Ecclesiastes 7:3
Translations
King James Version (KJV)
Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better.
American King James Version (AKJV)
Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better.
American Standard Version (ASV)
Sorrow is better than laughter; for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made glad.
Basic English Translation (BBE)
Sorrow is better than joy; when the face is sad the mind gets better.
Webster's Revision
Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better.
World English Bible
Sorrow is better than laughter; for by the sadness of the face the heart is made good.
English Revised Version (ERV)
Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made glad.
Definitions for Ecclesiastes 7:3
Clarke's Ecclesiastes 7:3 Bible Commentary
Sorrow is better than laughter - The reason is immediately given; for by the sorrow of the countenance - the grief of heart that shows itself in the countenance: -
The heart is made better - In such cases, most men try themselves at the tribunal of their own consciences, and resolve on amendment of life.
Barnes's Ecclesiastes 7:3 Bible Commentary
Sorrow - Rather, Seriousness.
The heart is made better - i. e., is made bright and joyful (compare 2 Corinthians 6:10). The mind which bears itself equally in human concerns, whether they be pleasant or sorrowful, must always be glad, free, and at peace.
