Ecclesiastes 7:4

The Value of Wisdom · Ecclesiastes 7:1–14
Read Ecclesiastes 7

Translations

Modern
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure.
Traditional
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
Literal
The heart of the wise is in a house of mourning, and the heart of fools is in a house of gladness.
Latin
Cor sapientium ubi tristitia est, et cor stultorum ubi lætitia.

Original

Hebrew
English
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure.

Notes

good for the heart: Thinking clearly about death helps us understand the seriousness of God's curse on sin and shows us the importance of enjoying life wisely (Ecclesiastes 9:10).

These proverbs are like the sayings in the Book of Proverbs.

It is unwise to engage in carefree fun when wisdom calls for serious reflection on death (see also Ecclesiastes 2:12–13).

God's control over everything is serious, but it gives us hope.

Theme notes and profiles

Enjoying God’s Gifts Wisdom

Glossary

Book of Ecclesiastes

Topics

Afflictions and Adversities: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Amusements and Worldly Pleasures: Indulgence in Is: A Proof of Folly Bereavement: Resignation In Worldly Amusements and Pleasures: Indulgence in a Proof of Folly