Chasing the Wind: Wisdom & Politics
Ecclesiastes 9:18b-10:20
Wisdom & Folly (9:18b-10:7)
· Solomon continues his reflection on wisdom
o Where earlier it was better than strength (9:13-18a)
o Now it shown that even a little folly can ruin great wisdom (9:18b-10:1)
· Foolishness will always be found out (10:3)
o Though it can rise to great position (10:4-7)
o Slaves/princes: Not a comment on social status
§ But one’s moral character
On Schemes (10:8-11)
· Solomon uses metaphors to describe the pitfalls of scheming
· Those who seek gain by evil schemes find that they often backfire on them (v. 8)
· But even the hard work of the wise can cause them harm (v. 9)
o But these dangers can be minimized by preparation and foresight (v. 10-11)
On Counsel (10:12-15)
· The wise use their words to benefit others and themselves (v. 12a)
o And keeps their words few
· The foolish use their words to benefit only themselves (v. 12b-15)
o And they use many words, thus multiplying their foolishness
o They do not have true insight to give
§ Not even directions to town (v. 15b)
On Rulers (10:16-20)
· The mark of good leader is their wisdom
· Those who have no self-control and act childish will ruin the land
o Child/Princes & Nobility: Again, not a comment on social status
§ But one’s moral character
· Solomon’s comments on sloth is both personal and national (v. 18)
o When we are unwilling to do hard work, our household/nation suffers
· “People prepare food for pleasure, and wine makes life joyful, but money pays for both.” (v. 19)
o “The point is that at least some money is essential for enjoying life, and steps must therefore be taken to ensure that the economy (be it national or personal) is sound.” –Duane Garrett
· Because of one’s connection to the state of the nation
o We should be cautious in how we speak of those in positions of power (v. 20)
§ Even in private, since we don’t know who may hear
So What?
· Are we seeking wisdom, and showing it in how we speak to others, or in what we do NOT say?
· Is our worldview bigger than our own life? Do we see how the fate of our nation affects us?
Meditation Verse: Ecclesiastes 10:12
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