If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.
KJV
Parallel translations
4 additional translations▾
Parallel translations
4 additional translationsIf the iron be blunt, and one do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.
If the axe is dull and the blade unsharpened, more strength must be exerted, but skill produces success.
If the iron hath been blunt, And he the face hath not sharpened, Then doth he increase strength, And wisdom is advantageous to make right.
If the iron be blunt, and one do not whet the edge, then must he apply more strength; but wisdom is profitable to give success.
About this book
Old Testament▾
About this book
Old TestamentEcclesiastes — Qohelet the Preacher — ''vanity of vanities, all is vanity.'' The book's relentless examination of life under the sun, resolving not in despair but in ''fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.''
- Author
- Traditional: Solomon (''son of David, king in Jerusalem''). Critical: a later Qohelet figure writing in Solomonic persona. §7.9 surfaces; Pastor Marc's drawer carries the position.
- Date
- Solomonic reading: c. 940 BC. Critical reading: Persian or early Hellenistic period (5th–3rd century BC).