סֶ֫כֶל (se.khel)
se.khel
folly
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun sekel denotes folly, appearing only once in the Old Testament at Ecclesiastes 10:6. In this specific context, it describes a foolish person who is elevated to high positions of authority. This usage highlights a societal inversion where wisdom and competence are disregarded in favor of incompetence.
The term carries the weight of moral and practical absurdity rather than mere intellectual error. By placing folly on a throne, the text illustrates the chaos that ensues when leadership lacks discernment. The singular occurrence underscores the rarity but profound impact of such misplaced honor in the biblical worldview.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we see someone unqualified rise to power, it can feel like a disruption of the natural order. The word sekel, meaning folly, captures this specific kind of chaos in Ecclesiastes 10:6. It is not just about being silly; it describes a deep lack of wisdom that leads to poor decisions and societal instability.
This single occurrence reminds us that human systems are fragile. When leadership lacks discernment, the consequences ripple through communities. Yet, this reality does not mean we are without hope. God remains sovereign over nations and hearts, even when the structures around us seem upside down.
For your faith, this word invites trust in God’s ultimate justice rather than despair at current injustices. It encourages you to value wisdom in your own life and to pray for leaders who possess true understanding. In a world where folly often wears a crown, your steadfast reliance on divine wisdom provides a steady anchor.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- <the>/ folly1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/סֶּ֔כֶל1×
Key Verses
-
Ecclesiastes 10:6
Folly is set in great dignity, and the rich sit in a low place.
This verse uniquely pairs the noun for folly with high dignity to illustrate the absurdity of incompetent leadership.