Guard your steps when you go to the house of God.
This phrase emphasizes the importance of approaching worship with reverence and mindfulness. The "house of God" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. In biblical times, the temple was not only a place for sacrifices but also a symbol of God's presence among His people. The admonition to "guard your steps" suggests a careful and respectful approach, recognizing the holiness of the place and the seriousness of worship. This echoes the instructions given to Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:5) and Joshua before the commander of the Lord's army (Joshua 5:15), where they were told to remove their sandals because they were on holy ground. It underscores the need for a heart prepared to meet God, aligning with the broader biblical theme of approaching God with humility and sincerity (Psalm 24:3-4).

Draw near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools,
Listening is prioritized over offering sacrifices, highlighting the value of obedience and understanding over mere ritual. This reflects the prophetic tradition found in 1 Samuel 15:22, where Samuel tells Saul that obedience is better than sacrifice. The "sacrifice of fools" refers to offerings made without genuine repentance or understanding, which God does not desire (Isaiah 1:11-17). In the cultural context of ancient Israel, sacrifices were a central part of religious life, but they were meant to be expressions of a heart aligned with God's will. This phrase calls for a posture of learning and submission to God's word, reminiscent of Jesus' teaching in Matthew 7:24-27 about the wise man who builds his house on the rock by hearing and doing God's word.

who do not know that they do wrong.
This part of the verse highlights the danger of ignorance in worship. The "fools" are those who are unaware of their wrongdoing, possibly due to a lack of self-examination or understanding of God's requirements. This ignorance can lead to empty rituals and a false sense of security, as seen in the warnings to the Israelites in the prophets (e.g., Hosea 4:6, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge"). It serves as a caution against complacency and the assumption that external acts of worship are sufficient. This ignorance contrasts with the wisdom literature's emphasis on the fear of the Lord as the beginning of knowledge (Proverbs 1:7). In the New Testament, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their focus on outward rituals while neglecting the weightier matters of the law (Matthew 23:23). This phrase calls believers to seek true understanding and alignment with God's will, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, who is the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24).

Do not be quick to speak
This phrase emphasizes the importance of restraint in speech, a theme echoed throughout Scripture. James 1:19 advises believers to be "quick to listen, slow to speak," highlighting the wisdom in thoughtful communication. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, where oral tradition was significant, words held great power and were not to be used carelessly. Proverbs 10:19 also warns that "when words are many, sin is not absent," underscoring the potential for error when speaking impulsively.

and do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God
This part of the verse cautions against rash vows or promises made to God, a practice that was common in ancient religious contexts. In biblical history, vows were serious commitments (Numbers 30:2), and failing to fulfill them was considered sinful. The heart, often seen as the seat of intention and emotion, must be guarded to ensure sincerity and reverence in communication with the divine. Jesus, in Matthew 6:7, warns against "vain repetitions" in prayer, advocating for sincerity over verbosity.

For God is in heaven and you are on earth
This phrase establishes a clear distinction between the divine and human realms, emphasizing God's sovereignty and transcendence. It reflects the biblical worldview of God's omnipotence and omnipresence, as seen in Isaiah 55:8-9, where God's thoughts and ways are higher than human understanding. The geographical imagery of heaven and earth serves to remind believers of their humble position before an almighty God, encouraging a posture of humility and reverence.

So let your words be few
The conclusion of the verse advises brevity in speech, particularly in prayer and worship. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 6:7-8, where He instructs His followers not to babble like pagans, for God knows their needs before they ask. The cultural context of the time valued eloquence and lengthy orations, but this biblical instruction prioritizes sincerity and thoughtfulness. The call for few words is not a prohibition against prayer but an encouragement for meaningful and intentional communication with God.

