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11 The words of the wise are like iron-tipped prods;
    the collected sayings of the masters
        are like nails fixed firmly by a shepherd.[a]
12     Be careful, my child, of anything beyond them!

There’s no end to the excessive production of scrolls. Studying too much wearies the body. 13 So this is the end of the matter; all has been heard. Worship God and keep God’s commandments because this is what everyone must do.

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Footnotes

  1. Ecclesiastes 12:11 Or fixed by one shepherd

11 The words of the wise are like goads, their collected sayings like firmly embedded nails(A)—given by one shepherd.[a] 12 Be warned, my son, of anything in addition to them.

Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.(B)

13 Now all has been heard;
    here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God(C) and keep his commandments,(D)
    for this is the duty of all mankind.(E)

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Footnotes

  1. Ecclesiastes 12:11 Or Shepherd