◄ Ecclesiastes 8 ►
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Obey the King 1Who is like the wise man? Who knows the interpretation of a matter? A man’s wisdom brightens his face, and the sternness of his face is changed. 2Keep the king’s command, I say, because of your oath before God. 3Do not hasten to leave his presence, and do not persist in a bad cause, for he will do whatever he pleases. 4For the king’s word is supreme, and who can say to him, “What are you doing?” 5Whoever keeps his command will come to no harm, and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure. 6For there is a right time and procedure to every purpose, though a man’s misery weighs heavily upon him. 7Since no one knows what will happen, who can tell him what is to come? 8As no man has power over the wind to contain it, so no one has authority over his day of death. As no one can be discharged in wartime, so wickedness will not release those who practice it. 9All this I have seen, applying my mind to every deed that is done under the sun; there is a time when one man lords it over another to his own detriment. Fear God (Isaiah 8:11–15) 10Then too, I saw the burial of the wicked who used to go in and out of the holy place, and they were praiseda in the city where they had done so. This too is futile. 11When the sentence for a crime is not speedily executed, the hearts of men become fully set on doing evil. 12Although a sinner does evil a hundred times and still lives long, yet I also know that it will go well with those who fear God, who are reverent in His presence. 13Yet because the wicked do not fear God, it will not go well with them, and their days will not lengthen like a shadow. God’s Ways Are Mysterious 14There is a futility that is done on the earth: There are righteous men who get what the actions of the wicked deserve, and there are wicked men who get what the actions of the righteous deserve. I say that this too is futile. 15So I commended the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be merry. For this joy will accompany him in his labor during the days of his life that God gives him under the sun. 16When I applied my mind to know wisdom and to observe the task that one performs on the earth—though his eyes do not see sleep in the day or even in the night— 17I saw every work of God, and that a man is unable to comprehend the work that is done under the sun. Despite his efforts to search it out, he cannot find its meaning; even if the wise man claims to know, he is unable to comprehend. Footnotes: 10 a Some Hebrew manuscripts, LXX, and Vulgate; most Hebrew manuscripts were soon forgotten Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ecclesiastes 8 Summary God's Ways Are Mysterious Verse 1 – Radiance of Wisdom Who is like the person who has grasped God-given insight? Wisdom brightens the face and melts the hardness of life. Verses 2–9 – Living under Authority Because the king’s authority is established by God, the wise keep the royal command, wait for the right moment, and avoid rebellion. Power is real, yet it has limits that only God controls. Verses 10–13 – Delayed Justice, Certain Justice The wicked may be honored at their funerals and seem to get away with evil, but in the end it goes well only with those who fear God. Verses 14 – The Upside-Down World Sometimes the righteous receive what the wicked deserve and vice versa. The Teacher calls this frustrating and futile. Verses 15 – A Gift in the Meantime Since life’s puzzles remain, a man should gratefully enjoy food, drink, and gladness as God’s daily provision. Verses 16–17 – The Limits of Human Thought Even the sleepless researcher cannot track all God’s work. The wisest person must admit, “he cannot comprehend it.” Ecclesiastes 8 stands as a profound contemplation on the complexities of life, the intricate relationship between wisdom and authority, and the enduring enigma of righteousness and wickedness. This chapter subtly presents an exploration of human wisdom, it's potency and limitations, the challenging aspect of understanding life’s unpredictable patterns, and the ambiguous balance of divine justice. Authorship and Date Ecclesiastes speaks with the voice of “the son of David, king in Jerusalem” (1:1). Tradition places the book in Solomon’s later years, around the tenth century BC. The self-portrait fits a monarch with vast resources, international contacts, and a season of spiritual drift followed by sober reflection (1 Kings 11). The Setting of Monarchy Verse 2 assumes a palace environment where disloyalty could cost a life. Ancient Near Eastern records—Assyrian