New International VersionWhat has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.
New Living TranslationHistory merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new.
English Standard VersionWhat has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun.
Berean Standard BibleWhat has been will be again, and what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.
King James BibleThe thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
New King James VersionThat which has been is what will be, That which is done is what will be done, And there is nothing new under the sun.
New American Standard BibleWhat has been, it is what will be, And what has been done, it is what will be done. So there is nothing new under the sun.
NASB 1995That which has been is that which will be, And that which has been done is that which will be done. So there is nothing new under the sun.
NASB 1977That which has been is that which will be, And that which has been done is that which will be done. So, there is nothing new under the sun.
Legacy Standard BibleThat which has been is that which will be, And that which has been done is that which will be done. So there is nothing new under the sun.
Amplified BibleThat which has been is that which will be [again], And that which has been done is that which will be done again. So there is nothing new under the sun.
Christian Standard BibleWhat has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done; there is nothing new under the sun.
Holman Christian Standard BibleWhat has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done; there is nothing new under the sun.
American Standard VersionThat which hath been is that which shall be; and that which hath been done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
Contemporary English VersionEverything that happens has happened before; nothing is new, nothing under the sun.
English Revised VersionThat which hath been is that which shall be; and that which hath been done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationWhatever has happened before will happen [again]. Whatever has been done before will be done [again]. There is nothing new under the sun.
Good News TranslationWhat has happened before will happen again. What has been done before will be done again. There is nothing new in the whole world.
International Standard VersionWhatever has happened, will happen again; whatever has been done, will be done again. There is nothing new on earth.
NET BibleWhat exists now is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done; there is nothing truly new on earth.
New Heart English BibleThat which has been is that which shall be; and that which has been done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
Webster's Bible TranslationThe thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleWhat has been will be again, and what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.
World English BibleThat which has been is that which shall be, and that which has been done is that which shall be done; and there is no new thing under the sun. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionWhat [is] that which has been? It [is] that which is, and what [is] that which has been done? It [is] that which is done, and there is not an entirely new thing under the sun.
Young's Literal Translation What is that which hath been? it is that which is, and what is that which hath been done? it is that which is done, and there is not an entirely new thing under the sun.
Smith's Literal TranslationWhat was, that shall be; and what was done, that shall be done: and not anything new under the sun. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleWhat is it that hath been? the same thing that shall be. What is it that hath been done? the same that shall be done.
Catholic Public Domain VersionWhat is it that has existed? The same shall exist in the future. What is it that has been done? The same shall continue to be done.
New American BibleWhat has been, that will be; what has been done, that will be done. Nothing is new under the sun!
New Revised Standard VersionWhat has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done; there is nothing new under the sun. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleThe thing that has been is that which shall be; and that which has been done is that which shall be done; and there is nothing new under the sun.
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedWhatever was, is, and what was done, that is done. and there is nothing new under the sun OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917That which hath been is that which shall be, And that which hath been done is that which shall be done; And there is nothing new under the sun.
Brenton Septuagint TranslationWhat is that which has been? the very thing which shall be: and what is that which has been done? the very thing which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Everything is Futile… 8All things are wearisome, more than one can describe; the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear content with hearing. 9Whathas beenwill be again,and whathas been donewill be done again;there is nothingnewunderthe sun.10Is there a case where one can say, “Look, this is new”? It has already existed in the ages before us.…
Cross References 2 Peter 2:22Of them the proverbs are true: “A dog returns to its vomit,” and, “A sow that is washed goes back to her wallowing in the mud.”
2 Timothy 3:7who are always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.
Matthew 24:37-39As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be at the coming of the Son of Man. / For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark. / And they were oblivious until the flood came and swept them all away. So will it be at the coming of the Son of Man.
Luke 17:26-30Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man: / People were eating and drinking, marrying and being given in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all. / It was the same in the days of Lot: People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. ...
1 Corinthians 10:11Now these things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come.
Romans 15:4For everything that was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope.
