Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Ecclesiastes 8:1
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Ecclesiastes8:1
CHAPTER 8
Ec 8:1-17.
1. Praise of true wisdom continued (Ec 7:11, &c.). "Who" is to be accounted "equal to the wise man? ... Who (like him) knoweth the interpretation" of God's providences (for example, Ec 7:8, 13, 14), and God's word (for example, see on Ec 7:29; Pr 1:6)?
face to shine--(Ec 7:14; Ac 6:15). A sunny countenance, the reflection of a tranquil conscience and serene mind. Communion with God gives it (Ex 34:29, 30).
boldness--austerity.
changed--into a benign expression by true wisdom (religion) (Jas 3:17). Maurer translates, "The shining (brightness) of his face is doubled," arguing that the Hebrew noun for "boldness" is never used in a bad sense (Pr 4:18). Or as Margin, "strength" (Ec 7:19; Is 40:31; 2Co 3:18). But the adjective is used in a bad sense (De 28:50).
Jamieson, Fausset and Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible, Ecclesiastes 8:1. Public domain.
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