John Dummelow's Commentary on the Bible - Ecclesiastes 7:1-29
Practical Aphorisms1-6. Things useful to remember in life. The writer has just warned as that we cannot rely on either the present or the future. We can, however, guide ourselves in the conduct of life by bearing in mind useful truths. These he now proceeds to give.1. Precious ointment] This was a much-prized luxury in the East (cp. Psalms 45:8; Amos 6:6; Matthew 26:7; Luke 7:37), but to be held in esteem is still better. There is a play on words in the Heb. (Shem, ’a name,’ and Shemen,... read more
Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - Ecclesiastes 7:19-24
Righteousness does not always protect from adversity (Ecclesiastes 7:15-16), but wisdom will help guard us against it (Ecclesiastes 7:19)."Wisdom is not the knowledge of accumulated facts but the inner strength that comes from a God-instructed conscience." [Note: J. S. Wright, "Ecclesiastes," p. 1176.] Wisdom is necessary because righteousness does not protect completely (Ecclesiastes 7:20). Solomon illustrated the fact-in Ecclesiastes 7:21-22 -that no one is perfectly righteous. If you think... read more