Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Ecclesiastes - Chapter 10 - Verse 20

10:20
Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a bird of the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.

Meaning

In this verse, the author advises against cursing the king or the rich, even in private. This warning emphasizes the importance of being mindful of one's thoughts and words, as they can have consequences beyond what we may anticipate. The mention of a bird carrying the voice and spreading the matter symbolizes how our words can travel and echo back to us, impacting our relationships and reputation. This verse serves as a reminder to show respect and restraint in our attitudes and conversations, regardless of our feelings towards those in positions of power or privilege. By following this advice, we can avoid unnecessary conflict and maintain integrity in our interactions with others. Additionally, the verse highlights the concept of accountability, suggesting that our words and thoughts have the potential to be heard and have repercussions, even when expressed in private settings. Overall, this verse encourages mindfulness and discretion in our speech and thoughts towards others.

Theological Overview

This verse from Ecclesiastes 10:20 serves as a caution against speaking ill of those in positions of authority or those who are wealthy. The message here is clear: one should be mindful of what they say, even in the privacy of their thoughts or in the confines of their own bedroom. The imagery of a bird carrying the voice and sharing the matter emphasizes the idea that words spoken in secret can have consequences. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of respecting those in authority and being cautious with our words. It reminds us that our words have power and can come back to haunt us if spoken carelessly. Additionally, the verse encourages believers to practice humility and kindness towards others, regardless of their status or position in society. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder to think before speaking and to always strive to show love and respect to others, even when we may disagree with them.

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