Ecclesiastes 7:8

Modern

The end of a matter is better than the beginning, and a patient spirit is better than a proud one.

Traditional

Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.

Literal

Better the end of a thing than its beginning; better one long of spirit than one high of spirit.

Latin

Melior est finis orationis quam principium. Melior est patiens arrogante.

Hebrew

English

The end of a matter is better than the beginning, and a patient spirit is better than a proud one.

It is better to finish a project with patience than to start it with boastful words.

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

Theme notes and profiles

Hebrews 10:36
You need to persevere, so that after you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.
Psalm 126:5–6
Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy.
Proverbs 14:29
A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man promotes folly.
1 Peter 1:13
Therefore prepare your minds for action. Be sober-minded. Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
James 5:11
See how blessed we consider those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen the outcome from the Lord. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
James 5:8
You, too, be patient and strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near.
Proverbs 15:18
A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger calms dispute.
Luke 21:19
By your patient endurance you will gain your souls.
Galatians 5:22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Proverbs 16:32
He who is slow to anger is better than a warrior, and he who controls his temper is greater than one who captures a city.
Luke 16:25
But Abraham answered, ‘Child, remember that during your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things. But now he is comforted here, while you are in agony.
Romans 2:7–8
To those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life.