There is another evil
The term "evil" here refers to a grievous or distressing situation rather than moral wickedness. In the context of Ecclesiastes, the Preacher often reflects on the futility and vanity of life. This "evil" is one of the many observations of life's injustices and perplexities. The Hebrew word for "evil" can also mean calamity or misfortune, emphasizing the burdensome nature of the situation being described.

I have seen
The phrase indicates personal observation and experience. The Preacher, traditionally understood to be Solomon, speaks from a position of wisdom and authority. His observations are not theoretical but based on real-life experiences. This lends credibility to his insights and underscores the authenticity of his reflections.

under the sun
This phrase is a recurring motif in Ecclesiastes, signifying life on earth from a human perspective, often excluding the divine or eternal viewpoint. It emphasizes the temporal and often perplexing nature of earthly existence. The phrase "under the sun" is used to highlight the limitations of human understanding and the repetitive cycles of life.

and it weighs heavily upon mankind
The imagery of something weighing heavily suggests a burden or oppression. This reflects the universal human experience of grappling with life's injustices and the seeming futility of human endeavors. The phrase captures the existential weight that people feel when confronted with life's inequities and the limitations of human wisdom. It echoes the sentiments found in other parts of Ecclesiastes, where the Preacher laments the burdensome nature of life without divine perspective.

God gives a man riches, wealth, and honor
This phrase highlights the belief that all material blessings originate from God. In the biblical context, riches, wealth, and honor are often seen as signs of God's favor, as seen in the lives of figures like Solomon (1 Kings 3:13) and Job (Job 1:1-3). However, the emphasis here is on the divine source of these blessings, reminding readers that human effort alone does not guarantee prosperity. This aligns with the broader biblical teaching that God is sovereign over all aspects of life, including material success (Deuteronomy 8:18).

so that he lacks nothing his heart desires
This phrase suggests a state of complete satisfaction and fulfillment, reminiscent of the promises found in Psalm 23:1, where the Lord is described as a shepherd who provides all needs. The heart's desires in biblical terms often refer to deep-seated longings and aspirations. However, the text implies that even when these desires are met, true contentment may still be elusive, pointing to the limitations of material wealth in providing lasting satisfaction.

but God does not allow him to enjoy them
Here, the text introduces a paradox where, despite having everything, the individual is unable to find joy in their possessions. This reflects the theme of divine sovereignty and the transient nature of earthly pleasures, as echoed in Ecclesiastes 2:26. It suggests that enjoyment is also a gift from God, not automatically granted with wealth. This can be seen as a warning against placing ultimate trust in material possessions, which can be fleeting and unsatisfying without God's blessing.

Instead, a stranger will enjoy them
This phrase underscores the futility of accumulating wealth for oneself, as it may ultimately benefit others. This idea is echoed in Ecclesiastes 2:18-19, where the Preacher laments leaving his labor to someone who did not work for it. Historically, this reflects the instability of wealth in ancient times, where political upheaval or personal misfortune could easily transfer wealth to others. It serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of focusing on eternal rather than temporal treasures (Matthew 6:19-21).

This is futile and a grievous affliction
The conclusion of the verse emphasizes the vanity and sorrow associated with misplaced priorities. The term "futile" is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes, often translated as "vanity" or "meaninglessness," highlighting the temporary and unsatisfying nature of worldly pursuits. The "grievous affliction" suggests deep emotional and spiritual distress, pointing to the emptiness that can accompany a life focused solely on material gain. This aligns with the broader message of Ecclesiastes, which calls readers to seek fulfillment in God rather than in earthly achievements.

A man may father a hundred children and live for many years;
In ancient Near Eastern culture, having many children was considered a sign of divine blessing and prosperity. Children were seen as a source of strength and security, especially in old age. The patriarchs, such as Abraham and Jacob, were promised numerous descendants as part of God's covenant (Genesis 15:5, 28:14). Longevity was also viewed as a blessing, as seen in the lives of the patriarchs and figures like Job (Job 42:16). However, the emphasis here is on the futility of these blessings if they do not lead to true fulfillment.

yet no matter how long he lives, if he is unsatisfied with his prosperity
The Hebrew concept of "shalom" encompasses peace, completeness, and satisfaction. Despite material wealth or a long life, true contentment is elusive without spiritual fulfillment. This echoes the theme of vanity found throughout Ecclesiastes, where earthly achievements and possessions are ultimately meaningless without a relationship with God (Ecclesiastes 1:2). Jesus also taught about the futility of earthly riches without spiritual wealth (Matthew 6:19-21).

and does not even receive a proper burial,
A proper burial was of great importance in ancient Israelite culture, signifying honor and respect. The lack of a proper burial was seen as a curse or disgrace (Jeremiah 22:18-19). This reflects the cultural belief that one's legacy and memory were preserved through burial rites. The dishonor of not being buried properly underscores the ultimate futility of a life focused solely on material gain.

