1. mitte panem tuum super transeuntes aquas quia post multa tempora invenies illum
2. da partem septem necnon et octo quia ignoras quid futurum sit mali super terram
3. si repletæ fuerint nubes imbrem super terram effundent si ceciderit lignum ad austrum aut ad aquilonem in quocumque loco ceciderit ibi erit
4. qui observat ventum non seminat et qui considerat nubes numquam metet
5. quomodo ignoras quæ sit via spiritus et qua ratione conpingantur ossa in ventre prægnatis sic nescis opera Dei qui fabricator est omnium
6. mane semina sementem tuam et vespere ne cesset manus tua quia nescis quid magis oriatur hoc an illud et si utrumque simul melius erit
7. dulce lumen et delectabile est oculis videre solem
8. si annis multis vixerit homo et in omnibus his lætatus fuerit meminisse debet tenebrosi temporis et dierum multorum qui cum venerint vanitatis arguentur præterita
9. lætare ergo juvenis in adulescentia tua et in bono sit cor tuum in diebus juventutis tuæ et ambula in viis cordis tui et in intuitu oculorum tuorum et scito quod pro omnibus his adducet te Deus in judicium
10. aufer iram a corde tuo et amove malitiam a carne tua adulescentia enim et voluptas vana sunt
Footnotes:
11:1-2 - The exhortation to cast one's bread upon the waters illustrates the principle of generosity and action, showing that we should seize opportunities to do good, even if we do not know the outcome (see also Luke 6:38 and Galatians 6:9).
11:3-4 - Uncertainty about the future should encourage us to work diligently. The author reminds us to act with wisdom and faith, even without guarantees, and not be paralyzed by fear (see also Proverbs 16:3 and Matthew 25:14-30).
11:5-6 - The comparison of creation with human inability to understand the process of life invites us to trust in God's wisdom. The importance of acting while one has the opportunity is emphasized (see also Isaiah 55:8-9 and Ephesians 5:15-16).
11:7-8 - Light is sweet, and life should be appreciated, even amidst difficulties. Appreciating life despite its uncertainties reminds us of the need for gratitude and joy in each day (see also Psalm 118:24 and Philippians 4:4).
11:9-10 - The exhortation to enjoy youth and the warning about future responsibilities highlight the need to live fully but wisely. This reminds us that our choices have lasting consequences (see also Ecclesiastes 12:1 and 1 Timothy 4:12).
Verses related to Liber Ecclesiastes, 11:
Ecclesiastes chapter 11 encourages boldness and prudence. How to balance risk and caution in life? This encouraging text exhorts us to be generous, enterprising, and enjoy our youth, always mindful of divine judgment. The chapter addresses topics such as the uncertainty of the future, the importance of diversifying efforts and the joy of living. Ecclesiastes 11 inspires us to live fully, trusting in God's providence. Reflect with us on five biblical passages that resonate with the wise exhortations of this motivating chapter.
2 Corinthians 9:6: "Remember: he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully." - This passage echoes the advice in Ecclesiastes 11:1-2 about being generous and diversifying investments.
Galatians 6:9: "And let us not get tired of doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not lose heart." - This verse reflects the theme of Ecclesiastes 11:6 about perseverance in work.
Psalms 90:12: "Teach us to number our days so that our hearts may gain wisdom." - This psalm aligns with the advice in Ecclesiastes 11:9-10 about enjoying youth but remembering judgment.
Matthew 6:34: "Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. It is enough for each day to have its own evil." - This teaching of Jesus reflects the theme of Ecclesiastes 11:4-5 about the uncertainty of the future.
1 Timothy 4:12: "Let no one despise you because you are young, but be an example to the faithful in word, behavior, love, faith and purity." - This exhortation from Paul complements the advice of Ecclesiastes 11:9-10 regarding youth.
FAQ:
What does “cast your bread upon the waters” mean in Ecclesiastes 11?
It means investing without fear, because in time the fruits will come. Generosity and effort are rewarded. (Ecclesiastes 11:1)
Why is it important to diversify our investments and efforts?
Because we don't know the future. Having multiple sources of income or opportunities reduces risk and increases the chances of success. (Ecclesiastes 11:2)
How does Ecclesiastes 11 teach about enjoying youth responsibly?
He encourages young people to rejoice, but reminds them that God will hold them accountable for their choices. Pleasure must be balanced with the fear of God. (Ecclesiastes 11:9)
What does “he who observes the wind will not sow” mean?
It means that those who wait for perfect conditions will never act. It is necessary to work and trust, even without guarantees. (Ecclesiastes 11:4)
Why is life described as brief and fleeting?
For youth and pleasures are fleeting. We must live wisely before old age approaches. (Ecclesiastes 11:10)
