Ecclesiastes, another example of Wisdom Literature, gives us the personal observations of a man who calls himself the "Teacher," traditionally believed to be Solomon. His life-long observations have led him to this conclusion: Life without God is futile, meaningless, without purpose, and empty. In a phrase, it is a vain pursuit.
Chapters 1-6 demonstrate this vanity, the meaninglessness of our efforts on earth apart from God. But in chapters 7-12 the Teacher reveals what he has learned, giving us a series of lessons on practical living. As he draws his teaching to a close, he offers his summation: "Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man." (Proverbs 12:13)
What does it say?
In this unusual and sometimes difficult book, the author declares everything "meaningless," a vain pursuit. This includes toil (1:14; 2:11, 17; 4:4, 7-8), wisdom (2:15), righteousness (8:14), wealth (2:26; 5:10; 6:2), prestige (4:16), pleasure (2:1-2), youth and vigor (11:10), life (6:12; 7:15; 9:9), and even the future after death (11:8).
The toil of man produces nothing of lasting value, especially when driven by improper motives. Man's wisdom and righteousness do not guarantee success. Wealth is lost at death and often before. Prestige does not last. Pleasure is illusive. Youth and vigor come and are gone. Life is but a fleeting moment and all go to the grave, both the wise and the fool, the rich and the poor.
But, in spite of this, life should not be abandoned or filled with despair. Rather, receive life as a glorious gift to enjoy. And live it to the fullest in a complete trust in God.
Faces & Places
The one person specifically mentioned in this book is the "Teacher" cited as the author in the book's opening line. The teacher is described as the son of David and king in Jerusalem. Evidently the book is ascribed to King Solomon.
Key Verses & Themes
Meaninglessness:
Proverbs 1:2 "'Meaningless! Meaningless!' says the Teacher. 'Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.'"
Under the Sun:
The phrase "under the sun" occurs 29 times in the book. (The first occurrences are 1:3, 9.) The book views life from a secular, earthy perspective - how life is lived "under the sun." It examines man's reasonings and actions apart from the Spirit of God and divine revelation.
So what?
Many people can relate to the theme of meaninglessness and vain pursuit described in this unusual book. As confusing as the book may be, there is something in it that rings very familiar; perhaps all too familiar.
The purpose of this book should serve as a wake-up call for Christians to gain a divine and not an earthly perspective on life. Ecclesiastes demonstrates the complete emptiness of that which is "under the sun" apart from that which is above the sun, that is, God's word, God's Spirit, and God's salvation.
How do we live with and through the many injustices, enigmas, and hidden traps of life? Don't try to figure it out. Enjoy life under God, with complete trust in God, and with a view to your eternal judgment and your eternal future.
