10 Do not say, "Why were the old days better than these?" For it is not wise to ask such questions.

Other Translations of Ecclesiastes 7:10

King James Version

10 Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not enquire wisely wisely: Heb. out of wisdom concerning this.

English Standard Version

10 Say not, "Why were the former days better than these?" For it is not from wisdom that you ask this.

The Message

10 Don't always be asking, "Where are the good old days?" Wise folks don't ask questions like that.

New King James Version

10 Do not say, "Why were the former days better than these?" For you do not inquire wisely concerning this.

New Living Translation

10 Don't long for "the good old days." This is not wise.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 7:10

Commentary on Ecclesiastes 7:7-10

(Read Ecclesiastes 7:7-10)

The event of our trials and difficulties is often better than at first we thought. Surely it is better to be patient in spirit, than to be proud and hasty. Be not soon angry, nor quick in resenting an affront. Be not long angry; though anger may come into the bosom of a wise man, it passes through it as a way-faring man; it dwells only in the bosom of fools. It is folly to cry out upon the badness of our times, when we have more reason to cry out for the badness of our own hearts; and even in these times we enjoy many mercies. It is folly to cry up the goodness of former times; as if former ages had not the like things to complain of that we have: this arises from discontent, and aptness to quarrel with God himself.