Ecclesiastes - Introduction

INTRODUCTION

The name “Ecclesiastes” is derived from the Greek word “ekklesia,” which means assembly; the title “Ecclesiastes” indicates that a leader or teacher is speaking before an assembly. Thus the book of Ecclesiastes is, in effect, a sermon—a sermon that explores the most important question a person can ask: What is the meaning of life?

According to traditional belief, Ecclesiastes was written by King Solomon. In the first verse of Chapter 1, the writer identifies himself as the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem. There is evidence of later editing, but we can assume that Ecclesiastes originated from the hand of Solomon (see Ecclesiastes 2:4–9).

The “Teacher” writes as an old man who has found much of life to be meaningless (Ecclesiastes 1:14). Yet he is aware that life can have meaning as long as it is lived in dependence on God and in accordance with His will. It is only life without God that is meaningless and hopeless.

The Teacher realizes the limits of human wisdom. God has purposes for human life, but we can’t fully understand those purposes. Humans must simply trust God and act on the knowledge He has given them. God’s purposes will ultimately result in good for those who love Him and obey Him (Romans 8:28).

The book of Ecclesiastes teaches us the folly of living a life that is not centered on God. We are encouraged to enjoy the gifts of God—food, drink, family and friends—but only as we seek first His kingdom and His RIGHTEOUSNESS (Matthew 6:33). At the end of the book, the Teacher writes: . . . here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man¹ (Ecclesiastes 12:13).