letters, Egyptian court tales—show that an order from the throne was treated as absolute. Israel’s kings held similar power, though Torah prophets reminded them that God stood higher (Deuteronomy 17:18–20). Wisdom Before Kings (8:2–9) • “Keep the king’s command” (v. 2). Compare Proverbs 24:21 and Romans 13:1–4: “There is no authority except from God.” • Yet verse 3 warns against joining a “bad matter.” When the king’s order clashes with God’s law, Acts 5:29 sets the limit: “We must obey God rather than men.” • “A wise heart knows the right time and procedure” (v. 5). Joseph (Genesis 41) and Daniel (Daniel 2) displayed this timing, presenting truth without needless offense. • The image in verse 8 of having “no power over the wind” (Hebrew ruach—wind, breath, or spirit) echoes John 3:8; the Spirit’s movement is free from human control. The Slowness of Judgment (8:10–13) • Funerals of the wicked in “the holy place” (v. 10) mirror modern scandals where evil is white-washed. • “The sentence for a crime is not swiftly carried out” (v. 11) parallels 2 Peter 3:9: “The Lord is not slow… but is patient, not wishing any to perish.” • The Teacher’s confidence: “It will be well with those who fear God” (v. 12) matches Psalm 37:18–19 and Malachi 3:16-18. The Puzzle of Reversal (8:14) Job felt it (“Why do the wicked live on?” Job 21:7). Habakkuk cried, “Why do You tolerate wrongdoing?” (Habakkuk 1:3). The answer is partial: God will set things right in His timing (Revelation 20:11-15). Enjoying God’s Present Gifts (8:15) The command to “eat, drink, and be merry” is not reckless hedonism. It calls for gratitude in everyday pleasures—meals, friendships, honest work. 1 Timothy 6:17 says God “richly provides us with everything to enjoy,” while warning against greed. The Boundaries of Knowledge (8:16–17) • Sleepless toil (v. 16) cannot pierce heaven’s mysteries. • Isaiah 55:8–9: “My thoughts are higher than your thoughts.” • Deuteronomy 29:29: “The secret things belong to the LORD our God.” The Teacher invites humility: learn what you can, trust God with what you can’t. Key Hebrew Words • ḥokmah—“wisdom,” skill for living in God’s world. • ruach—“wind/spirit,” power beyond human grip (v. 8). • hevel—“futility, vapor,” the book’s signature word; life under the sun is brief and elusive (James 4:14). Archaeological Background • Royal Commands: Neo-Assyrian tablets describe courtiers reading sealed decrees identical to the atmosphere of verse 3. • Burial Honors: Rock-cut tombs in Jerusalem’s Kidron Valley held wealthy officials; inscriptions sometimes praise men now forgotten, matching verse 10’s irony. • Military Conscription: “No discharge in time of war” (v. 8) recalls Assyrian stelae where soldiers were bound to serve until death. Threads through Scripture 1. Authority: Genesis 9:6; Titus 3:1. 2. Fear of God: Proverbs 1:7; Luke 12:4–5. 3. Delayed Justice: Psalm 73; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10. 4. Joyful Contentment: Psalm 104:14-15; Philippians 4:11-13. 5. Mystery of God’s Plan: Romans 11:33-36. Practical Takeaways • Respect legitimate authority, yet reserve ultimate obedience for God. • Don’t misread God’s patience as approval of sin. • When life’s outcomes look upside-down, remember the final judgment. • Receive daily pleasures—meals, laughter, rest—as gifts, not idols. • Accept the limits of your insight and worship the God whose wisdom has no limits. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 13:1-2 Reinforces the call to respect authority as instituted by God. Proverbs 3:5-6 Encourages trusting in the Lord with all your heart, leaning not on your own understanding. Psalm 37:7-9 Offers reassurance that God will act justly in His time, urging patience and trust. Philippians 4:4-7 Encourages rejoicing in the Lord always and finding peace through prayer. Teaching Points The Value of Wisdom Who is like the wise man? And who knows the interpretation of a matter? A man’s wisdom brightens his face, and the sternness of his face is changed (Ecclesiastes 8:1). Wisdom is portrayed as a transformative force that enlightens and softens one's demeanor. Respect for Authority Keep the king’s command, I say, because of your oath before God (Ecclesiastes 8:2). The passage emphasizes the importance of respecting authority as part of our duty to God, recognizing that all authority is ultimately under His control. The Mystery of Justice There is a time when a man lords it over others to his own detriment (Ecclesiastes 8:9). The text acknowledges the reality of injustice and the misuse of power, yet it also hints at the eventual downfall