As a dream comes through many cares
This phrase suggests that dreams are often a result of the multitude of concerns and anxieties that occupy a person's mind. In the biblical context, dreams were sometimes seen as messages from God, as in the cases of Joseph (Genesis 37:5-10) and Daniel (Daniel 2:19). However, this verse implies that not all dreams are divine revelations; many are simply the byproduct of daily stress and preoccupations. The Hebrew culture placed significant importance on dreams, yet this passage offers a more pragmatic view, acknowledging the human tendency to be overwhelmed by life's worries. This aligns with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:34, where He advises against being anxious about tomorrow.

so the speech of a fool comes with many words
This part of the verse draws a parallel between the multitude of dreams and the excessive words of a fool. In biblical literature, a fool is often characterized by a lack of wisdom and discernment, as seen in Proverbs 10:19, which warns that "when words are many, sin is not absent." The cultural context of ancient Israel valued wisdom and brevity in speech, as exemplified by the wise sayings of Solomon. The New Testament echoes this sentiment in James 1:19, advising believers to be "quick to listen, slow to speak." The comparison suggests that just as dreams can be meaningless, so too can the verbose speech of a fool lack substance and insight. This serves as a caution against the dangers of speaking without thought or purpose, highlighting the value of measured and thoughtful communication.

When you make a vow to God
In ancient Israel, vows were solemn promises made to God, often in the context of worship or in seeking divine intervention. These vows were not to be taken lightly, as they were considered binding and sacred. The practice of making vows is seen throughout the Old Testament, such as in Numbers 30:2, where it is stated that a man must not break his word. Vows were a way to express devotion and commitment to God, reflecting the seriousness of one's faith and relationship with Him.

do not delay in fulfilling it
Timeliness in fulfilling vows was crucial, as delaying could imply a lack of sincerity or respect towards God. In Deuteronomy 23:21-23, the Israelites were instructed to fulfill their vows promptly, emphasizing the importance of integrity and accountability. Delaying a vow could lead to spiritual consequences, as it might suggest that the vow was made rashly or without genuine intent.

because He takes no pleasure in fools
The term "fools" in biblical literature often refers to those who act without wisdom or reverence for God. In Proverbs, fools are frequently contrasted with the wise, highlighting the importance of living according to God's principles. By failing to fulfill a vow, one demonstrates foolishness, as it shows a disregard for the seriousness of the commitment made to God. This phrase underscores the importance of wisdom and discernment in one's spiritual life.

Fulfill your vow
The call to fulfill one's vow is a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and integrity in one's relationship with God. In the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes the importance of keeping one's word in Matthew 5:33-37, where He teaches about the seriousness of oaths. This reflects the continuity of the principle that one's promises to God and others should be honored. Fulfilling vows is an act of worship and obedience, demonstrating a heart aligned with God's will.

It is better not to vow
In ancient Israel, vows were solemn promises made to God, often in the context of seeking His favor or blessing. The practice of making vows is seen throughout the Old Testament, such as in Numbers 30:2, where it is stated that a man must not break his word once he has made a vow. The emphasis here is on the seriousness of making a vow to God, highlighting the importance of integrity and the weight of one's words. In the cultural context, vows were not only religious but also social commitments, and failing to fulfill them could lead to a loss of honor and trust within the community.

than to make a vow
The act of making a vow was a voluntary commitment, yet once made, it was binding. This phrase underscores the gravity of entering into such a promise. In the biblical context, making a vow was akin to entering into a covenant with God, and it required careful consideration and sincerity. The historical context shows that vows were often made during times of distress or need, as seen in the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1:11, who vowed to dedicate her son to the Lord if He granted her a child.

and not fulfill it.
The failure to fulfill a vow was considered a serious offense, as it was seen as breaking faith with God. Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 warns against making hasty promises to God, emphasizing that God takes no pleasure in fools who do not keep their vows. This reflects the broader biblical principle that God values truthfulness and faithfulness, as seen in Proverbs 20:25, which warns against making rash vows. Theologically, this can be connected to the nature of God as faithful and true, and the expectation that His people reflect these attributes. In the New Testament, Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:33-37 to let one's "yes" be "yes" and "no" be "no," further emphasizing the importance of honesty and integrity in one's commitments.

