Old Testament
Ecclesiastes 7:26
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And I find more bitter than death the woman whose heart is snares and nets, and whose hands are bands. Whoever pleases God shall escape from her, but the sinner shall be taken by her.
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And I find more bitter than death the woman, whose heart is snares and nets, and her hands as bands: whoso pleaseth God shall escape from her; but the sinner shall be taken by her.
What Ecclesiastes 7:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the writer expresses a deep concern about a certain type of woman whose intentions are harmful. Her heart is described as a trap, filled with snares and nets, suggesting that she can ensnare those who are not careful. The imagery of her hands as bands indicates that she can bind or control those who fall into her influence. The writer warns that those who seek to please God will find a way to avoid her traps, while those who live in sin will inevitably be caught by her. This reflects a broader theme of the dangers of temptation and the importance of staying true to one's values. The verse serves as a reminder to be vigilant about the influences we allow into our lives. It highlights the contrast between the wise, who seek God, and the foolish, who ignore His guidance. Ultimately, it encourages us to choose our paths wisely, as the consequences of our choices can be severe and life-altering, much like the bitterness of death itself.
How to apply Ecclesiastes 7:26 to your life
To avoid harmful influences in your life, focus on building a strong relationship with God. Seek wisdom in your decisions and be aware of the people and situations that may lead you astray. Surround yourself with positive influences that encourage your growth and faith. Remember, your choices shape your future.
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 7:26 mean?
Ecclesiastes 7:26 warns about a woman whose heart is like a trap, suggesting that she can ensnare those who are not careful. It highlights the importance of seeking God to avoid such harmful influences.
What is the meaning of snares and nets in Ecclesiastes 7:26?
In Ecclesiastes 7:26, snares and nets symbolize the deceptive and harmful intentions of a certain woman, indicating that she can entrap those who are not vigilant.
How can I apply Ecclesiastes 7:26 to my life?
To apply Ecclesiastes 7:26, focus on strengthening your relationship with God and being mindful of the influences around you. Surround yourself with positive people and make choices that align with your values.
Who is the woman mentioned in Ecclesiastes 7:26?
The woman in Ecclesiastes 7:26 represents a metaphor for temptation and harmful influences that can lead people away from righteousness and into sin.
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