of those who abuse their authority. The Enigma of Life's Outcomes There is something else futile on earth: righteous men who get what the wicked deserve, and wicked men who get what the righteous deserve (Ecclesiastes 8:14). This verse highlights the apparent contradictions in life, urging us to trust in God's ultimate justice. Joy Amidst Uncertainty So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad (Ecclesiastes 8:15). Despite life's mysteries, the Preacher encourages finding joy in the simple pleasures God provides. Practical Applications Seek Wisdom Pursue wisdom through prayer, study, and reflection, allowing it to guide your actions and attitudes. Honor Authority Respect and pray for those in positions of authority, recognizing their role in God's plan. Trust in God's Justice When faced with injustice, remember that God sees all and will bring about true justice in His time. Find Joy in the Present Embrace the blessings of today, finding contentment and joy in the simple gifts of life. People 1. The Wise Man Ecclesiastes 8:1 begins with a rhetorical question about the wise man, highlighting the value of wisdom. The wise man is described as having a brightened face and softened countenance, indicating the transformative power of wisdom. The Hebrew word for wise, "חָכָם" (chakam), emphasizes skill and discernment. 2. The King In Ecclesiastes 8:2-4, the king is mentioned as a figure of authority whose command should be obeyed. The passage advises keeping the king's command because of the oath before God, reflecting the importance of respecting authority. The Hebrew word for king, "מֶלֶךְ" (melek), signifies a ruler or sovereign. 3. The Wicked Ecclesiastes 8:10-13 discusses the fate of the wicked, noting that although they may receive praise in the city, their deeds are ultimately futile. The wicked are contrasted with those who fear God. The Hebrew word for wicked, "רָשָׁע" (rasha), denotes someone guilty or morally wrong. 4. Those Who Fear God In contrast to the wicked, Ecclesiastes 8:12-13 speaks of those who fear God, suggesting that it will go well with them. The fear of God is associated with reverence and obedience. The Hebrew word for fear, "יָרֵא" (yare), implies awe and respect. 5. The Sinner Ecclesiastes 8:12 mentions the sinner, whose days may be prolonged despite their evil deeds. This reflects the theme of apparent injustice in the world. The Hebrew word for sinner, "חָטָא" (chata), refers to one who misses the mark or commits an offense. Places 1. The King's Presence The chapter begins with advice on how to behave in the presence of a king, emphasizing wisdom and obedience (Ecclesiastes 8:2-4). The Hebrew root for "king" (מֶלֶךְ, melek) signifies authority and power, a place of influence and decision-making. 2. The Place of Judgment Ecclesiastes 8:5-6 discusses the importance of timing and judgment, suggesting a metaphorical place where decisions are made and consequences are determined. The Hebrew word for "judgment" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) implies a setting where justice is administered. 3. The Wicked's Burial Place In Ecclesiastes 8:10, there is a mention of the wicked being buried, which can be seen as a literal place of burial but also a metaphorical place of finality and forgotten deeds. The Hebrew root for "burial" (קָבוּר, qavur) indicates a place of rest or end. 4. The Place of Vanity Throughout the chapter, the concept of vanity or meaninglessness (הֶבֶל, hebel) is a recurring theme, representing a place of existential reflection and the futility of human endeavors. 5. The Place of Uncertainty Ecclesiastes 8:7-8 speaks to the uncertainty of the future and the limits of human control, a conceptual place where one confronts the unknown and the inevitability of death. Events 1. Wisdom's Illumination The chapter begins by highlighting the value of wisdom. "Who is like the wise man? And who knows the interpretation of a matter? A man’s wisdom brightens his face, and the sternness of his face is changed" (Ecclesiastes 8:1). The Hebrew word for wisdom here is "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), emphasizing practical and ethical understanding. 2. Obedience to the King The text advises obedience to the king's command: "Keep the king’s command, I say, because of your oath before God" (Ecclesiastes 8:2). This reflects the importance of respecting authority, rooted in the Hebrew concept of "שָׁמַר" (shamar), meaning to keep or guard. 