The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.
The words of wise people are like cattle prods that motivate you to action, and like nails hammered securely in place by skilled craftsmen. These wise sayings all come from one shepherd.
The writer is saying that wise words both motivate us to move forward and provide solid, unchanging truths—and ultimately, all true wisdom comes from God.
📚 Historical Context
This verse comes near the end of Ecclesiastes, where the Teacher (traditionally Solomon) is concluding his observations about life's meaning. In ancient times, goads were sharp sticks used to direct cattle, and skilled craftsmen would drive nails firmly to create lasting structures. The 'one shepherd' likely refers to God as the ultimate source of all wisdom.
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