Ecclesiastes 6:2

God gives a man riches, wealth, and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires; but God does not allow him to enjoy them. Instead, a stranger will enjoy them. This is futile and a grievous affliction.

Study Bible

God gives a man riches, wealth, and honor
This phrase highlights the sovereignty of God in bestowing material blessings. The Hebrew word for "gives" (נָתַן, natan) implies a deliberate act of granting or bestowing. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wealth and honor were seen as signs of divine favor. The inclusion of "riches, wealth, and honor" suggests a comprehensive bestowal of both material and social status. This reflects the biblical principle that all good things come from God (James 1:17), emphasizing His role as the ultimate provider.

so that he lacks nothing his heart desires
The phrase "lacks nothing" indicates a state of complete satisfaction in terms of material needs. The Hebrew word for "lacks" (חָסֵר, chaser) conveys a sense of deficiency or need. The "heart" (לֵב, lev) in Hebrew thought is the center of one's desires and will. This suggests that God has provided abundantly, fulfilling every conceivable desire. However, the context of Ecclesiastes often questions the ultimate fulfillment found in material possessions, pointing to a deeper spiritual need.

but God does not allow him to enjoy them
Here, the text introduces a paradox. Despite having everything, the man cannot enjoy his blessings. The Hebrew word for "enjoy" (שָׁלַט, shalat) implies having control or dominion over something. This suggests that true enjoyment is not merely about possession but involves a deeper, God-given ability to appreciate and find satisfaction. This inability to enjoy is a divine withholding, highlighting the theme that true contentment is a gift from God, not a result of material abundance.

and a stranger consumes them
The term "stranger" (אִישׁ נָכְרִי, ish nokhri) refers to someone outside the family or community, often implying an outsider or foreigner. In ancient times, the loss of wealth to a stranger would be seen as a significant misfortune, reflecting a lack of legacy or continuity. This serves as a stark reminder of the transient nature of earthly possessions and the futility of placing ultimate trust in them.

This is futile and a grievous affliction
The word "futile" (הֶבֶל, hebel) is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes, often translated as "vanity" or "meaninglessness." It conveys the idea of something transient, elusive, or insubstantial. The phrase "grievous affliction" (רָעָה חוֹלָה, ra'ah cholah) suggests a deep, painful burden. This underscores the preacher's message that without God, even the greatest earthly blessings can lead to emptiness and sorrow. The passage calls readers to seek fulfillment beyond material wealth, pointing to a life centered on God as the source of true joy and purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The sovereign giver of all things, including riches, wealth, and honor.

2. The Man
Represents any individual who receives material blessings but is unable to enjoy them.

3. The Stranger
An unspecified person who ultimately benefits from the man's wealth.

4. Solomon
Traditionally considered the author of Ecclesiastes, reflecting on the futility of earthly pursuits.

5. Israel
The broader context of the audience who would have been familiar with the themes of blessing and futility.

Teaching Points

The Source of Blessings
Recognize that all material blessings come from God, and we are stewards of what He provides.

The Futility of Wealth Without Enjoyment
Understand that wealth alone does not guarantee happiness or fulfillment; true joy comes from God.

The Sovereignty of God
Acknowledge God's control over who enjoys wealth and who does not, reminding us of our dependence on Him.

The Danger of Misplaced Priorities
Reflect on the importance of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material wealth.

The Call to Generosity
Use material blessings to bless others, aligning with God's purposes and avoiding the futility of hoarding wealth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does recognizing God as the source of all blessings change our perspective on wealth and possessions?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are enjoying the blessings God has given us, rather than allowing them to become a source of futility?

3. How can the account of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 inform our understanding of Ecclesiastes 6:2?

4. What practical steps can we take to align our priorities with God's will, especially in the context of wealth and material possessions?

5. How can we apply the teachings of 1 Timothy 6:17-19 to our lives to avoid the "grievous affliction" mentioned in Ecclesiastes 6:2?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Job 21:13-15
This passage discusses the prosperity of the wicked and their ultimate lack of peace, paralleling the futility of wealth without divine blessing.

Luke 12:16-21
The parable of the rich fool illustrates the danger of storing up earthly treasures without being "rich toward God."

James 4:13-15
Highlights the uncertainty of life and the importance of seeking God's will rather than relying on material wealth.

1 Timothy 6:17-19
Advises the wealthy to place their hope in God and to be generous, contrasting the futility of riches with the value of good deeds.