2 Obey the king's command, I say, because you took an oath before God.

Other Translations of Ecclesiastes 8:2

King James Version

2 I counsel thee to keep the king's commandment, and that in regard of the oath of God.

English Standard Version

2 I say:Hebrew lacks say Keep the king's command, because of God's oath to him.Or because of your oath to God

The Message

2 Do what your king commands; you gave a sacred oath of obedience.

New King James Version

2 I say, "Keep the king's commandment for the sake of your oath to God.

New Living Translation

2 Obey the king since you vowed to God that you would.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:2

Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:1-5

(Read Ecclesiastes 8:1-5)

None of the rich, the powerful, the honourable, or the accomplished of the sons of men, are so excellent, useful, or happy, as the wise man. Who else can interpret the words of God, or teach aright from his truths and dispensations? What madness must it be for weak and dependent creatures to rebel against the Almighty! What numbers form wrong judgments, and bring misery on themselves, in this life and that to come!