What is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 2:21? When there is a man who has labored “When there is a man who has labored…” • Solomon pictures a hard-working individual who has spent years investing sweat and energy into his vocation (Genesis 2:15; Proverbs 22:29). • Labor itself is honored by God—work was given before the fall—yet here the Teacher highlights what can feel like its dark side: no matter how diligently we toil, its fruits are not finally ours to control (Psalm 127:1-2). • The verse invites us to look honestly at the limits of human effort while still affirming that diligent labor is good and commanded (Colossians 3:23). with wisdom, knowledge, and skill “…with wisdom, knowledge, and skill…” • The worker isn’t careless; he’s gifted and disciplined, embodying the qualities praised in Proverbs 3:19; Exodus 31:3—wisdom, understanding, craftsmanship. • These traits can yield beautiful results and material success, but Solomon reminds us that even the best-applied abilities cannot secure lasting possession of what they create (James 4:14). and he must give his portion “…and he must give his portion…” • “Portion” points to the estate, savings, or legacy he hoped to enjoy (Ecclesiastes 3:22). • Death or unforeseen circumstances force a hand-off the worker never intended, echoing the sober truth that riches do not follow us beyond the grave (Psalm 39:6; Luke 12:20-21). • The language underlines compulsion: the transfer is inevitable, not optional. to a man who has not worked for it “…to a man who has not worked for it…” • The heir could be a son, relative, or even a stranger—anyone who receives without sharing the toil (Proverbs 13:22). • Because the recipient lacks personal investment, there is no guarantee he will steward the inheritance wisely (2 Chronicles 10:8-16). • Solomon exposes the injustice that often accompanies wealth transfers in a fallen world (John 4:38, where others “reap what you have not labored for”). this too is futile “…this too is futile…” • “Futile” (hebel) signals vapor, breath—life’s fleeting, elusive quality (Ecclesiastes 1:2; Psalm 144:4). • Even the most fruitful career cannot conquer the brevity of life or secure permanent satisfaction apart from God (1 Timothy 6:17). • The Teacher pushes us to look beyond earthly achievements to what endures (Matthew 6:19-21). and a great evil “…and a great evil.” • “Great evil” denotes deep moral frustration: the world is not as it ought to be (Habakkuk 1:13). • Sin’s curse (Genesis 3:17-19) warps work and wealth, creating inequities that grieve righteous hearts (Romans 8:20-22). • The phrase prepares readers for Ecclesiastes’ later call to fear God and find joy in His gifts rather than in possessions themselves (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). summary Ecclesiastes 2:21 confronts us with a hard truth: no matter how wisely and skillfully we labor, the fruits of our work ultimately slip from our grasp and may pass to those who never lifted a finger for them. This reality feels empty and even unjust because creation groans under sin’s curse. Solomon’s aim is not to disparage diligent work but to expose the limits of human effort and to drive us toward humble dependence on God, the only One who grants lasting meaning and reward. |
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