than to rejoice
Rejoicing is a recurring theme in the Bible, often associated with the presence and blessings of God. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, joy was not merely an emotion but a response to God's goodness and faithfulness. This aligns with the teachings found in the Psalms, such as Psalm 16:11, which speaks of the fullness of joy in God's presence. The call to rejoice is also a reminder of the temporary nature of earthly life and the importance of finding joy in the present moment, as seen in Philippians 4:4, where believers are encouraged to rejoice always.

and do good
The exhortation to "do good" reflects the ethical and moral teachings of the Old Testament, particularly the Law of Moses, which emphasized justice, mercy, and righteousness. This phrase underscores the importance of living a life that aligns with God's commandments and reflects His character. The call to do good is echoed in the New Testament, such as in Galatians 6:9-10, where believers are encouraged to not grow weary in doing good. It also points to the life of Jesus Christ, who went about doing good (Acts 10:38), serving as the ultimate example for believers.

while they live
This phrase highlights the temporal nature of human existence and the urgency of living a meaningful life. In the historical context of Ecclesiastes, life was often seen as fleeting and unpredictable, a theme that resonates throughout the book. The emphasis on "while they live" serves as a reminder of the brevity of life, as seen in James 4:14, which compares life to a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. It encourages readers to make the most of their time on earth by rejoicing and doing good, aligning with the biblical call to live purposefully and in accordance with God's will.

Solomon speaks with settled conviction. He is not guessing; he is affirming truth God has revealed.

• Such certainty echoes Job 19:25, “I know that my Redeemer lives,” and 1 John 5:13, where John writes “so that you may know that you have eternal life.”

• Scripture invites believers to build life on what God has plainly made known, not on speculation.

The phrase highlights the supreme goodness of what follows. It recalls Ecclesiastes 2:24, “Nothing is better for a man than to eat and drink and enjoy his work.”

• Solomon is not denying higher spiritual realities; he is saying that, under the sun, this is the wisest course God openly approves.

• James 1:17 reminds us that “Every good and perfect gift is from above,” underscoring that genuine joy and righteous deeds come from God’s hand.

The “them” points to all people who live in God’s ordered world.

• 1 Timothy 2:4 notes God “desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth,” showing His universal concern.

• Acts 17:25 affirms that He “Himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else,” so this counsel applies to each one under His care.

Joy is not optional; it is commanded and celebrated.

• Philippians 4:4 urges, “Rejoice in the Lord always,” while Psalm 118:24 declares, “This is the day that the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

• Biblical joy is rooted in God’s character, not in changing circumstances, which is why Solomon can commend it even in a world he often calls “meaningless.”

Joy does not stand alone; it is partnered with active righteousness.

• Ephesians 2:10 states we are “created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand,” and Galatians 6:9 encourages, “Let us not grow weary in doing good.”

• True rejoicing naturally expresses itself in loving deeds—light shining before others so they may glorify the Father (Matthew 5:16).

The window to rejoice and serve is limited to our earthly days.

• James 4:14 cautions that life is “a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes,” and Psalm 90:12 prays, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

• Because “it is appointed for men to die once” (Hebrews 9:27), today is the time to embrace joy and goodness.

Ecclesiastes 3:12 teaches that life’s finest path, plainly revealed by God, is to embrace joyful gratitude and active goodness every day we are given. Certainty in God’s truth fuels joy, joy inspires righteous action, and the brevity of life urges us to seize each moment for His glory.

To do good.--This phrase is always used elsewhere in a moral sense: "to act rightly." When enjoyment is meant, the phrase used is, as in the next verse, "to see good;" but the context seems to require that this sense should be given to the phrase in this verse also.