Ecclesiastes 7:21 Meaning and Explanation
“Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Do not strain to hear everything people say, or you may overhear even your own servant speaking against you.
What Does Ecclesiastes 7:21 Mean?
Having admitted that all people sin, the Preacher offers gentle, practical counsel about words. We need not weigh every remark made about us; doing so only wounds us with things never meant for our ears.
Listening too closely for criticism breeds suspicion and pain — even a trusted servant might be caught speaking ill. Wisdom lets many words pass. Since we ourselves are not free of careless speech, as the next verse admits, we extend the same grace we need, and guard our peace by not chasing after every whisper.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ecclesiastes 7:21
What does Ecclesiastes 7:21 mean?
Do not strain to hear everything people say, or you may overhear even your own servant speaking against you.