Ecclesiastes 7:21Also don't take heed to all words that are spoken, lest you hear your servant curse you;
The setting
Jerusalem, ~935 BC. Solomon's palace with dozens of servants. The king reflects on palace intrigue and the danger of listening to every conversation.
The emotion here: amused understanding from years of palace politics and human observation
The original word
qālal (קלל) — to treat lightly, curse, or speak disparagingly
Why it matters
Ancient servants often criticized masters behind their backs—it was how powerless people coped with difficult situations
Read with care
What most readers miss in Ecclesiastes 7:21
The example isn't random—servants cursing masters shows how even dependent people will criticize those they rely on
Common misconceptionPeople think this means ignore all criticism. But Solomon is warning against eavesdropping and seeking out every negative thing said about you—that's self-torture.
The thread continues
Verses that echo Ecclesiastes 7:21
Bible Genome reading
Ecclesiastes 7:21 — Bible Genome reading
Emotional genome
Ecclesiastes 7:21 comes from the book of Ecclesiastes, written during the United Kingdom period. These words are attributed to Solomon. The dominant emotion in this verse is growing, with a comfort power of 50% and a tone that is reflective. It belongs to the wisdom genre of biblical literature. Key themes include wisdom in relationships, selective listening. Notable phrases: don't take heed to all words; hear your servant curse you. This verse contains a command.
Emotionally similar
Verses that meet the same growing
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
— Proverbs 22:6
“So faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
— Romans 10:17
“He must increase, but I must decrease.”
— John 3:30
“Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
— Galatians 6:2
“He believed in Yahweh; and he reckoned it to him for righteousness.”
— Genesis 15:6
Your reflection
What does Ecclesiastes 7:21 mean to you, today?
A short note. A question. A prayer. Saved privately to your Soul Garden, dated, and tied to this verse forever.
Speak your heart →Get 3 verses for "growing"
Delivered to your inbox right now. Free.