The exact words
“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.”Ecclesiastes 9:10, King James Version (1611)
✓ VerifiedFound in a primary source: the original book, speech transcript, letter or recording.
What people get wrong
Common reading
A general instruction to work hard because hard work pays off.
A general instruction to work hard because hard work pays off.
Closer to the original
The reason the verse gives is not success but mortality. Work wholeheartedly now, because in the grave there is no more work or wisdom. It is closer to “seize the day” than to a promise of reward.
The reason the verse gives is not success but mortality. Work wholeheartedly now, because in the grave there is no more work or wisdom. It is closer to “seize the day” than to a promise of reward.
Timeline
- c. 450–200 BCEcclesiastes is written. After reflecting on how little anyone controls, the Teacher urges readers to enjoy their food, their family and their work while they can.
- 1611The King James Version gives the verse its familiar wording. It becomes a favorite motto in schools, workshops and sermons on diligence.
Use it in a speech
Ecclesiastes says, “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.” Not just the big jobs. Whatever is in front of you. That's how careers are built.
~10 secondsto say aloud
Pauseafter “with thy might”
Best spotthe advice section
There's a verse that says, “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.” For thirty years, that was simply how you worked. Now go do retirement with your might.
~11 secondsto say aloud
Pauseafter “with thy might”
Best spotthe closing toast
Questions people ask
Where is “whatsoever thy hand findeth to do” in the Bible?
Ecclesiastes 9:10.
What does it mean?
Give your full effort to whatever work you have, because life is short.
Cite this quote
These cite the original source directly, so you can use them in an essay or paper. Always check your teacher's required style.
MLAThe Bible. Authorized King James Version, 1611. Project Gutenberg, www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/10.
APAThe Holy Bible, King James Version. (1611/2026). Project Gutenberg. https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/10
IN TEXT (APA)(Ecclesiastes 9:10, King James Version)