Do not let your mouth cause your flesh to sin
This phrase emphasizes the power of words and their potential to lead to sin. In biblical context, the mouth often symbolizes the heart's intentions (Matthew 12:34). The warning here is against rash vows or promises, which were common in ancient Israelite culture. The Law of Moses addressed the seriousness of vows (Numbers 30:2), highlighting the importance of integrity and the consequences of failing to fulfill one's word. The connection between speech and action is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in James 3:5-6, where the tongue is described as a small part of the body that can cause great harm.

and do not tell the messenger that your vow was a mistake
In ancient times, a messenger or priest might be sent to collect on vows made to God. This phrase warns against attempting to retract a vow by claiming it was made in error. Such actions reflect a lack of reverence for God and a failure to recognize the sanctity of one's promises. The cultural context underscores the seriousness of vows, as they were considered binding and sacred. This aligns with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:33-37, where He advises against making oaths altogether, advocating for simple and honest communication.

Why should God be angry with your words
This rhetorical question highlights the divine response to insincere or careless speech. In the Old Testament, God's anger is often depicted as a response to disobedience and irreverence (Exodus 32:10). The phrase serves as a reminder of God's holiness and the expectation of His people to uphold their commitments. It reflects the broader biblical principle that God values truth and integrity, as seen in Proverbs 12:22, which states that lying lips are an abomination to the Lord.

and destroy the work of your hands?
The consequence of God's anger is described as the destruction of one's labor. This reflects the biblical principle of divine retribution, where disobedience leads to tangible consequences (Deuteronomy 28:15-68). The "work of your hands" symbolizes one's efforts and achievements, which can be undone by God's judgment. This serves as a warning to maintain integrity and sincerity in one's relationship with God. The phrase also echoes the futility of human endeavors without divine favor, a theme prevalent throughout Ecclesiastes.

For as many dreams bring futility
This phrase highlights the vanity and emptiness often associated with dreams and aspirations that are not grounded in reality or divine purpose. In the biblical context, dreams can symbolize human ambitions and desires that are fleeting and unsubstantial. The book of Ecclesiastes frequently addresses the theme of vanity, emphasizing the temporary nature of worldly pursuits (Ecclesiastes 1:2). Historically, dreams were sometimes seen as messages from God, as in the case of Joseph (Genesis 37:5-10), but here they are portrayed as potentially misleading when not aligned with God's will. The futility mentioned reflects the broader message of Ecclesiastes, which often contrasts human endeavors with the eternal nature of God.

so do many words
This part of the verse warns against the use of excessive words, which can lead to sin and misunderstanding. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, speech was highly valued, but there was also a strong awareness of the power and potential danger of words (Proverbs 10:19). The New Testament echoes this sentiment, with James advising believers to be "quick to listen, slow to speak" (James 1:19). The emphasis on restraint in speech is a call to wisdom and discernment, recognizing that verbosity can lead to empty promises or falsehoods, much like the futility of dreams.

Therefore, fear God
The conclusion of the verse directs the reader to the central theme of Ecclesiastes: the fear of God. This fear is not about terror but reverence and awe for the Creator. It is a call to recognize God's sovereignty and align one's life with His will. The fear of God is a foundational principle in wisdom literature, as seen in Proverbs 9:10, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom." This reverence is contrasted with the futility of human dreams and words, pointing to a life of purpose and meaning found in submission to God. The phrase encapsulates the essence of Ecclesiastes, urging believers to prioritize their relationship with God above all else.

