Ecclesiastes 10:5

There is an evil I have seen under the sun--an error that proceeds from the ruler:

Study Bible

There is an evil I have seen under the sun—
The phrase "under the sun" is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes, emphasizing the earthly, temporal perspective of human life. It suggests a viewpoint limited to the material world, often highlighting the futility and vanity of human endeavors without divine perspective. The "evil" mentioned here refers to a moral or ethical wrong, something that disrupts the natural order or justice. This aligns with the broader theme of Ecclesiastes, which often reflects on the apparent injustices and absurdities of life.

an error that proceeds from the ruler:
The "error" indicates a mistake or misjudgment, particularly in leadership. In ancient Israel and surrounding cultures, rulers were expected to uphold justice and wisdom. When a ruler errs, it can have widespread consequences, affecting the entire nation. This reflects the biblical principle that leadership carries significant responsibility and accountability (Proverbs 29:2). The mention of a ruler connects to the broader biblical narrative of kingship, where leaders like David and Solomon are both celebrated and critiqued for their governance. It also foreshadows the perfect rule of Jesus Christ, the ultimate King, who embodies wisdom and justice (Isaiah 9:6-7).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Ecclesiastes, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom, wealth, and writings. His reflections in Ecclesiastes often explore the meaning of life and the human condition.

2. Ruler
The term "ruler" in this context refers to those in positions of authority or leadership. The verse highlights the potential for error and folly even among those who govern.

3. Under the Sun
A phrase frequently used in Ecclesiastes to denote life on earth, emphasizing the temporal and often perplexing nature of worldly experiences.

Teaching Points

The Fallibility of Human Leadership
Even the most powerful leaders are prone to error and folly. This should remind us of the importance of humility and seeking God's wisdom in positions of authority.

The Impact of Leadership on Society
The actions and decisions of rulers can have profound effects on their people. This underscores the need for leaders to act justly and wisely.

The Importance of Discernment
As believers, we must discern the actions of those in authority and hold them accountable, while also praying for their guidance and wisdom.

The Sovereignty of God
Despite the errors of human rulers, God remains sovereign. We can trust that He is ultimately in control, even when earthly leadership fails.

The Call to Pray for Leaders
Scripture calls us to pray for those in authority, recognizing their need for divine guidance to avoid the errors that Solomon observed.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of "an error that proceeds from the ruler" challenge our understanding of leadership and authority?

2. In what ways can we apply the lessons from Ecclesiastes 10:5 to our roles as leaders in our families, workplaces, or communities?

3. How do the additional scriptures (Proverbs 28:15, Isaiah 3:4-5, 1 Timothy 2:1-2) enhance our understanding of the potential pitfalls of leadership?

4. What practical steps can we take to support and pray for our leaders, both in the church and in secular society?

5. How can we maintain a balance between respecting authority and holding leaders accountable to God's standards?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 28:15
This verse discusses the impact of wicked rulers on their people, drawing a parallel to the "evil" seen by Solomon in Ecclesiastes 10:5.

Isaiah 3:4-5
These verses describe a time when God allows immature and foolish leaders to rule, leading to societal chaos, similar to the "error" mentioned in Ecclesiastes.

1 Timothy 2:1-2
Encourages prayer for those in authority, recognizing the significant influence leaders have on the well-being of their people, which relates to the potential for error in leadership.