I say that a stillborn child is better off than he.
This stark comparison highlights the theme of existential despair found in Ecclesiastes. A stillborn child, who never experiences life, is portrayed as better off than someone who lives a long life without finding true meaning or satisfaction. This echoes Job's lament about the day of his birth (Job 3:16). The passage challenges readers to consider the value of life beyond material success, pointing towards the need for spiritual fulfillment and the hope found in God.

For a stillborn child enters in futility
This phrase highlights the theme of futility or vanity, a central concept in Ecclesiastes. The stillborn child symbolizes the ultimate expression of life's fleeting nature. In biblical times, a stillborn child was seen as a profound tragedy, reflecting the unpredictability and often harsh realities of life. The use of "futility" connects to the Hebrew word "hevel," often translated as "vanity" or "meaninglessness," which appears frequently throughout Ecclesiastes. This word suggests a vapor or breath, emphasizing the transient and elusive nature of human endeavors. The comparison to a stillborn child underscores the preacher's view that life, without understanding or purpose, can seem as futile as a life that never fully begins.

and departs in darkness
The imagery of darkness here conveys a sense of obscurity and the unknown. In the ancient Near Eastern context, darkness often symbolized death, ignorance, or the absence of God's presence. The stillborn child, having never seen the light of day, departs in darkness, which can be interpreted as a metaphor for the lack of fulfillment or understanding in life. This reflects the broader existential questions posed in Ecclesiastes about the meaning of life and the inevitability of death. The darkness also contrasts with the biblical theme of light as life and truth, as seen in passages like John 1:4-5, where light represents the life and revelation brought by Christ.

and his name is shrouded in obscurity
In biblical culture, a name held significant importance, often reflecting one's identity, character, or destiny. The absence of a name for the stillborn child signifies a lack of identity and remembrance, emphasizing the theme of obscurity. This can be seen as a commentary on the human desire for legacy and remembrance, which Ecclesiastes suggests is ultimately futile. The obscurity of the name parallels the preacher's observations about the fleeting nature of fame and human achievement. In contrast, the Bible often highlights the eternal significance of names written in the Book of Life, as seen in Revelation 3:5, where believers are promised that their names will never be blotted out. This contrast underscores the transient nature of earthly recognition compared to the eternal recognition by God.

The child, though neither seeing the sun nor knowing anything
This phrase refers to a stillborn child, a poignant image used by the author to convey the futility and vanity of life under the sun. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the sun often symbolized life, vitality, and the passage of time. The child, having never seen the sun, represents a life that never began in the earthly sense. This imagery is used to emphasize the idea that sometimes it is better not to have experienced the burdens and toils of life at all. The concept of "knowing" in biblical terms often implies experiential knowledge, which the child lacks, highlighting the innocence and absence of worldly suffering. This can be connected to Job 3:16, where Job laments his own birth, wishing he had been like a stillborn child who never saw the light of day.

has more rest than that man
The "man" in this context is someone who has lived a life full of toil and dissatisfaction, yet without finding true fulfillment or peace. The term "rest" here implies a state of peace and freedom from the struggles and vanities of life. In biblical literature, rest is often associated with the peace of God and the ultimate rest found in Him, as seen in Hebrews 4:9-10, which speaks of a Sabbath rest for the people of God. The comparison suggests that the stillborn child, despite never experiencing life, is in a state of rest that the man, burdened by life's vanities, cannot achieve. This reflects the broader theme of Ecclesiastes, which questions the meaning of life and the pursuit of earthly achievements without a relationship with God. The passage challenges readers to consider the eternal perspective and the true source of rest and fulfillment, which is found in God alone.

even if he lives a thousand years twice over
This phrase emphasizes the concept of longevity, suggesting an extraordinarily long life. In biblical terms, living a thousand years is reminiscent of the antediluvian patriarchs like Methuselah, who lived 969 years (Genesis 5:27). The hyperbolic expression "a thousand years twice over" underscores the futility of life without fulfillment. It reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of time and longevity, where long life was often seen as a blessing. However, the text challenges this notion by suggesting that mere length of days does not equate to a meaningful life. This echoes the sentiment found in Psalm 90:10, where the brevity and toil of life are highlighted, regardless of its length.

but fails to enjoy his prosperity
The focus here is on the inability to find satisfaction or joy in one's wealth or achievements. This reflects a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes, where material wealth and success are deemed meaningless without the ability to enjoy them (Ecclesiastes 5:19-20). The Hebrew concept of "enjoyment" is tied to the idea of shalom, or peace and completeness, which is not merely physical but spiritual and relational. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a high value on prosperity as a sign of God's blessing, yet the Preacher (Qoheleth) challenges this by pointing out the emptiness of wealth without contentment. This aligns with Jesus' teaching in Luke 12:15, where He warns against greed and emphasizes that life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.

