Ecclesiastes 3:18 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men, that God might manifest them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts. That they might see that they themselves are beasts - The author of Choheleth has given a correct view of this difficult verse, by a proper translation: "I said in my heart, reflecting on the state of the sons of men, O that God would enlighten them, and make them see that even they themselves are like beasts." These words are to be referred to those in authority who abused their power; particularly to the corrupt magistrates mentioned above.