Introduction – Ecclesiastes 1:1-2
The primary verse of Ecclesiastes says it was written by David’s son, the king in Jerusalem, which we all know was Solomon. This is without doubt one of the 5 scrolls that the Jews name the Megillot and browse at particular instances of the yr. The opposite e-book written by the king, Track of Solomon, can be included within the Megillot, together with Ruth, Esther, and Lamentations. All of those are a part of the knowledge and worship books of the Outdated Testomony (not the books of the Regulation or the Prophets) and are brief sufficient to learn in a single sitting. Ecclesiastes is learn yearly at Pentecost.
The primary verse additionally says Solomon was the Preacher. Because the wisest man to ever stay, he had assembled a bunch of males to whom he informed what he had realized concerning the which means of life. He begins by telling them that it’s all self-importance — futile and meaningless. What a strategy to encourage the group! He’s like, “Hey, guys. I gathered you all collectively to inform you what I’ve come to know concerning the which means of life, and right here it’s: ‘There isn’t any which means to be discovered. All the pieces is fairly pointless, truly. Let me offer you some examples.’” Are you able to think about? I feel I’d flip round and stroll out. Talking of pointless! What can be the aim of listening to that model of knowledge? Perhaps you might be considering the identical factor proper now about persevering with to learn this e-book. So, let me clarify.
This phrase actually means breath or vapor, the invisible puff of air that lasts solely a second earlier than it dissipates (James 4:14). Solomon is saying that life is fleeting, lasting solely a short while earlier than it’s gone (Psalm 39:5–6). Then, as he continues, he explains that the significant elements of life usually are not tangible or seen. They’re non secular (2 Corinthians 4:18).
The phrase for spirit within the Bible can be rooted within the phrase “breath” (Genesis 2:7). However it’s much less a breath and extra like respiratory — much less like air and extra like wind (John 3:8). It’s the sort of breath that strikes and gives life (Job 33:4).
So, Solomon begins this e-book by saying that life is fleeting, brief, and short-term. Then, he explains that he’s come to know that which means is just not discovered within the tangible, seen issues of life. As a substitute, it’s the invisible that’s really transferring, life-giving, and everlasting.
