God, which may lead to negative outcomes in our lives. Essentially, this verse encourages us to be mindful of what we say and to honor our commitments. Our words have weight, and they can either build up or tear down the work we do. Therefore, we should strive to speak with intention and integrity, recognizing that our voices can shape our reality and influence our relationship with God and others. By being responsible with our speech, we can avoid unnecessary trouble and maintain the blessings in our lives.
How to apply Ecclesiastes 5:6 to your life
To apply this verse, take a moment to reflect on your recent conversations. Are there promises you've made that you need to honor? Practice being intentional with your words, ensuring they align with your values and commitments. This will help you build trust and avoid misunderstandings in your relationships. Remember, your words matter more than you think, so choose them wisely. “Be mindful of what you say.” “Honor your commitments.”
Curated for this public verse page. Ecclesiastes Summary
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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 5:6 mean?
Ecclesiastes 5:6 warns us about the impact of our words and the importance of honoring our commitments. It emphasizes that careless speech can lead to sin and provoke God's anger, affecting the outcomes of our actions.
What is the meaning of 'do not let your mouth cause your flesh to sin' in Ecclesiastes 5:6?
This phrase highlights the idea that our words can lead us to make poor choices or act against our better judgment. It serves as a reminder to speak thoughtfully and responsibly.
What is the significance of 'the angel' in Ecclesiastes 5:6?
The mention of 'the angel' suggests that there are spiritual beings who observe our words and actions. This implies a level of accountability for what we say and the commitments we make.
How can I apply Ecclesiastes 5:6 in my daily life?
To apply this verse, reflect on your recent promises and ensure you honor them. Be intentional with your speech, aligning your words with your values to build trust and avoid misunderstandings.
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