Do not all go to the same place?
This rhetorical question points to the inevitability of death, a common theme in Ecclesiastes. It suggests the universal destination of all humanity, regardless of wealth or status. The "same place" refers to Sheol, the abode of the dead in Hebrew thought, where distinctions of wealth and power are meaningless (Job 3:13-19). This reflects the biblical understanding of mortality and the futility of earthly pursuits without eternal perspective. The phrase also connects to the New Testament teaching on the equality of all before God in death, as seen in Hebrews 9:27, which states that it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment. This underscores the need for a life lived in the fear of God, as emphasized throughout Ecclesiastes.

All a man’s labor is for his mouth
This phrase highlights the fundamental human pursuit of sustenance and survival. In the ancient Near Eastern context, labor was primarily agrarian, with most people working the land to provide food for themselves and their families. This reflects the curse of Genesis 3:17-19, where Adam is told he will toil for his food. The emphasis on labor for sustenance is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in Proverbs 16:26, which states that a worker's appetite works for him. This phrase underscores the idea that much of human effort is directed toward meeting basic physical needs.

yet his appetite is never satisfied
This part of the verse speaks to the insatiable nature of human desire. Despite the labor and effort put into acquiring sustenance, there is a deeper longing that remains unfulfilled. This reflects the theme of vanity and futility found throughout Ecclesiastes, as seen in Ecclesiastes 1:8, where it is stated that the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing. The insatiable appetite can be seen as a metaphor for the human condition, where material and physical pursuits never fully satisfy the soul's deeper needs. This points to the need for spiritual fulfillment, which is ultimately found in Christ, as suggested in John 6:35, where Jesus declares Himself the bread of life, promising that whoever comes to Him will never hunger.

What advantage, then, has the wise man over the fool?
This phrase questions the practical benefits of wisdom over folly. In the context of Ecclesiastes, Solomon often reflects on the limitations of human wisdom. Despite the value placed on wisdom throughout the Bible (Proverbs 4:7), Solomon observes that both the wise and the foolish ultimately face the same fate—death (Ecclesiastes 2:14-16). This reflects the theme of life's fleeting nature and the vanity of earthly pursuits. The rhetorical question challenges readers to consider the eternal perspective, where true wisdom is found in fearing God and keeping His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13). The New Testament echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that Christ is the ultimate wisdom from God (1 Corinthians 1:30).

What gain comes to the poor man who knows how to conduct himself before others?
This phrase highlights the social dynamics and the perceived value of social skills or wisdom in navigating life. In ancient Near Eastern culture, social status was significant, and the ability to conduct oneself well could lead to better opportunities. However, Solomon questions the ultimate benefit of such skills if they do not lead to eternal gain. The poor man, despite his ability to navigate social situations, remains in his poverty, illustrating the limitations of human effort. This reflects the broader biblical theme that true gain is not found in worldly success but in spiritual riches (Matthew 6:19-21). The phrase also points to the idea that God values the heart over outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7), and true conduct is rooted in righteousness and humility before God.

Better what the eye can see
This phrase emphasizes the value of contentment with what is tangible and present. In the context of ancient Israel, where Ecclesiastes was written, life was often uncertain, and the future unpredictable. The phrase suggests a practical wisdom that values the immediate and certain over the speculative and uncertain. This echoes the wisdom found in Proverbs 27:20, which warns against insatiable desires. The idea is that what is visible and attainable is more reliable than chasing after what is not.

than the wandering of desire.
The "wandering of desire" refers to the restless pursuit of more, which is a common human tendency. In the historical context of Ecclesiastes, this could relate to the pursuit of wealth, power, or pleasure, which were prevalent in the ancient Near Eastern cultures. This phrase warns against the endless cycle of wanting more, which can lead to dissatisfaction and spiritual emptiness. James 1:14-15 speaks to how desire can lead to sin and ultimately death, highlighting the dangers of unchecked desires.

This too is futile
The term "futile" is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes, often translated as "vanity" or "meaninglessness." It reflects the Preacher's (traditionally believed to be Solomon) exploration of life's purpose and the limitations of human endeavors. The futility here is the realization that earthly pursuits, driven by desire, ultimately do not satisfy the soul. This aligns with the New Testament teaching in 1 John 2:16-17, which contrasts worldly desires with the eternal will of God.

and a pursuit of the wind.
"Pursuit of the wind" is a metaphor for chasing something that cannot be caught or held. It illustrates the elusive nature of fulfillment through worldly means. In the cultural context, wind was often seen as a symbol of transience and unpredictability. This imagery is used throughout Ecclesiastes to convey the fleeting nature of life and human efforts. The phrase resonates with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:19-21, where He advises storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, emphasizing the eternal over the temporal.

