Ecclesiastes 5 Footnotes

5:8-9 The translation of these verses varies considerably among English versions because the Hebrew is obscure, especially in v. 9. Verse 8 suggests that when governing officials (Solomon had appointed such officials, 1Kg 4:7) conspire with one another up the chain of command, it is not surprising that the common people are treated unjustly. Verse 9 appears to continue the thought, extending the corruption to the king himself. But that passage could be translated differently: “An advantage for the land in every respect is a king for a cultivated field” (see textual footnote). This could imply that a strong central authority is able to hold regional corruption in check, even in the agricultural areas. In any case, these verses neither advocate passive acceptance of bad government nor the overthrow of all governmental authority.

5:18 In saying that it is appropriate for a person to eat, drink, and find enjoyment in life “because that is his reward,” the author did not mean these are life’s only rewards because there is no afterlife (see note on 3:19-20). These are the rewards of a person’s labor, and one should not neglect to take time out for some simple pleasures.