Latest Commentaries

The self-destruction that stems from hoarding is lamented. Hoarders refuse to face the reality of death. This evil harms not only the hoarder, but also succeeding generations.

A love of money and dependence on wealth robs the rich of contentment. But work leads to contentment.

Returning to the ills of injustice, Solomon explains that part of the reason for injustice is bureaucracy.

Solomon continues his advice on how we ought to behave in our interactions with God, warning us against the dangers of improper oaths and suggesting a powerful alternative: keep your promises.

When we approach God, we ought to do so with a pure desire to listen and obey rather than seeking ways to get God to do our bidding. Listening takes effort, but it is the path to wisdom.

People are eager and appreciative when wise leadership replaces foolish. But they soon take their improved circumstances for granted and wish for additional improvement. 

Solomon advocates for the benefit of human community—what we can do when we work together rather than against one another or alone.

With so much oppression and rivalry, perhaps it is better to do life alone. But, alas, this too is vaporous.

Rivalry in our labor is tempered by working for what we need rather than to impress. A proper balance between striving and resting is better than a futile obsession with work. 

Solomon returns to evaluating from the perspective of human reason and experience. He observes the vanity of injustice. Mankind’s failure to steward justice in this world makes existence on earth unenviable.

Humans and beasts both return to dust. So how is it we are any better off than the animals? Our purpose and contentment come from accepting reality and trusting in God.

Solomon declares the cycles of time and circumstance are God’s sovereign handiwork. Since man cannot fully fathom the mysteries of God and because His judgment is coming, we ought to fear Him.

Solomon reveals the foundation for the enjoyment of life: faith in God’s goodness. When we treat the opportunities of life as a gift from God, we can enjoy all we do. Without faith, life is nothing but frustration. When we accept the mysteries of reality, we are free to trust God and enjoy life.

Solomon’s poem about the paradoxes of life shows God’s timing and sovereignty in all things. It invites us into a perspective of balance and trust in the Lord of All.

Solomon turns from the frustration of failing to find meaning through reason and experience. He discovers meaning and purpose through a life of faith and thanksgiving to God.

Solomon examines the destiny of his legacy and the intrinsic value of his hard work, and despairs because he will leave it all to those who will eventually squander it.

Solomon laments that his pursuit of pleasure and accomplishments do not result in lasting fulfillment.

Solomon pursues the heights of pleasure and the diverse ways a man might enjoy himself, all while holding on to wisdom. He reflects upon the experiences of his unparalleled accomplishments and acquisitions.

Solomon evaluates pleasure as a means to satisfy man’s compulsion for understanding, and finds that it is a dead end.

Solomon evaluates his pursuit of wisdom and knowledge, concluding it is futile. He moves to explore madness and folly, but they are futile as well. He discovers that more wisdom means a greater awareness of the futility of seeking knowledge.