Why ship your grain across the sea? (Ecclesiastes11:1)
Ecclesiastes 11-12 New International Version (NIV)
11 Ship your grain across the sea;
after many days you may receive a return.
2
Invest in seven ventures, yes, in eight;
you do not know what disaster may come upon the land.
Ecclesiastes 11:1
ESV - 1 Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days.
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Asked May 03 2019
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Jack Gutknecht
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For follow-up discussion and general commentary on the topic. Comments are sorted chronologically.
Jennifer Rothnie
Just in general, this is the equivalent to the English proverb of "don't put all your eggs in one basket." It was especially important in their society, which was so dependent on animals and produce, to think ahead far past short term trends on what was growing well. This holds true today, as well, though it applies in more areas than just farming and ranching - businesses that put all their hopes on one platform (Instagram, retail store front, etc.) often fold when the market moves on without them.
Jack Gutknecht
My opinion is that of a study Bible: Be adventurous, like those who accept the risks and take advantage of the benefits of seaborne trade. Do not always play it safe (see Proverbs 11:24 and note in the NIV Study Bible.)