Whatever exists was named long ago
This phrase reflects the biblical concept of God's sovereignty and foreknowledge. In the ancient Near Eastern context, naming something was an act of authority and dominion, as seen in Genesis 2:19-20 when Adam names the animals. This implies that everything in creation is under God's control and has been part of His divine plan from the beginning. The idea that everything was named long ago suggests that God has predetermined the course of history and the nature of all things, aligning with passages like Isaiah 46:9-10, where God declares the end from the beginning.

and it is known what man is
This part of the verse highlights the limitations and frailty of humanity. In biblical anthropology, humans are seen as created beings with inherent weaknesses, as described in Psalm 103:14, which acknowledges that God knows our frame and remembers that we are dust. The phrase suggests that human nature, with its flaws and limitations, is fully known to God. This understanding is consistent with the biblical theme of human dependence on God, as seen in Jeremiah 17:9-10, where the heart is described as deceitful, yet God searches and knows it.

but he cannot contend with one stronger than he
This phrase emphasizes the futility of human efforts to challenge or oppose God. The "one stronger" is often interpreted as God Himself, who is omnipotent and sovereign over all creation. This echoes Job 9:4, where Job acknowledges that no one can resist God and prosper. The futility of contending with God is a recurring theme in Scripture, reminding believers of the importance of humility and submission to God's will. It also points to the ultimate victory of God's purposes, as seen in Philippians 2:10-11, where every knee will bow to Christ, acknowledging His lordship.

For the more words, the more futility—
This phrase highlights the theme of vanity and meaninglessness that permeates the book of Ecclesiastes. The Preacher, traditionally understood to be Solomon, reflects on the limitations of human wisdom and the futility of excessive speech. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wisdom literature often emphasized the value of concise and thoughtful speech. Proverbs 10:19 echoes this sentiment: "When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent." The futility mentioned here aligns with the Hebrew word "hevel," often translated as "vanity" or "breath," suggesting something transient and insubstantial. This reflects the broader message of Ecclesiastes that human endeavors, apart from God, are ultimately futile.

and how does that profit anyone?
This rhetorical question underscores the practical nature of wisdom literature, which often seeks to guide behavior by considering the outcomes of actions. The term "profit" here can be understood in both material and spiritual senses. In the context of Ecclesiastes, the Preacher frequently questions what lasting benefit or gain can be derived from human toil and wisdom (Ecclesiastes 1:3). This inquiry into profit is reminiscent of Jesus' teaching in Matthew 16:26: "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?" The focus is on the eternal perspective, urging readers to consider the ultimate value of their words and actions in light of God's eternal purposes.

For who knows what is good for a man
This phrase reflects the theme of human limitation and the quest for understanding life's purpose. In the context of Ecclesiastes, the Preacher (traditionally understood as Solomon) grapples with the meaning of life and the pursuit of what is truly beneficial. This echoes the wisdom literature's emphasis on the limits of human knowledge, as seen in Job 28:12-28, where the search for wisdom is likened to mining for precious metals, ultimately concluding that only God knows the way to wisdom.

during the few days
The brevity of life is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing the transient nature of human existence. Psalm 90:10 speaks of the days of our lives being seventy or eighty years, yet they quickly pass. This perspective encourages a focus on eternal values rather than temporary pleasures, aligning with the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 6:19-21 about storing treasures in heaven.

in which he passes through his fleeting life like a shadow?
The imagery of life as a shadow underscores its ephemeral nature. Shadows are insubstantial and temporary, much like human life. This metaphor is also found in Job 8:9 and Psalm 144:4, reinforcing the idea that life is brief and uncertain. The fleeting nature of life calls for a reliance on God's eternal wisdom rather than human understanding.

Who can tell a man what will come after him
This question highlights the uncertainty of the future and the limitations of human foresight. In the ancient Near Eastern context, divination and seeking omens were common practices to predict the future, yet the Bible consistently points to God as the only one who knows the future (Isaiah 46:9-10). This reliance on divine knowledge is a call to trust in God's sovereignty over the unknown.

under the sun?
The phrase "under the sun" is a key motif in Ecclesiastes, referring to the earthly, temporal realm as opposed to the divine, eternal perspective. It suggests a life lived without reference to God, characterized by vanity and meaninglessness. This perspective is contrasted with the New Testament teaching in Colossians 3:1-2, which encourages believers to set their minds on things above, not on earthly things, thus finding true purpose and fulfillment in Christ.