Ecclesiastes 12:11

11 The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one shepherd.[a]

Ecclesiastes 12:11 in Other Translations

KJV
11 The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.
ESV
11 The words of the wise are like goads, and like nails firmly fixed are the collected sayings; they are given by one Shepherd.
NLT
11 The words of the wise are like cattle prods—painful but helpful. Their collected sayings are like a nail-studded stick with which a shepherd drives the sheep.
MSG
11 The words of the wise prod us to live well. They're like nails hammered home, holding life together. They are given by God, the one Shepherd.
CSB
11 The sayings of the wise are like goads, and those from masters of collections are like firmly embedded nails. The sayings are given by one Shepherd.

Ecclesiastes 12:11 In-Context

9 Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also imparted knowledge to the people. He pondered and searched out and set in order many proverbs.
10 The Teacher searched to find just the right words, and what he wrote was upright and true.
11 The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails—given by one shepherd.
12 Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them. Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.
13 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.

Cross References 1

  • 1. S Ezra 9:8; S Job 6:25

Footnotes 1

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