If you see the oppression of the poor and the denial of justice and righteousness in the province
This phrase highlights a common issue in ancient societies, including Israel, where the poor often faced exploitation. The Hebrew Bible frequently addresses social justice, emphasizing God's concern for the marginalized (e.g., Isaiah 1:17, Amos 5:24). The "province" suggests a localized area under governance, reflecting the administrative divisions in the ancient Near East. The oppression and denial of justice were systemic issues, often perpetuated by those in power, as seen in the prophetic critiques of Israel's leaders (e.g., Micah 3:1-3).

do not be astonished at the matter;
The admonition not to be astonished suggests that such injustices were, unfortunately, expected in a fallen world. This aligns with the biblical understanding of human nature post-Fall, where sin leads to corruption and injustice (Genesis 3). The wisdom literature often addresses the perplexing nature of evil and suffering, encouraging believers to trust in God's ultimate justice (Proverbs 3:5-6).

for one official is watched by a superior,
This phrase reflects the bureaucratic hierarchy typical of ancient governance systems, where officials were accountable to those above them. Such structures could lead to corruption, as each level might exploit those below to appease those above. This mirrors the biblical theme of human authority being prone to misuse, contrasting with God's perfect justice (Psalm 72:1-4).

and others higher still are over them.
The layering of authority suggests a complex system where accountability is diluted, often leading to systemic injustice. This can be seen in the historical context of monarchies and empires, where power was concentrated at the top, often resulting in the neglect of the common people. The Bible contrasts human kingdoms with God's kingdom, where righteousness and justice are foundational (Psalm 89:14). This hierarchy also foreshadows the ultimate authority of Christ, who will establish a kingdom of perfect justice (Isaiah 9:6-7).

The produce of the earth is taken by all;
This phrase highlights the universal dependence on the earth's produce. In biblical times, agriculture was the foundation of the economy, and everyone, from the common laborer to the wealthy landowner, relied on the land for sustenance. This reflects the creation narrative in Genesis, where God provides the earth's resources for humanity's use. The idea that the earth's produce is for all can be seen in the laws of gleaning (Leviticus 19:9-10), which allowed the poor and the foreigner to gather leftover crops, emphasizing God's provision and care for all people.

the king himself profits from the fields.
This part of the verse underscores the hierarchical structure of ancient societies, where even the king, the highest authority, is dependent on the agricultural output of the land. It reflects the economic reality that the prosperity of a nation, including its leaders, is tied to the productivity of its fields. Historically, kings would levy taxes on agricultural produce, which was a primary source of revenue for the kingdom. This can be seen in the story of Joseph in Egypt (Genesis 41), where the Pharaoh's wealth and power were directly linked to the management of the land's produce during the years of plenty and famine. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of the ultimate sovereignty of God over all creation, as even the most powerful earthly rulers are subject to the natural order established by God.

He who loves money is never satisfied by money
This phrase highlights the insatiable nature of human desire for wealth. In biblical context, the love of money is often portrayed as a root of all kinds of evil (1 Timothy 6:10). The pursuit of wealth can lead to a never-ending cycle of dissatisfaction, as material possessions cannot fulfill spiritual needs. Historically, the ancient Near Eastern cultures, including Israel, were agrarian and valued wealth in terms of land, livestock, and produce. The warning here is timeless, emphasizing that material wealth cannot bring true contentment or happiness.

and he who loves wealth is never satisfied by income
The repetition of the theme underscores the futility of seeking fulfillment in material gain. In the cultural context of the Bible, wealth was often seen as a sign of God's blessing, yet the scriptures consistently warn against placing trust in riches (Proverbs 11:28). The phrase suggests that no matter how much income one accumulates, it will never be enough to satisfy the deeper longings of the heart. This aligns with Jesus' teaching in Luke 12:15, where He warns against all kinds of greed, stating that life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.

This too is futile
The conclusion of the verse ties back to the overarching theme of Ecclesiastes, which is the vanity and meaninglessness of life when pursued apart from God. The term "futile" or "vanity" is a recurring motif in Ecclesiastes, often translated from the Hebrew word "hevel," meaning vapor or breath, symbolizing transience and emptiness. This reflects the book's exploration of life's purpose and the ultimate fulfillment found only in a relationship with God. The futility of wealth is a reminder that earthly pursuits are temporary and cannot provide eternal satisfaction, pointing to the need for a deeper, spiritual focus.