Hebrews 13:8Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Revelation 21:5And the One seated on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” Then He said, “Write this down, for these words are faithful and true.”
Isaiah 46:9-10Remember what happened long ago, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me. / I declare the end from the beginning, and from ancient times what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and all My good pleasure I will accomplish.’
Isaiah 43:18-19“Do not call to mind the former things; pay no attention to the things of old. / Behold, I am about to do something new; even now it is coming. Do you not see it? Indeed, I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert.
Genesis 6:5-7Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time. / And the LORD regretted that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. / So the LORD said, “I will blot out man, whom I have created, from the face of the earth—every man and beast and crawling creature and bird of the air—for I am grieved that I have made them.”
Genesis 8:21When the LORD smelled the pleasing aroma, He said in His heart, “Never again will I curse the ground because of man, even though every inclination of his heart is evil from his youth. And never again will I destroy all living creatures as I have done.
Genesis 9:11-17And I establish My covenant with you: Never again will all life be cut off by the waters of a flood; never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth.” / And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant I am making between Me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: / I have set My rainbow in the clouds, and it will be a sign of the covenant between Me and the earth. ...
Psalm 78:40-42How often they disobeyed Him in the wilderness and grieved Him in the desert! / Again and again they tested God and provoked the Holy One of Israel. / They did not remember His power—the day He redeemed them from the adversary,
Psalm 90:3-4You return man to dust, saying, “Return, O sons of mortals.” / For in Your sight a thousand years are but a day that passes, or a watch of the night.
Treasury of Scripture The thing that has been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun. that hath Ecclesiastes 3:15 That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past. Ecclesiastes 7:10 Say not thou, What isthe cause that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not inquire wisely concerning this. 2 Peter 2:1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. and there Isaiah 43:19 Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness,and rivers in the desert. Jeremiah 31:22 How long wilt thou go about, O thou backsliding daughter? for the LORD hath created a new thing in the earth, A woman shall compass a man. Revelation 21:1,5 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea… Jump to Previous EntirelyNewSunJump to Next EntirelyNewSunEcclesiastes 1 1.the preacher shows that all human courses are vain4.because the creatures are restless in their courses9.they bring forth nothing new, and all old things are forgotten12.and because he has found it so in the studies of wisdomWhat has been will be againThis phrase reflects the cyclical nature of human history and experience. The author, traditionally identified as Solomon, observes that human endeavors and events tend to repeat themselves. This concept is rooted in the understanding of a fallen world where human nature remains consistent over time. Theologically, it underscores the idea of a world subjected to futility due to sin, as seen in Romans 8:20-21. The repetitive nature of history can be seen in the rise and fall of empires, the recurring patterns of human behavior, and the ongoing struggle with sin and redemption. and what has been done will be done again
This continuation emphasizes the repetitive actions and achievements of humanity. Despite technological advancements and cultural changes, the fundamental activities and pursuits of people remain unchanged. This can be seen in the continuous quest for power, wealth, and knowledge throughout history. The phrase suggests a sense of weariness and futility, echoing the sentiments found inGenesis 3:17-19, where labor and toil are part of the human condition post-Fall. It also points to the limitations of human innovation and the inability to achieve ultimate fulfillment through earthly means. there is nothing new under the sun
This concluding statement reinforces the idea that all human endeavors are ultimately transient and repetitive. The phrase "under the sun" is a key theme in Ecclesiastes, signifying life from a purely earthly perspective, devoid of eternal significance. It highlights the limitations of human wisdom and achievement when disconnected from divine purpose. This perspective is contrasted with the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ, who offers newness of life (2 Corinthians 5:17) and a hope that transcends earthly existence. The phrase challenges readers to seek meaning beyond the temporal and to find purpose in the eternal truths of God's kingdom. Persons / Places / Events 1. SolomonTraditionally considered the author of Ecclesiastes, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He reflects on the cyclical nature of life and human endeavors. 2. JerusalemThe city where Solomon reigned as king. It serves as the backdrop for his reflections on life, wisdom, and the futility of human efforts without God. 3. The SunA recurring symbol in Ecclesiastes representing the natural world and the repetitive cycles of life. It emphasizes the temporal and earthly perspective of human activities. Teaching Points The Cyclical Nature of LifeLife's repetitive cycles remind us of our limitations and the need for divine perspective. Recognizing this can lead us to seek God's eternal wisdom rather than relying solely on human understanding. The Futility of Human Efforts Without GodWithout God, human efforts can seem meaningless. True purpose and fulfillment are found in aligning our lives with God's will and eternal plan. Contentment in God's SovereigntyUnderstanding that "there is nothing new under the sun" can lead us to find contentment in God's sovereignty, trusting that He is in control of the cycles of life. The Importance of Eternal PerspectiveFocusing on eternal values rather than temporary achievements helps us live with purpose and hope, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 1:9?
