NET Bible
"The words of the sages are like prods, and the collected sayings are like firmly fixed nails; they are given by one shepherd."
— Ecclesiastes 12:11, NET Bible
“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 the wise are as goads; and as nails well fastened are the words of the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd. ”
“The words of the wise are like goads; and like nails well fastened are words from the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.”
“The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails deeply fastened in, which by the counsel of masters are given from one shepherd.”
“The words of the wise are pointed, and sayings grouped together are like nails fixed with a hammer; they are given by one guide.”
“The words of the wise are as goads, and as nails fastened by the masters of assemblies, which are given from one shepherd.”
Concluding Refrain: Qoheleth Restates His Thesis“Absolutely futile!” laments the Teacher,“All of these things are futile!”
Concluding Epilogue: Qoheleth’s Advice is Wise Not only was the Teacher wise, but he also taught knowledge to the people; he carefully evaluated and arranged many proverbs.
The Teacher sought to find delightful words, and to write accurately truthful sayings.
The words of the sages are like prods, and the collected sayings are like firmly fixed nails; they are given by one shepherd.
Concluding Exhortation: Fear God and Obey His Commands! Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them. There is no end to the making of many books, and much study is exhausting to the body.
Having heard everything, I have reached this conclusion: Fear God and keep his commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.
For God will evaluate every deed, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.