Ecclesiastes 7:24 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

That which is far off, and exceeding deep, who can find it out? That which is far off ... Hengstenberg translates, 'Far off is that which is;' i:e., wisdom's aim, absolute being. Wisdom is "exceeding deep" when sought independently of 'fear of God' (Ecclesiastes 7:18; Deuteronomy 30:12-13; Job 11:7-8; Job 28:12-20; Romans 10:6-7). Hengstenberg compares in his view Ecclesiastes 3:11; Ecclesiastes 8:17; Job 11:8; Romans 11:33. The position of the Hebrew words is against the English version. Practical wisdom, or what man has to do, is no longer far off (Deuteronomy 30:11; Deuteronomy 30:14). But the deeper understanding of God's providence and dealings on earth is dark, through our indwelling sin.