2.How does Ecclesiastes 1:9 challenge our view of human innovation and progress?
3.What does "nothing new under the sun" reveal about God's sovereignty?
4.How can Ecclesiastes 1:9 deepen our understanding of human nature and sin?
5.In what ways does Ecclesiastes 1:9 connect to the teachings of Jesus?
6.How should Ecclesiastes 1:9 influence our daily decisions and priorities?
7.How does Ecclesiastes 1:9 challenge the belief in human progress and innovation?
8.Does Ecclesiastes 1:9 imply that history is cyclical rather than linear?
9.How does Ecclesiastes 1:9 relate to the concept of divine sovereignty?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Ecclesiastes 1?
11.Ecclesiastes 1:9 – In light of countless historical inventions and discoveries, how can the claim “there is nothing new under the sun” be taken literally?
12.Ecclesiastes 1:10 – If someone points to innovations as “new,” how does the text account for modern technology and entirely unprecedented achievements?
13.What does "Everything is Meaningless" signify?
14.In Ecclesiastes 9:5, if the dead truly 'know nothing,' how does that square with verses elsewhere suggesting an active afterlife?What Does Ecclesiastes 1:9 Mean What has been will be again• Solomon opens by noting patterns that repeat in God’s ordered world. From sunrise to seasons, creation keeps cycling just as the Lord promised after the flood: “While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night shall not cease” (Genesis 8:22). • History does the same. Empires rise and fall, moral climates warm and cool, yetPsalm 90:2 reminds us, “from everlasting to everlasting You are God.” • The verse therefore underlines our finiteness: we cannot invent a brand-new reality; we live inside rhythms ordained by the Creator (Ecclesiastes 3:1).
What has been done will be done again• Human deeds echo down the centuries: – Ambition (Genesis 11:4; compare present-day skyscrapers and space towers) – Oppression (Exodus 1:13-14; see modern trafficking) – Revival and backsliding (Judges 2:19; note the cyclical nature of spiritual awakenings) •Romans 3:23 states, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” The verse in Ecclesiastes highlights that fallen humanity keeps replaying the same script. • Yet God remains sovereign over each cycle, using even repetitive human actions to accomplish His purposes (Isaiah 46:10).
There is nothing new under the sun• “Under the sun” speaks of life viewed from earthbound perspective. Within that horizon, every “innovation” is merely a rearrangement of existing materials (1 Timothy 6:7). • Technology changes the tools, not the heart. Phones connect faster, but gossip and pride (1 John 2:16) are as old as Eden. • True newness comes only from above the sun: “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17). God alone can say, “Behold, I make all things new” (Revelation 21:5).
