Book 21 of 39 in the Old Testament — Meaning & the ‘vanity’ of life.
Ecclesiastes records the reflections of ‘the Teacher,’ traditionally identified with Solomon, as he searches for meaning through pleasure, achievement, wisdom, and wealth, and finds them all fleeting — ‘vanity of vanities.’ The refrain ‘under the sun’ marks his relentlessly honest look at life's apparent futility when viewed apart from eternity. Yet the book doesn't end in despair: its conclusion urges readers to fear God, keep his commandments, and enjoy the simple gifts of life he provides. It's an unusually candid wrestling with life's hardest questions.
“Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity.”King James Version
“Vanity of vanities... all is vanity” — the book's opening theme.
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:”King James Version
There is a time for everything under the sun.
“Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.”King James Version
Two are better than one, since they can help each other succeed.
“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.”King James Version
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.”King James Version
The book's conclusion: fear God and keep his commandments.