The Book of Ecclesiastes is a unique and thought-provoking work of wisdom literature, traditionally attributed to King Solomon. The book's title in Hebrew, "Qohelet," is a term that refers to one who gathers or assembles, often translated as "Preacher" or "Teacher."
Throughout the book, the Qohelet reflects on the meaning and purpose of life, often expressing a sense of deep disillusionment and frustration with the apparent futility of human existence. He observes that all human endeavors—wisdom, pleasure, wealth, and work—are ultimately "vanity," "fleeting," or "perishable," like chasing after the wind.
The Qohelet's reflections touch on a wide range of topics, including the cycles of nature, the injustices of life, the inevitability of death, and the importance of enjoying the simple pleasures of life. He grapples with the apparent randomness of fate and the limitations of human wisdom, acknowledging that God's ways are often inscrutable to human understanding.
Despite the book's often pessimistic tone, the Qohelet does offer some positive insights and practical advice. He encourages readers to fear God, to enjoy the good things in life as gifts from God, and to make the most of their fleeting time on earth. He also emphasizes the importance of wisdom, though he recognizes its limitations.
The Book of Ecclesiastes concludes with a call to remember one's Creator in the days of youth, before the difficulties of old age set in. The Qohelet's final message is to fear God and keep His commandments, recognizing that this is the whole duty of humanity.
Ecclesiastes challenges readers to confront the deeper questions of life and to find meaning and purpose in a world that often seems chaotic and absurd. Its insights continue to resonate with readers across the ages, inviting reflection on the nature of wisdom, the human condition, and the role of faith in the face of life's mysteries.
Daniel J Estes, Handbook on the Wisdom Books and Psalms, (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2010).
Ecclesiastes, SBJT 15.3 (Fall 2011).
Eric Ortlund, The Gospel in the Book of Ecclesiastes, JETS 56/4 (2013), 697-706: "Qohelet does not speak about life without God, but of life of both sinner and saint under the sun, and God's strange manner of ordering (or, perhaps better, 'frustrating') our lives." He defends this understanding of Ecclesiastes and explains its implications for the Gospel message.
Alistair Begg, A Study in Ecclesiastes: Chasing the Wind.
Al Fuhr, Dr. Al Fuhr, Ecclesiastes (9 lectures).
Greg Gilbert, Ecclesiastes with Greg Gilbert.