When good things increase,
This phrase reflects the accumulation of wealth and possessions, a common theme in Ecclesiastes. In the ancient Near Eastern context, prosperity was often seen as a sign of divine favor. However, the Preacher (traditionally understood as Solomon) frequently questions the ultimate value of material wealth. The increase of "good things" can also be seen as a test of character, as wealth can lead to pride or a false sense of security, as warned in Proverbs 11:28.

so do those who consume them;
This part highlights the inevitable increase in dependents and responsibilities that accompany wealth. In ancient times, a wealthy individual would attract servants, workers, and even opportunists seeking to benefit from their prosperity. This reflects the cultural reality of patronage systems in the ancient world, where wealth was often shared within a community, but also exploited. The New Testament echoes this sentiment in James 5:1-6, where the rich are warned about the consequences of hoarding wealth.

what then is the profit to the owner,
Here, the Preacher questions the true benefit of wealth. Despite the increase in material goods, the owner may not experience personal gain or satisfaction. This rhetorical question challenges the reader to consider the fleeting nature of earthly possessions. Jesus addresses a similar theme in Matthew 16:26, questioning the value of gaining the world at the cost of one's soul.

except to behold them with his eyes?
The conclusion of the verse suggests that the only tangible benefit of wealth is the ability to see it, emphasizing its temporary and superficial nature. This aligns with the broader message of Ecclesiastes, which often points to the vanity of earthly pursuits. The idea of merely "beholding" wealth can be seen as a type of Jesus Christ, who taught that true treasure is found in heaven, not on earth (Matthew 6:19-21). The Preacher's observation serves as a reminder of the limitations of material wealth and the importance of seeking eternal values.

The sleep of the worker is sweet
This phrase highlights the contentment and peace that come from honest labor. In biblical times, work was often physically demanding, and a laborer's rest was well-earned. The Bible frequently emphasizes the value of hard work (Proverbs 12:11, 14:23). The sweetness of sleep here symbolizes the satisfaction and peace that come from fulfilling one's duties and living a life of integrity. This can be seen as a reflection of the divine order established in Genesis, where God Himself worked for six days and rested on the seventh (Genesis 2:2-3).

whether he eats little or much
This part of the verse underscores the idea that contentment is not dependent on material wealth or abundance. The worker's peace is not tied to the quantity of his possessions or food, but rather to the fulfillment of his labor. This echoes the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, where He emphasizes that life is more than food and the body more than clothes (Matthew 6:25). The Apostle Paul also speaks to this in Philippians 4:11-12, where he describes learning to be content in any circumstance.

but the abundance of the rich man permits him no sleep
Here, the focus shifts to the rich man, whose wealth and possessions become a source of anxiety rather than comfort. This reflects the biblical theme that riches can be a burden and a distraction from spiritual well-being (1 Timothy 6:9-10). The rich man's sleeplessness can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual unrest that comes from placing trust in material wealth rather than in God. Jesus' parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21) illustrates the futility of hoarding wealth without being "rich toward God." This phrase serves as a caution against the false security that wealth can provide, reminding believers to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33).

There is a grievous evil I have seen under the sun:
The phrase "grievous evil" indicates a profound moral and ethical concern. In the context of Ecclesiastes, "under the sun" refers to life on earth, emphasizing the human perspective apart from divine revelation. The author, traditionally believed to be Solomon, uses this phrase to highlight the futility and vanity of earthly pursuits. This aligns with the broader theme of Ecclesiastes, which questions the value of worldly achievements without a relationship with God. The term "grievous" suggests a deep sorrow or burden, indicating the severity of the issue being addressed.

wealth hoarded to the harm of its owner:
The act of hoarding wealth is depicted as harmful, suggesting that excessive accumulation can lead to negative consequences. This reflects the biblical principle that wealth, when not used wisely or shared, can become a source of personal destruction. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, wealth was often seen as a sign of God's blessing, yet the misuse of it could lead to spiritual and relational decay. This idea is echoed in the New Testament, where Jesus warns against storing up treasures on earth (Matthew 6:19-21). The harm mentioned could be both physical and spiritual, as the obsession with wealth can lead to anxiety, isolation, and a false sense of security. The passage serves as a caution against the idolatry of wealth, urging believers to seek contentment and generosity.

or wealth lost in a failed venture
This phrase highlights the uncertainty and fleeting nature of material wealth. In the ancient Near Eastern context, economic ventures were often risky due to factors like unpredictable weather, political instability, and trade route dangers. The Bible frequently warns against placing trust in wealth (Proverbs 23:4-5; 1 Timothy 6:17). The parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 echoes this sentiment, illustrating the folly of hoarding wealth without regard for spiritual matters. The loss of wealth can serve as a reminder of the impermanence of earthly treasures and the importance of storing up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21).

so when that man has a son
The mention of a son underscores the cultural importance of inheritance in biblical times. Inheritance was not only a means of providing for one's descendants but also a way to ensure the continuation of the family line and legacy. The loss of wealth would have been particularly distressing in this context, as it could jeopardize the future security and status of one's offspring. This reflects the broader biblical theme of generational blessings and responsibilities (Genesis 17:7; Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

there is nothing to pass on
This phrase emphasizes the ultimate futility of relying on material wealth for lasting security. The Bible consistently teaches that true inheritance is spiritual rather than material (1 Peter 1:3-4). The inability to pass on wealth serves as a metaphor for the transient nature of earthly life and possessions. It points to the need for a legacy rooted in faith and righteousness, as seen in the lives of biblical figures like Abraham, who was promised a spiritual inheritance through his descendants (Genesis 12:1-3). This also foreshadows the eternal inheritance believers receive through Jesus Christ, who offers a kingdom that cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28).

As a man came from his mother’s womb
This phrase emphasizes the beginning of human life, highlighting the vulnerability and dependency of a newborn. In biblical context, it reflects the creation narrative where God forms man from the dust (Genesis 2:7), underscoring the idea that life is a gift from God. The imagery of birth is used throughout Scripture to symbolize new beginnings and the purity of life before the accumulation of worldly possessions and sin.

so he will depart again
This part of the verse speaks to the inevitability of death, a common theme in Ecclesiastes. It echoes the sentiment found in Job 1:21, where Job acknowledges the transient nature of life. The certainty of death serves as a reminder of human mortality and the futility of earthly pursuits without a focus on eternal values. It also points to the biblical teaching that life is a temporary journey, and one's true home is with God (Philippians 3:20).

naked as he arrived
The mention of nakedness at both birth and death highlights the idea that material possessions are ultimately insignificant. This reflects the biblical teaching that earthly wealth cannot be taken into the afterlife (1 Timothy 6:7). The nakedness also symbolizes the purity and vulnerability of the human condition, reminding believers of the need for spiritual clothing, which is found in Christ's righteousness (Revelation 3:18).

He takes nothing for his labor
This phrase underscores the futility of labor when viewed solely from an earthly perspective. It aligns with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:19-21, where He advises storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth. The labor mentioned here can be seen as a metaphor for human efforts and achievements, which, without a focus on God, are ultimately meaningless.

to carry in his hands
The imagery of carrying something in one's hands suggests possession and control. However, this phrase emphasizes the inability to take material wealth beyond the grave. It serves as a reminder of the biblical principle that true wealth is found in spiritual riches and a relationship with God (Colossians 3:2). This perspective encourages believers to focus on eternal values and the kingdom of God, rather than temporary, worldly gains.

This too is a grievous affliction:
The phrase highlights the deep sorrow and frustration that the Preacher, traditionally understood as Solomon, feels about the futility of human endeavors. The term "grievous affliction" suggests a profound burden or misfortune, echoing the themes of vanity and meaninglessness found throughout Ecclesiastes. This sentiment is consistent with the book's exploration of life's transient nature and the limitations of human wisdom and effort.

Exactly as a man is born, so he will depart:
This phrase underscores the inevitability of death and the equality it brings to all people, regardless of their status or achievements. It reflects the biblical theme of human mortality, as seen in Genesis 3:19, where God tells Adam, "For dust you are, and to dust you shall return." The cyclical nature of life and death is a reminder of the limitations of earthly pursuits and the need for a focus on eternal matters.

What does he gain as he toils for the wind?
The imagery of "toiling for the wind" conveys the futility and elusiveness of human efforts when they are not grounded in eternal purpose. This echoes the sentiment in Ecclesiastes 1:14, where the Preacher observes, "I have seen all the works that are done under the sun, and indeed, all is vanity and grasping for the wind." The rhetorical question challenges the reader to consider the ultimate value of their labor and to seek fulfillment beyond material and temporal achievements. This aligns with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:19-21, where He advises storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth.

Moreover, all his days
This phrase emphasizes the continuous and unrelenting nature of the experience described. In the context of Ecclesiastes, it reflects the ongoing struggle and toil of human life under the sun. The phrase "all his days" suggests a lifetime of experience, echoing the theme of life's fleeting and often burdensome nature as seen throughout the book. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative of human life being marked by labor and toil since the fall in Genesis 3:17-19.

he eats in darkness
Eating in darkness symbolizes a life devoid of joy and understanding. In biblical times, darkness often represented ignorance, evil, or despair (John 3:19-20). The act of eating, a basic necessity, done in darkness suggests a lack of fulfillment and enlightenment. This can be contrasted with the imagery of light in the New Testament, where Jesus is described as the "light of the world" (John 8:12), offering hope and clarity.

with much sorrow
Sorrow here indicates deep emotional pain and dissatisfaction. The Hebrew word used can also imply grief or vexation. This reflects the Preacher's observation of life's vanity and the emotional toll it takes on individuals. The theme of sorrow is prevalent in Ecclesiastes, as the pursuit of worldly pleasures and achievements often leads to disappointment (Ecclesiastes 1:14).

sickness
Sickness can be understood both physically and metaphorically. It may refer to the physical ailments that accompany a life of hard labor and stress, or it could symbolize spiritual and emotional malaise. In the ancient Near East, sickness was often seen as a consequence of sin or divine displeasure, though the book of Job challenges this simplistic view. The presence of sickness underscores the frailty and imperfection of human existence.

and anger
Anger here may refer to frustration with life's injustices and the seeming futility of human efforts. It reflects the emotional response to the perceived inequities and unpredictability of life. This anger can be seen as a natural reaction to the vanity and fleeting nature of worldly pursuits, as discussed throughout Ecclesiastes. The Bible elsewhere advises against letting anger lead to sin (Ephesians 4:26), suggesting a need for divine perspective and patience.

Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting:
The author, traditionally believed to be Solomon, shares his observations on life. The phrase "good and fitting" suggests a sense of moral and aesthetic appropriateness. In the context of Ecclesiastes, this reflects a pursuit of wisdom and understanding of life's purpose. The Hebrew concept of "good" (טוֹב, tov) often implies alignment with God's will, suggesting that what is deemed good is also divinely approved.

to eat and drink,
Eating and drinking are basic human activities, symbolizing sustenance and enjoyment. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, meals were communal and often associated with fellowship and celebration. This phrase emphasizes the importance of enjoying God's provisions. It echoes the sentiment found in 1 Corinthians 10:31, where believers are encouraged to do everything for the glory of God, including eating and drinking.

and to find satisfaction in all the labor one does under the sun
The phrase "under the sun" is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes, representing life on earth from a human perspective. The pursuit of satisfaction in labor suggests a divine purpose in work, aligning with the creation mandate in Genesis 2:15, where Adam is placed in the Garden of Eden to work it. This satisfaction is not merely in the results but in the process, reflecting a contentment that comes from fulfilling one's God-given role.

