Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time?
Don't be extremely wicked, and don't be foolish: why should you die before your natural time?
The writer is warning that extreme wickedness and foolishness can lead to an early death, so it's wise to avoid both.
📚 Historical Context
Ecclesiastes is a book of wisdom literature in the Old Testament, traditionally attributed to King Solomon, who reflects on the meaninglessness of life without God amid the challenges of ancient Israelite society. This verse appears in a section advising moderation in behavior, warning that extreme wickedness or foolishness could lead to premature death, which was a common concern in a culture where personal choices often had immediate and severe consequences. It fits into the broader biblical narrative of seeking wisdom to navigate life's vanities during times of prosperity and moral temptation in ancient Israel.
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