12 But even though a person sins a hundred times and still lives a long time, I know that those who fear God will be better off.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:12

Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:9-13

(Read Ecclesiastes 8:9-13)

Solomon observed, that many a time one man rules over another to his hurt, and that prosperity hardens them in their wickedness. Sinners herein deceive themselves. Vengeance comes slowly, but it comes surely. A good man's days have some substance; he lives to a good purpose: a wicked man's days are all as a shadow, empty and worthless. Let us pray that we may view eternal things as near, real, and all-important.