Ecclesiastes 7:16 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

Be not righteous over much; neither make thyself over wise: why shouldest thou destroy thyself ?

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

Don't be overly righteous, and don't try to be too wise - why would you want to destroy yourself?

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

The writer is warning against becoming so extreme in righteousness or wisdom that it becomes harmful to yourself.

📚 Historical Context

This verse comes from Ecclesiastes, traditionally attributed to King Solomon, who was reflecting on life's complexities and paradoxes. In ancient Israel, there was a cultural tension between pursuing righteousness and wisdom (highly valued virtues) while avoiding the pride and self-destruction that could come from taking these virtues to unhealthy extremes. Solomon had witnessed how even good things, when pursued excessively, could lead to spiritual pride or legalistic behavior that missed the heart of true faith.

←

PreviousEcclesiastes 7:15

NextEcclesiastes 7:17

→

Explore Similar Verses

Ezekiel 33:18

When someone who's been doing right starts choosing wrong and gets into destructive stuff, those choices will literally destroy them.

Habakkuk 1:13

You're too pure to even look at evil — it's literally not in your nature to watch wrong things happen. So why are you just watching these backstabbers get away with everything? Why aren't you saying anything when evil people are destroying those who are actually trying to do right?

1 Timothy 6:11

But you — you're God's person — run from all that toxic stuff. Instead, chase after what's right, living close to God, having faith, showing love, staying patient, and keeping a humble heart.

Ask the AI Assistant

Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.

Share or Save

📚 Historical Context

Explore Similar Verses

Ask the AI Assistant

Translation & Methodology Sources