Ecclesiastes 10:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Blessed art thou, O land, when thy king is the son of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season, for strength, and not for drunkenness!”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A nation is blessed when its ruler is worthy and its leaders eat at the proper time for strength, not for drunken excess.
What Does Ecclesiastes 10:17 Mean?
In deliberate contrast to the previous woe, the Preacher pronounces a blessing. Here the king is the son of nobles, marked by noble character, and the princes eat in due season, for strength rather than indulgence. Self-control governs the table, and duty governs the day.
The difference between woe and blessing lies in discipline and purpose. Food taken for strength serves the work; food taken for drunkenness undoes it. The verse holds up a vision of leadership that is sober, timely, and devoted to the good of others, the kind of stewardship that lets a whole land thrive under God.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ecclesiastes 10:17
What does Ecclesiastes 10:17 mean?
A nation is blessed when its ruler is worthy and its leaders eat at the proper time for strength, not for drunken excess.