The fool, to wit, in these matters. Both are equally subject to the same calamities, and partakers of the same comforts of this life. Before the living, to wit, before the poor, that doth not know this; which words are easily understood by comparing this clause with the former. And such defects are usual, both in Scripture and other authors, as hath been formerly noted, by a figure which the learned call anantapodoton. And by this phrase, that knoweth, &c., he means such a poor man who is ingenious and industrious; who is fit for service and business, and knows how to carry himself towards rich men, so as to deserve and gain their favour, and to procure a livelihood.
Related Commentaries of Ecclesiastes 6:8
Ecclesiastes 6:8
8 For what hath the wise more than the fool? what hath the poor, that knoweth to walk before the living?