Ecclesiastes 8:13 net — But it will not go well with the wicked, nor will they prolong their days like a shadow, because they do not stand in f…

NET Bible

"But it will not go well with the wicked, nor will they prolong their days like a shadow, because they do not stand in fear before God."

— Ecclesiastes 8:13, NET Bible

Read in Another Translation

5 of 21 translations

Ecclesiastes 8:13 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Ecclesiastes 8 — Context

10

Contradictions to the Law of Retribution Not only that, but I have seen the wicked approaching and entering the temple, and as they left the holy temple, they boasted in the city that they had done so. This also is an enigma.

11

When a sentence is not executed at once against a crime, the human heart is encouraged to do evil.

12

Even though a sinner might commit a hundred crimes and still live a long time, yet I know that it will go well with God-fearing people– for they stand in fear before him.

13

But it will not go well with the wicked, nor will they prolong their days like a shadow, because they do not stand in fear before God.

14

Here is another enigma that occurs on earth: Sometimes there are righteous people who get what the wicked deserve, and sometimes there are wicked people who get what the righteous deserve. I said,“This also is an enigma.”

15

Enjoy Life In Spite of Its Injustices So I recommend the enjoyment of life, for there is nothing better on earth for a person to do except to eat, drink, and enjoy life. So joy will accompany him in his toil during the days of his life which God gives him on earth.

16

Limitations of Human Wisdom When I tried to gain wisdom and to observe the activity on earth– even though it prevents anyone from sleeping day or night–

Ecclesiastes 8:13 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Ecclesiastes 8:13 say?
Ecclesiastes 8:13 in the NET Bible reads: “But it will not go well with the wicked, nor will they prolong their days like a shadow, because they do not stand in fear before God.”
Where is Ecclesiastes 8:13 in the Bible?
Ecclesiastes 8:13 is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Ecclesiastes, chapter 8, verse 13.
Who wrote Ecclesiastes?
Ecclesiastes is traditionally attributed to Solomon (traditional; identified as "the Preacher, son of David"). It was written c. 940 BC.
What is the book of Ecclesiastes about?
Ecclesiastes is a candid meditation on life "under the sun" — its pleasures, its pains, and its apparent vanity. The Preacher tries wisdom, wealth, work, and pleasure, finds them all empty without God, and concludes that fearing God and keeping his commandments is the whole of man.
What are the major themes of Ecclesiastes?
Ecclesiastes explores themes including Vanity, Time, Meaning, Fear of God, Mortality. These themes shape the meaning and context of Ecclesiastes 8:13.
What translation should I read Ecclesiastes 8:13 in?
Ecclesiastes 8:13 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Ecclesiastes 8:13?
Ecclesiastes 8:13 reads (NET): “But it will not go well with the wicked, nor will they prolong their days like a shadow, because they do not stand in fear before God.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
GodsGoodBook logo

GodsGoodBook

Making God's Word accessible to everyone

Experience the Bible like never before with multiple translations, powerful search tools, and features to make God's Word personal to you. Completely free, forever.

Features

15+ Bible Translations
Powerful Search Tools
Highlight & Annotate
Share Verses
100% Free Forever
© 2025 GodsGoodBookVersion 1.8.2