3. The Unpredictability of Life The unpredictability of life and the limits of human control are discussed: "No man has power over the wind to contain it; so no one has power over the day of his death" (Ecclesiastes 8:8). The Hebrew word for wind, "רוּחַ" (ruach), also means spirit, indicating the uncontrollable nature of life and death. 4. Injustice in the World The Preacher observes the prevalence of injustice: "There is a futility that is done on the earth: there are righteous men who get what the wicked deserve, and wicked men who get what the righteous deserve" (Ecclesiastes 8:14). This reflects the Hebrew term "הֶבֶל" (hebel), often translated as vanity or futility. 5. Joy Amidst Vanity Despite life's vanities, the text encourages finding joy: "So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad" (Ecclesiastes 8:15). The Hebrew root "שָׂמַח" (samach) for joy emphasizes a deep, abiding gladness. 6. The Limits of Human Understanding The chapter concludes with the acknowledgment of the limits of human understanding: "When I applied my mind to know wisdom and to observe the activity that is done on the earth... then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 8:16-17). The Hebrew word "יָדַע" (yada) for know underscores the depth and complexity of divine wisdom beyond human grasp. Lessons from Ecclesiastes 8 1. The Wisdom of Obedience In Ecclesiastes 8:1, we are reminded of the transformative power of wisdom: "Who is like the wise man? And who knows the interpretation of a matter? A man’s wisdom brightens his face, and the sternness of his face is changed." Wisdom, rooted in obedience to God, not only enlightens our understanding but also reflects in our demeanor. By aligning our actions with God's will, we experience a profound inner peace that radiates outward, making us a beacon of light in a world often shrouded in darkness. 2. Respect for Authority Verse 2 advises, "Keep the king’s command, I say, because of your oath before God." This is a call to respect and honor those in authority, recognizing that their power is ultimately granted by God. By submitting to earthly authorities, we demonstrate our trust in God's sovereign plan, knowing that He is in control of all things. This respect fosters a harmonious society and reflects our commitment to living out our faith in practical ways. 3. The Timing of Actions Ecclesiastes 8:5-6 teaches us about the importance of timing: "Whoever obeys his command will come to no harm, and a wise heart will know the right time and procedure. For there is a right time and procedure for every matter, though a man’s misery weighs heavily upon him." Understanding the right moment to act is crucial. By seeking God's guidance, we can discern the appropriate time for every action, ensuring that our efforts are both effective and aligned with His purposes. 4. The Mystery of Life Verse 7 reminds us of the limitations of human understanding: "Since no one knows what will happen, who can tell him what is to come?" Life is full of uncertainties, but this should not lead to despair. Instead, it encourages us to place our trust in God, who holds the future. By acknowledging our limitations, we learn to rely on His infinite wisdom and find peace in His perfect plan. 5. The Inevitability of Death Ecclesiastes 8:8 states, "As no man has power over the wind to contain it, so no one has power over the day of his death." This verse serves as a sobering reminder of our mortality. However, for believers, it is also a call to live purposefully, knowing that our time on earth is limited. By focusing on eternal values and living each day for God's glory, we prepare ourselves for the life to come. 6. The Injustice of the Wicked In verse 9, we read about the apparent success of the wicked: "All this I have seen as I applied my mind to everything done under the sun, when one man lords it over another to his own harm." While it may seem that injustice prevails, we are assured that God is just and will ultimately right all wrongs. This encourages us to maintain our integrity and trust in His righteous judgment. 7. The Futility of Wickedness Verse 10 highlights the fleeting nature of wickedness: "Then too, I saw the wicked buried—those who used to come and go from the holy place and receive praise in the city where they did this. This too is futile." The temporary success of the wicked is ultimately meaningless. By focusing on righteousness and eternal rewards, we find true fulfillment and purpose. 8. The Patience of God Ecclesiastes 8:11 reveals God's patience: "When the sentence for a crime is not quickly carried out, the hearts of the people are filled with schemes to do wrong." God's delay in judgment is not a sign of indifference but of His mercy, giving people time to repent. This patience should inspire us to extend grace to others and to share the message of salvation with urgency. 