🌀WEB · Ecclesiastes 3:15

What does Ecclesiastes 3:15 mean?

"That which is has been long ago, and that which is to be has been long ago: and God seeks again that which is passed away."

— Ecclesiastes 3:15 (World English Bible)

Surrounding context

12

I know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice, and to do good as long as they live.

13

Also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy good in all his labor, is the gift of God.

14

I know that whatever God does, it shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it; and God has done it, that men should fear before him.

15

That which is has been long ago, and that which is to be has been long ago: and God seeks again that which is passed away.

16

Moreover I saw under the sun, in the place of justice, that wickedness was there; and in the place of righteousness, that wickedness was there.

17

I said in my heart, “God will judge the righteous and the wicked; for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work.”

18

I said in my heart, “As for the sons of men, God tests them, so that they may see that they themselves are like animals.

A full explanation for this verse is coming soon. In the meantime, you can ask our AI about Ecclesiastes 3:15 directly — it will give you a detailed answer grounded in the actual text.

Compare translations

Go deeper with ScriptureCompanion AI

Ask questions about any verse, follow reading plans, write personal prayers, and track your daily habit — all grounded in verified scripture text.