Ecclesiastes 10:15

The labour of the foolish wearieth every one of them, because he knoweth not how to go to the city.

Ecclesiastes 10:15 (KJV)

Context

Ecclesiastes, traditionally ascribed to King Solomon, reflects on the meaning and purpose of life. It addresses the vanity of human pursuits, the certainty of death, and the value of finding joy in work and relationships. In the surrounding passage, the wise speak with favor, while fools begin with foolishness and end in wicked madness. They talk endlessly, yet no one knows the future. Verse 15 gives the outcome: the labor of fools wearies them, and they do not even know the way to town.

Meaning

“The foolish” are those who lack wisdom, discernment, and prudence. Their work is not necessarily lazy; they may expend great effort. But because it is misdirected and lacks understanding, it is vain and fruitless. This wearisome labor burdens not only themselves but also those who have any concern with them.

The phrase “he knoweth not how to go to the city” is a proverb for a basic, obvious task. The road to a city is broad, plain, and easy to find, yet the fool cannot find it. This shows that the fool is so lacking in practical wisdom that he fails even at the simplest and most essential matters. Wisdom is not merely intellectual; it is needed for the ordinary tasks of life.

Biblical connections

Scripture teaches that true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). Wisdom is a gift from God that enables a person to live skillfully. James 1:5 encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, who gives it generously. This connection shows that wisdom is not self-made but received from God.

Application

This verse warns against self-reliance and the pride of human effort apart from God. It calls us to examine our own work: Are our efforts guided by godly wisdom, or are they merely busyness that leads to exhaustion? We should seek wisdom from God so that our labor is not wasted but is done in a way that honors Him and benefits others.

Reflection

Fools exhaust themselves in futile efforts because they do not apply wisdom to their daily path. The way of wisdom is clear and plain for those who seek it. We are invited to walk in that path with humility, learning from God’s Word and trusting Him to guide our steps.