9. The Reward of Righteousness Verse 12 offers hope: "Although a sinner does evil a hundred times and may lengthen his life, yet I know that it will go well with those who fear God, who are reverent before Him." The ultimate reward for righteousness is not always visible in this life, but we are assured of God's favor and eternal blessings. This promise motivates us to persevere in faithfulness, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. 10. The Joy of Contentment Finally, Ecclesiastes 8:15 encourages us to find joy in the simple pleasures of life: "So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany him in his work all the days of the life God has given him under the sun." Contentment is a gift from God, allowing us to appreciate His blessings and find satisfaction in our daily lives. By cultivating a heart of gratitude, we experience the fullness of joy that comes from living in His presence. Topics 1. Wisdom and Authority (Ecclesiastes 8:1-2) The chapter begins by highlighting the value of wisdom, stating, "Who is like the wise man? And who knows the interpretation of a matter?" (Ecclesiastes 8:1). The Hebrew word for wisdom here is "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), emphasizing practical and ethical understanding. The passage also advises obedience to the king's command, reflecting the importance of respecting authority. 2. The Unpredictability of Life (Ecclesiastes 8:3-7) These verses discuss the limitations of human control over life events. The text advises not to "stand up for a bad cause" (Ecclesiastes 8:3) and acknowledges that no one can predict the future, as "no one knows what will happen" (Ecclesiastes 8:7). The Hebrew root "יָדַע" (yada) for "know" underscores the theme of human limitation in understanding God's plans. 3. The Inevitability of Death (Ecclesiastes 8:8) The passage states, "No man has power over the wind to contain it; so no one has power over the day of his death" (Ecclesiastes 8:8). This highlights the inevitability of death and the lack of human control over it. The Hebrew word "רוּחַ" (ruach) for "wind" can also mean "spirit," suggesting the uncontrollable nature of life and death. 4. The Injustice in the World (Ecclesiastes 8:9-14) The Preacher observes the prevalence of injustice, noting that "the wicked are buried, and those who used to go in and out of the holy place are soon forgotten" (Ecclesiastes 8:10). The text reflects on the apparent prosperity of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous, questioning the fairness of life. 5. The Call to Fear God (Ecclesiastes 8:15-17) The chapter concludes with a call to enjoy life and fear God, as "a man can do nothing better under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad" (Ecclesiastes 8:15). The Hebrew word "יִרְאָה" (yirah) for "fear" implies reverence and awe towards God. The passage acknowledges that human understanding is limited, and ultimately, God's ways are beyond comprehension. Themes 1. Wisdom and Authority Ecclesiastes 8:1 discusses the value of wisdom, stating, "Who is like the wise man? And who knows the interpretation of a matter?" The Hebrew word for "wise" (חָכָם, chakam) emphasizes skill and discernment, highlighting the transformative power of wisdom in understanding and interpreting life's complexities. 2. Obedience to Kings Verses 2-5 emphasize the importance of obeying authority: "Keep the king’s command, I say, because of your oath before God." The Hebrew term for "command" (מִצְוָה, mitzvah) underscores the binding nature of royal decrees, reflecting a divine order in governance. 3. The Unpredictability of Life Ecclesiastes 8:6-7 speaks to the uncertainty of life: "For there is a right time and procedure for every purpose, though a man’s misery weighs heavily upon him." The Hebrew root for "misery" (רָעָה, ra'ah) conveys distress, illustrating the burdens of human existence amidst life's unpredictability. 4. Limitations of Human Understanding Verse 8 highlights human limitations: "No man has power over the wind to contain it; so no one has power over the day of his death." The Hebrew word for "power" (שָׁלִיט, shalit) indicates control, emphasizing humanity's lack of control over life and death. 