Ecclesiastes 8:11
11 When the sentence for a crime is not quickly carried out, people's hearts are filled with schemes to do wrong.
Other Translations of Ecclesiastes 8:11
King James Version
11 Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.
English Standard Version
11 Because the sentence against an evil deed is not executed speedily, the heart of the children of man is fully set to do evil.
The Message
11 ecause the sentence against evil deeds is so long in coming, people in general think they can get by with murder.
New King James Version
11 Because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.
New Living Translation
11 When a crime is not punished quickly, people feel it is safe to do wrong.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Ecclesiastes 8:11
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.