Ecclesiastes 8:4 - Exposition

Where the word of a king is, there is power. A further confirmation of the last thought. More accurately, "Inasmuch as the word of a king is powerful" ( shilton , Ecclesiastes 8:8 ). This last word is used in Daniel ( Daniel 3:2 ) for "a lord," or "ruler." The king does as he thinks fit because his mandate is all-powerful, and must be obeyed, And who may say unto him, What doest thou? The same expression is found applied to God ( Job 9:12 ; Isaiah 45:9 ; Wis. 12:12). The absolute authority of a despot is spoken of in the same terms as the irresistible power of Almighty God. εἰκὼν δὲ βασιλεύς ἐστιν ἔμψυχος θεοῦ . "God's living image is an earthly king."