I have also seen this wisdom under the sun,The phrase "under the sun" is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes, emphasizing the earthly, temporal perspective of human life. It suggests a viewpoint limited to the material world, distinct from the divine or eternal perspective. The "wisdom" mentioned here refers to practical, observable insights gained from life experiences. This wisdom is not necessarily divine revelation but rather an understanding of life's complexities and paradoxes. The phrase echoes the book's exploration of human endeavors and the search for meaning in a world that often seems futile and unpredictable.
and it was great to me:
The term "great" indicates that the wisdom observed was significant or impressive to the author, traditionally believed to be Solomon. This suggests a recognition of the value and impact of wisdom, even within the limitations of earthly existence. The acknowledgment of wisdom's greatness aligns with the broader biblical theme that true wisdom is a precious and powerful asset (Proverbs 4:7). It also reflects the idea that wisdom, though sometimes overlooked or undervalued in a fallen world, holds intrinsic worth and can lead to better understanding and decision-making. This appreciation for wisdom can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament's portrayal of Christ as the embodiment of divine wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:24).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
SolomonTraditionally considered the author of Ecclesiastes, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom, wealth, and writings. His reflections in Ecclesiastes are often seen as a culmination of his life experiences and observations.
2.
Under the SunThis phrase is frequently used in Ecclesiastes to denote life on earth from a human perspective, emphasizing the temporal and often perplexing nature of worldly existence.
3.
WisdomIn this context, wisdom refers to practical understanding and insight that Solomon observed in the world. It is often contrasted with folly and is a central theme in the book.
Teaching Points
The Value of Observing LifeSolomon's reflections remind us to observe and learn from the world around us. Wisdom can be found in everyday experiences if we take the time to reflect on them.
The Limitations of Human WisdomWhile human wisdom is valuable, it is limited. True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and is ultimately found in God’s revelation.
The Importance of HumilityRecognizing the greatness of wisdom "under the sun" should lead us to humility, acknowledging that our understanding is partial and dependent on God.
Seeking Godly WisdomAs believers, we are called to seek wisdom that aligns with God’s character and purposes, which often contrasts with worldly wisdom.
Living Wisely in a Fallen WorldEcclesiastes encourages us to live wisely amidst the complexities and uncertainties of life, trusting in God’s sovereignty and goodness.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 9:13?
2.How does Ecclesiastes 9:13 illustrate the value of wisdom over strength?
3.What lessons can we learn from the "small city" and "great king"?
4.How can we apply the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 9:13 in daily decisions?
5.What other Bible passages emphasize the importance of wisdom over might?
6.How does this verse challenge our understanding of power and influence?
7.What is the significance of wisdom in Ecclesiastes 9:13?
8.How does Ecclesiastes 9:13 challenge our understanding of power and influence?
9.Why is the story in Ecclesiastes 9:13 considered a parable of wisdom?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Ecclesiastes 9?
11.Who is Qoheleth in the Book of Ecclesiastes?
12.What wisdom and teachings do the Ketuvim offer?
13.Does Ecclesiastes 2:15-16 contradict Proverbs' exaltation of wisdom by calling wisdom ultimately futile?
14.Does the advice to sharpen the axe in Ecclesiastes 10:10 imply a reliance on human effort over divine intervention, creating tension with texts that stress faith and dependence on God?What Does Ecclesiastes 9:13 Mean
I have also seenSolomon, the writer, pauses to share a fresh observation: “I have also seen…” (Ecclesiastes 9:13).
• He’s adding this account to the many scenes he has already cataloged (Ecclesiastes 1:14; 7:15).
• The wording reminds us that biblical wisdom is rooted in real, witnessed events, not speculation (1 Kings 4:33-34).
• By saying “also,” Solomon signals that God’s lessons keep unfolding; there is always more to discover if we will look (Psalm 111:2).
This wisdomThe focus is on “this wisdom,” something practical and observable rather than abstract philosophy (Proverbs 3:13-18).
• Solomon is about to recount a real-life example of godly insight at work—namely the deliverance of a small city by a poor wise man (Ecclesiastes 9:14-15).
• Such wisdom comes from the Lord (Proverbs 2:6) and often appears in humble, unexpected packages (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).
• The account underscores that true wisdom is measured by righteous impact, not social status (James 3:17).
