Ecclesiastes 6
Read Ecclesiastes 6 (WEB)+
1There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, and it is heavy on men: 2a man to whom God gives riches, wealth, and honor, so that he lacks nothing for his soul of all that he desires, yet God gives him no power to eat of it, but an alien eats it. This is vanity, and it is an evil disease. 3If a man fathers a hundred children, and lives many years, so that the days of his years are many, but his soul is not filled with good, and moreover he has no burial; I say, that a stillborn child is better than he: 4for it comes in vanity, and departs in darkness, and its name is covered with darkness. 5Moreover it has not seen the sun nor known it. This has rest rather than the other. 6Yes, though he live a thousand years twice told, and yet fails to enjoy good, don’t all go to one place? 7All the labor of man is for his mouth, and yet the appetite is not filled. 8For what advantage has the wise more than the fool? What has the poor man, that knows how to walk before the living? 9Better is the sight of the eyes than the wandering of the desire. This also is vanity and a chasing after wind. 10Whatever has been, its name was given long ago; and it is known what man is; neither can he contend with him who is mightier than he. 11For there are many words that create vanity. What does that profit man? 12For who knows what is good for man in life, all the days of his vain life which he spends like a shadow? For who can tell a man what will be after him under the sun?
World English Bible (public domain)
“"Moreover, it is not good enough to experience prosperity if one neither relishes in it nor enjoys life; this is a grievous evil."”
Ecclesiastes 6:2
Summary
Ecclesiastes chapter 6 explores the futility of wealth and the limitations of human wisdom. The chapter begins by addressing the tragedy of a man who receives wealth, possessions, and honor from God, yet cannot enjoy them because a stranger consumes them instead. This is described as a grievous evil. The passage then considers the idea of longevity and prosperity without satisfaction, comparing it to a stillborn child, emphasizing that even a long life without contentment is ultimately meaningless. The text reflects on humanity's insatiable desires and how earthly endeavors often lead to frustration. It underscores that the quest for meaning through material prosperity is ultimately unfulfilling without recognizing God's sovereignty and purpose.
Key Themes
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