The repetition of the phrase time and way in this verse indicates its close relationship with verse 5.

For is an important discourse marker. It indicates that the verse gives the justification for what was described in verse 5. We can note here that both this verse and verse 7 consist of two clauses, each introduced in Hebrew by the particle ki “for.”

Every matter has its time and way: in 3.1 Qoheleth pointed out that every matter occurred at its appropriate time. On matter refer to comments on 3.1. The phrase used here is almost identical to that of 3.1. Thus Qoheleth reminds readers that, whatever happens, it occurs at an appropriate time. This comment provides a basis for the claim that the wise know what to do and when to do it. The wise person is aware that there is an appropriate moment for every action. On time and way see comments in verse 5. The meaning here can be given as “For there is an appropriate time and reason for whatever happens.”

Although man’s trouble lies heavy upon him: this second clause also begins with the particle ki, this time translated as although, “but” (Good News Translation). The point being made here is that people face many difficulties despite knowing when to act. Qoheleth describes this burden as man’s trouble. The Hebrew term rendered trouble carries its usual meaning in Qoheleth, namely, some “calamity” or “painful situation.” And as usual man’s refers to people in general. The Hebrew text here is literally “for trouble of the man great upon him.” Thus the pain and trouble that people meet in their daily lives is likened to a heavy load (literally “much is upon him”). This picture of trouble “lying” on a person may be difficult to express. Perhaps an idiomatic expression referring to trouble as a “heavy load we carry” is more appropriate. We can also say “but people have to cope with many serious problems” or “but people have to endure great pain.”

Good News Translation offers the following: “but we know so little!” It is difficult to justify this translation. Jerusalem Bible “a man runs grave risks” seems to say that the times themselves are somehow a threat. Neither is a very appropriate model.

For translation we offer the following as a model:

• For there is a time and a reason for everything, but people have to endure many painful situations.

Quoted with permission from Ogden, Graham S. and Zogbo, Lynell. A Handbook on the Book of Ecclesiates. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1997. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .