Ecclesiastes 7:4
Translations
King James Version (KJV)
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
American King James Version (AKJV)
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
American Standard Version (ASV)
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
Basic English Translation (BBE)
The hearts of the wise are in the house of weeping; but the hearts of the foolish are in the house of joy.
Webster's Revision
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
World English Bible
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
English Revised Version (ERV)
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.
Definitions for Ecclesiastes 7:4
Clarke's Ecclesiastes 7:4 Bible Commentary
The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning - A wise man loves those occasions from which he can derive spiritual advantage; and therefore prefers visiting the sick, and sympathizing with those who have suffered privations by death. But the fool - the gay, thoughtless, and giddy - prefers places and times of diversion and amusement. Here he is prevented from seriously considering either himself or his latter end. The grand fault and misfortune of youth.
Barnes's Ecclesiastes 7:4 Bible Commentary
House of mourning ... house of mirth - These phrases acquire a forcible significance from the Eastern custom of prolonging both festive and mournful celebrations through several days. See Genesis 50:10; Judges 14:17. This verse indicates that a life of enjoyment, does not mean the abandonment of ourselves to pleasures, but the thankful and sober use of the beautiful things which God gives us.
Wesley's Ecclesiastes 7:4 Bible Commentary
7:4 The wise - Are constantly meditating upon serious things.