5. Injustice in the World Ecclesiastes 8:9-10 addresses the prevalence of injustice: "All this I have seen as I applied my mind to everything done under the sun. There is a time when a man lords it over others to his own harm." The Hebrew term for "harm" (רָעָה, ra'ah) again highlights the negative consequences of oppressive rule. 6. The Fate of the Wicked and the Righteous Verses 11-13 discuss the apparent prosperity of the wicked: "When the sentence for a crime is not speedily executed, the hearts of men become fully set on doing evil." The Hebrew word for "evil" (רָע, ra) underscores moral corruption, contrasting the eventual divine justice that awaits. 7. The Joy of Life Ecclesiastes 8:15 encourages finding joy: "So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad." The Hebrew root for "enjoyment" (שִׂמְחָה, simchah) suggests a deep, abiding joy that transcends life's fleeting nature. 8. The Incomprehensibility of God's Work Verses 16-17 conclude with the mystery of God's work: "Then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun." The Hebrew word for "comprehend" (מָצָא, matsa) implies discovery or understanding, highlighting the divine mystery beyond human grasp. Prayer Points For Wisdom Pray for God to grant you wisdom and understanding in all areas of life. For Leaders Lift up leaders and authorities, asking God to guide them in righteousness and justice. For Trust in God's Plan Ask for faith to trust in God's timing and justice, even when circumstances seem unfair. For Joy and Contentment Pray for a heart that finds joy and contentment in the daily blessings God provides. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Ecclesiastes 8:8, does the statement that no one can control the wind conflict with modern meteorological science and technology? 2. Ecclesiastes 8:12–13 implies that the wicked might sometimes prosper; how does that align with other biblical promises of divine justice? 3. Ecclesiastes 8:5 states that the wise person knows when and how to act; is there archaeological or historical evidence supporting such definite wisdom teachings in this era? 4. Does the author’s emphasis on the limitation of human understanding in Ecclesiastes 8:16–17 conflict with other biblical texts that claim revelations of divine mysteries? 5. Could the portrayal of authority and submission in Ecclesiastes 8:2–4 be at odds with historical records of Israelite governance, suggesting a possible later editorial influence? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Ecclesiastes 8 teach us about the limitations of human wisdom? 2. How does this chapter illuminate the biblical view of authority and obedience? 3. Reflect on the paradox of the righteous receiving what the wicked deserve and vice versa. How does this challenge or reinforce your understanding of divine justice? 4. What is the significance of the statement "Even a wise man cannot discover what has been done"? 5. How does Ecclesiastes 8 suggest we deal with the uncertainties and paradoxes of life? 6. How can the advice given in Ecclesiastes 8 be applied to contemporary societal attitudes towards authority? 7. What does the instruction not to "rush out of the king’s presence" or "persist in an evil matter" tell us about the importance of discernment in our actions? 8. How can the wisdom presented in Ecclesiastes 8 be applied to your personal life? 9. How does the chapter balance the acknowledgment of life's hardships with the encouragement to enjoy life? 10. How does Ecclesiastes 8 reconcile the existence of evil and the goodness of God? 11. How do the teachings in this chapter influence your understanding of the concept of divine timing? 12. How do these verses inform your understanding of our inability to fully comprehend God’s ways? 13. How might you apply the idea of respecting and obeying authority in today's democratic and egalitarian contexts? 14. How does Ecclesiastes 8 encourage a practical approach to the mysteries and uncertainties of life? 15. How does the principle of respecting oaths before God, as discussed in this chapter, relate to your personal commitments and responsibilities? 16. What insights does Ecclesiastes 8 provide on managing our expectations of justice in this life? 17. How can we find joy in the simple pleasures of life, as Ecclesiastes 8 suggests, amidst modern life's complexities and pressures? 18. How can the observations of Ecclesiastes 8 guide us in responding to apparent injustices we encounter in our lives? 19. How does the notion that we cannot predict when hard times might come influence your planning and expectations for the future? 20. Given Ecclesiastes 8's teachings on life's uncertainty, paradoxes, and the enigma of God's work, how might this influence your daily life and decision-making processes? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions