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Book of Ecclesiastes - Chapter 11 - Verse 2

11:2
Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth.

Meaning

In this verse, the concept of generosity and preparedness is highlighted. The idea of giving a portion to seven and even to eight suggests a willingness to share resources with others beyond what may be expected or required. This can be seen as an encouragement to be generous and to go above and beyond in helping those in need. The second part of the verse, "for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth," serves as a reminder that we do not know what challenges or hardships may come our way in the future. By being generous and prepared, we can build stronger communities and relationships that may help us weather any storm that comes our way. Overall, this verse encourages us to be proactive in our generosity and to be mindful of the unpredictable nature of life, emphasizing the importance of looking out for others and being prepared for whatever may come.

Theological Overview

The phrase "Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth" from Ecclesiastes 11:2 emphasizes the importance of generosity and preparedness for unforeseen circumstances. In a theological interpretation, this verse can be seen as encouraging believers to share their resources with others willingly and abundantly. By giving to seven and even to eight, one is being urged to be generous beyond what is expected, showing a heart of compassion and kindness towards those in need. The mention of not knowing what evil may come upon the earth serves as a reminder that life is unpredictable, and it is important to be prepared for any challenges that may arise. This verse can be a call for believers to be proactive in helping others and being ready to face difficulties with a spirit of generosity and resilience.

American Standard Version

Give a portion to seven, yea, even unto eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth.
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