Ecclesiastes 9:17 Commentary and Bible Study

Further, subsequent reflection by Solomon enlarged on these initial conclusions. It was his lifetime habit to turn over in his mind anything from which he could learn more about God’s ways and man’s ways. He strove to draw general lessons out of particular incidents and to increase his understanding of the world around him by shining the spotlight of God’s truth on them. This verse seems to comment on the poor man’s manner in delivering his advice to the city. While there was general panic and confusion in the city, and the rulers joined in with this and issued desperate instructions which were essentially useless, the poor man spoke quietly to a few: if we do this, if we say this to the besieging armies, we will be delivered. His quiet message did more good than all the shouting of those in charge. Solomon draws a general lesson from this. It is prophesied of Christ that, ‘He will not cry out or raise His voice, nor make His voice heard in the street’ (Isaiah 42:2). Wisdom is content to conduct itself quietly, calmly, humbly, unostentatiously. It knows its own value perfectly well, but will not thrust itself on those who will trample it under their feet. It waits for the Spirit of God to teach men its value. It does not hide, but utters its voice publicly, and yet it is ready to leave the outcome with God, who is the source of all wisdom and knowledge.