Under the sun“Under the sun” anchors the lesson in life’s everyday arena—this broken world in which we labor (Ecclesiastes 1:3; 2:17; 3:16).
• Scripture never hides from the grit of daily existence; it meets us there.
• Lessons learned “under the sun” help us live faithfully while we await the fullness of God’s kingdom (Romans 8:18-25).
• Even in fallen conditions, God’s wisdom still shines, proving that His truth is relevant to every setting (Psalm 19:7-11).
And it was great to meSolomon concludes, “and it was great to me,” revealing how deeply the incident impressed him.
• The greatness is not in the storyteller but in the wisdom itself—its power, beauty, and effectiveness (2 Chronicles 1:12).
• When godly insight changes outcomes, hearts, or destinies, we should stand in awe, just as Solomon did (Psalm 119:18).
• His amazement urges us to value wisdom highly, even when the culture overlooks it (Matthew 13:44-46).
summaryEcclesiastes 9:13 introduces a striking case study: Solomon personally witnessed a display of divinely sourced wisdom at work in ordinary life, and the experience left a lasting impact on him. By flagging the event with phrases like “I have also seen,” “this wisdom,” “under the sun,” and “it was great to me,” God’s Word invites us to watch for, prize, and apply heaven-sent insight in our own everyday circumstances, confident that even in a fallen world, the Lord’s wisdom remains powerful and transformative.
Verses 13-16. - Section 9. That
wisdom, even when it does good service, is not always rewarded, is shown by an example.
Verse 13. -
This wisdom have I seen also under the sun; better, as the Septuagint,
This also I saw to be wisdom under the sun. The experience which follows he recognized as an instance of worldly wisdom. To what special event he alludes is quite unknown. Probably the circumstance was familiar to his contemporaries. It is not to be considered as an allegory, though of course it is capable of spiritual application. The event in Bible history most like it is the preservation of Abel-Beth-maachah by the counsel of the wise woman (whose name is forgotten) narrated in
2 Samuel 20:15-22.
And it seemed great unto me; Septuagint,
Καὶ μεγάλη ἐστι πρὸς μέ, "And it is great before me." To my mind it appeared an important example (comp.
Esther 10:3). Some critics who contend for the Solomonic authorship of our book, see here an allegorical reference to the foreseen revolt of Jeroboam, whose insurrection had been opposed by certain wise statesmen, but had been carried out in opposition to their counsel. Wordsworth considers that the apologue may be illustrated by the history of Jerusalem, when great powers were arrayed against it in the time of Isaiah, and the prophet by his prayers and exhortations delivered it (
2 Kings 19:2, 6, 20), but was wholly disregarded afterwards, nay, was put to death by the son of the king whom he saved. But all this is
nihil ad rem. As Plautus says, "Haec quidem deliramenta loquitur."
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
I have also seenרָאִ֥יתִי(rā·’î·ṯî)Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 7200:To seethisזֹ֛ה(zōh)Pronoun - feminine singular
Strong's 2090:This, thatwisdomחָכְמָ֖ה(ḥāḵ·māh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 2451:Wisdomunderתַּ֣חַת(ta·ḥaṯ)Preposition
Strong's 8478:The bottom, below, in lieu ofthe sun,הַשָּׁ֑מֶשׁ(haš·šā·meš)Article | Noun - common singular
Strong's 8121:The sun, the east, a ray, a notched battlementand itהִ֖יא(hî)Pronoun - third person feminine singular
Strong's 1931:He, self, the same, this, that, as, are[was] greatוּגְדוֹלָ֥ה(ū·ḡə·ḏō·w·lāh)Conjunctive waw | Adjective - feminine singular
Strong's 1419:Great, older, insolentto me:אֵלָֽי׃(’ê·lāy)Preposition | first person common singular
Strong's 413:Near, with, among, to
Links
Ecclesiastes 9:13 NIVEcclesiastes 9:13 NLTEcclesiastes 9:13 ESVEcclesiastes 9:13 NASBEcclesiastes 9:13 KJV
Ecclesiastes 9:13 BibleApps.comEcclesiastes 9:13 Biblia ParalelaEcclesiastes 9:13 Chinese BibleEcclesiastes 9:13 French BibleEcclesiastes 9:13 Catholic Bible
OT Poetry: Ecclesiastes 9:13 I have also seen wisdom under (Ecclesiast. Ec Ecc Eccles.) 