during the few days of life that God has given him—
This acknowledges the brevity and transience of human life, a theme prevalent throughout Ecclesiastes. The "few days" highlight the temporal nature of earthly existence, reminiscent of Psalm 90:10, which speaks of the shortness of life. The acknowledgment that life is given by God underscores His sovereignty and the grace inherent in each day.

for this is his lot.
The term "lot" refers to one's portion or destiny, suggesting a divinely appointed path. This reflects the biblical understanding that God assigns each person their circumstances and responsibilities. It aligns with the idea in Proverbs 16:33, where the lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord. This phrase encourages acceptance and contentment with one's God-given circumstances, trusting in His wisdom and provision.

Furthermore, God has given riches and wealth to every man
This phrase acknowledges God's sovereignty and provision. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wealth was often seen as a sign of divine favor. The Bible consistently teaches that all blessings, including material wealth, come from God (Deuteronomy 8:18). This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that God is the ultimate source of all good things (James 1:17). The phrase also implies stewardship, as wealth is given by God and should be managed according to His principles.

and He has enabled him to enjoy them
Enjoyment of wealth is presented as a divine enablement, suggesting that true contentment and joy in material possessions are gifts from God. This contrasts with the futility often associated with wealth in Ecclesiastes (Ecclesiastes 2:11). The ability to enjoy wealth without it becoming an idol is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing gratitude and contentment (1 Timothy 6:17).

to accept his lot
Accepting one's lot refers to a contentment with one's circumstances, a theme prevalent in Ecclesiastes. This acceptance is not resignation but a recognition of God's sovereignty and provision. It echoes the Apostle Paul's teaching on contentment in Philippians 4:11-12. The phrase suggests a trust in God's plan and timing, acknowledging that He knows what is best for each individual.

and to rejoice in his labor
Rejoicing in labor highlights the value of work and the satisfaction it can bring. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, work was seen as a God-given duty and a means of serving Him (Genesis 2:15). This perspective is reinforced in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to work heartily as for the Lord (Colossians 3:23). The joy in labor is a counter to the often negative view of work as toil and drudgery.

This is a gift from God
The concluding phrase underscores the central theme of divine generosity. Everything, including the ability to enjoy wealth and find satisfaction in work, is a gift from God. This reflects the biblical teaching that life and its blessings are not earned but given by God's grace (Ephesians 2:8-9). It calls believers to a posture of gratitude and worship, recognizing God's hand in all aspects of life.

For a man seldom considers the days of his life
This phrase reflects the transient nature of human life and the tendency to focus on immediate experiences rather than the passage of time. In the context of Ecclesiastes, it underscores the theme of life's fleeting nature and the futility of human endeavors without divine perspective. The Hebrew word for "considers" can also imply deep reflection or contemplation, suggesting that people often live without fully appreciating the brevity of life. This echoes Psalm 90:12, which urges believers to "number our days" to gain wisdom. The cultural context of ancient Israel, where life was often uncertain due to factors like war, famine, and disease, would make this reflection particularly poignant.

because God keeps him occupied
This part of the verse highlights God's active role in human life, providing a sense of purpose and engagement. The word "occupied" suggests a divine intervention that fills a person's life with meaningful activity. This aligns with the biblical view that God is sovereign and intimately involved in the lives of His people, as seen in passages like Proverbs 16:9, which states that "the heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." Theologically, this can be seen as a form of divine grace, where God provides contentment and purpose amidst life's vanities.

with the joy of his heart
The joy mentioned here is a gift from God, contrasting with the often pessimistic tone of Ecclesiastes. This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but is a deep-seated contentment that God imparts. In the broader biblical narrative, joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and is often associated with salvation and God's presence (Psalm 16:11). This joy can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate source of joy for believers, as He promises fullness of joy in Him (John 15:11). The historical context of Ecclesiastes, likely written during Solomon's reign, a time of prosperity and peace, would make this divine joy particularly relevant as a counterbalance to the material wealth and achievements that might otherwise distract from spiritual fulfillment.