Ecclesiastes 12:13

Translations

Modern

When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.

Traditional

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

Literal

The conclusion of the whole of matter has been heard. You shall fear God and keep His commandments—for this is is the whole of the man.

Latin

Finem loquendi pariter omnes audiamus. Deum time, et mandata ejus observa: hoc est enim omnis homo,

Original

Hebrew

English

When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.

Notes

Ecclesiastes 12:13–14

The editor concludes from studying the Teacher's work that we should fear God (see Ecclesiastes 3:14; 5:7; 7:18; 8:12–13). This means we must obey his commands, because everything we do will face judgment (see Ecclesiastes 11:9; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Hebrews 9:27).

Ecclesiastes 12:9–14

This final note by the editor (see “Author and Recipients” in the Book Introduction) shows respect for the Teacher. It urges readers to apply the Teacher's lessons and shares the editor’s conclusion from studying the Teacher (Ecclesiastes 12:13–14).

Theme notes and profiles

Fear of the Lord Remember Him Solomon’s Wisdom The Creator-King

Related verses

Deuteronomy 10:12
And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul,
Micah 6:8
He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?
Deuteronomy 6:2
…so that you and your children and grandchildren may fear the LORD your God all the days of your lives by keeping all His statutes and commandments that I give you, and so that your days may be prolonged.
Psalm 111:10–112:1
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts gain rich understanding. His praise endures forever!
Psalm 145:19
He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him; He hears their cry and saves them.
Job 28:28
And He said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’”
Luke 1:50
His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation.
Ecclesiastes 8:12
Although a sinner does evil a hundred times and still lives long, yet I also know that it will go well with those who fear God, who are reverent in His presence.
Proverbs 19:23
The fear of the LORD leads to life, that one may rest content, without visitation from harm.
Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
Psalm 115:13–15
He will bless those who fear the LORD—small and great alike.
Psalm 147:11
The LORD is pleased with those who fear Him, who hope in His loving devotion.

Glossary

Book of Ecclesiastes Wisdom Literature

Topics

Christian Conduct: Fearing God Fear of God: Reverence Fear of the Lord Godly Fear: Commanded Investigation: General Scriptures Concerning Making Choices Man: The Whole Duty of Obedience to God: Includes: Keeping his Commandments Obedience: Enjoined Our Purpose Parties Purpose Purpose in Life Purpose of Man The Law of God: It is Man's Duty to Keep The Meaning of Life

Ecclesiastes 12:13

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