summaryEcclesiastes 1:9 reminds us that life’s cycles, recurring deeds, and supposed novelties all testify to human limitation and God’s unchanging rule. Recognizing the repetition drives us to seek the only One who can break the loop by giving new hearts and an eternal hope beyond the sun. (9) Nonew thing.--Contrast Jeremiah 31:22; Isaiah 43:19; Isaiah 65:17. Justin Martyr ( Apol. i. 57) has what looks like a reminiscence of this verse; but we cannot rely on it to prove his acquaintance with the book, the same idea being found in Grecian philosophy. Verse 9. - The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be. The LXX. and the Vulgate render the first clauses of the two parts of the verse in both cases interrogatively, thus: "What is that which hath been? The very thing which shall be. And what is that which hath been done? The very thing which shall be done." What has been affirmed of phenomena in the material world is now affirmed of the events of man's life. They move in an analogous circle, whether they are concerned with actions or morals. Plumptre sees here an anticipation or a reproduction of the Stoic doctrine of a recurring cycle of events, such as Viral mentions in his fourth 'Eclogue' - "Magnus ab integro saeclorum nascitur ordo," etc. But Koheleth is speaking merely from experience, and is indulging in no philosophical speculations. There isno new thing under the sun. The Vulgate transfers this clause to the next verso, which, indeed, supports the assertion. From classical authors commentators have culled examples of the same thought. Thus Tacitus, 'Annal.,' 3:55, "Nisi forte rebus cunctis inest quidam velut orbis, ut quem ad modum temporum vices, ita morum vertantur." Seneca, 'Epist.,' 24, "Nullius rei finis est, sod in orbem nexa sunt omnia; fugiunt ac sequuntur Omnia transeunt ut revertantur, nihil novi video, nihil novi facio. Fit ali-quando et hujus rei nausea." M. Aurelius, 'Medit.,' 6:37, "He that sees the present has seen all things, both that which has Been from everlasting and that which shall Be in the future. All things are of one birth and one form." Again, 7:1, "There is nothing new; all things are common and quickly over;" 12:26, "Everything that comes to pass was always so coming to pass, and will take place again." Justin Martyr, 'Apol.,' 1:57, has, perhaps, a reminiscence of this passage when he writes,Οὐ γὰρδεοίκαμεν θάνατον τοῦ πάντως ἀποθανεῖν
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew Whatמַה־(mah-)Interrogative
Strong's 4100:What?, what!, indefinitely whathas beenשֶּֽׁהָיָה֙(še·hā·yāh)Pronoun - relative | Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1961:To fall out, come to pass, become, beis whatה֣וּא(hū)Pronoun - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1931:He, self, the same, this, that, as, arewill be,שֶׁיִּהְיֶ֔ה(še·yih·yeh)Pronoun - relative | Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 1961:To fall out, come to pass, become, beand whatוּמַה־(ū·mah-)Conjunctive waw | Interrogative
Strong's 4100:What?, what!, indefinitely whathas been doneשֶׁנַּֽעֲשָׂ֔ה(šen·na·‘ă·śāh)Pronoun - relative | Verb - Nifal - Perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6213:To do, makewill be done again;שֶׁיֵּעָשֶׂ֑ה(še·yê·‘ā·śeh)Pronoun - relative | Verb - Nifal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6213:To do, makethere is nothingוְאֵ֥ין(wə·’ên)Conjunctive waw | Adverb
Strong's 369:A non-entity, a negative particlenewחָדָ֖שׁ(ḥā·ḏāš)Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 2319:Newunderתַּ֥חַת(ta·ḥaṯ)Preposition
Strong's 8478:The bottom, below, in lieu ofthe sun.הַשָּֽׁמֶשׁ׃(haš·šā·meš)Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 8121:The sun, the east, a ray, a notched battlement
Links Ecclesiastes 1:9 NIVEcclesiastes 1:9 NLTEcclesiastes 1:9 ESVEcclesiastes 1:9 NASBEcclesiastes 1:9 KJV
Ecclesiastes 1:9 BibleApps.comEcclesiastes 1:9 Biblia ParalelaEcclesiastes 1:9 Chinese BibleEcclesiastes 1:9 French BibleEcclesiastes 1:9 Catholic Bible
OT Poetry: Ecclesiastes 1:9 That which has been is that which (Ecclesiast. Ec Ecc Eccles.) |
