What does Ecclesiastes 10:20 mean when it says, “Do not curse the king, even in your thoughts”?

What does Ecclesiastes 10:20 mean when it says, “Do not curse the king, even in your thoughts”?

Ecclesiastes 10:20
“Do not curse the king, even in your thoughts; do not curse the rich in your bedroom, because a bird of the air will carry your voice, and a bird with wings will report what you say.”

Explanation:
It’s important to remember that the author of this passage was a king himself. He knew the wisdom of what he was writing and shared it as a warning for us. He had likely experienced secret plots, hypocritical words, or insults spoken in private against him. Yet, despite the secrecy, all of these schemes reached him quickly, often faster than the plotters expected. Naturally, those plotting were left wondering: Who could have revealed our secrets? And they had no answers.

Why does this happen?
Every government, especially a kingdom, has systems of protection—both visible and hidden. Anything planned in secret against it will eventually be discovered. That’s why the text warns: “Do not curse, even in your thoughts, or in your private room.” Even private thoughts can betray you because the heart often reveals itself before actions are taken.

The “rich” mentioned in the verse often refers to the king’s officials, ministers, or wealthy governors. Attempting to act against them in secret is futile, because your plans will reach them. The author illustrates this with the example of birds: “For a bird of the air will carry your voice, and a bird with wings will report what you say.” Just as birds can travel quickly and without barriers, so your words and secrets will reach those in authority, contrary to your expectations.

A historical example is found during the reign of King Ahasuerus. Two men secretly plotted to assassinate him, but their plan was revealed to the king through Mordecai, the gatekeeper, and the conspirators were executed immediately (Esther 2:21-23).

The takeaway:
No secret can remain hidden from those in authority.

As believers, we recognize that we have the King of kings, Jesus Christ, before whom all people will one day stand. We must never act in secret or plot against His kingdom. Everything will be revealed on the final day of judgment.

Jesus Himself said:

Luke 12:2-3
“There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you whispered in private will be proclaimed from the rooftops.”

So, when serving in God’s work, be extremely careful with your words and thoughts. Resist impulses that may lead you to blaspheme, rebel, or speak against others. Serve the Lord faithfully, knowing that everything is seen by Him—nothing is hidden.

A personal reflection:
Are you truly in Christ? Do you understand that these are critical times, and Jesus is at the door, ready to take His church? How are you living your life? If you were to die today, whose presence would you face? Turn from sin, dedicate yourself to the Lord, and serve Him faithfully in the short time we have. The gain of the whole world is meaningless if it costs your soul.

If you are ready to do this today, begin with a guided prayer of repentance >>>> GUIDED PRAYER OF REPENTANCE

May the Lord bless you abundantly.

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