There is a key word and a key phrase that explain what Ecclesiastes is all about.
The key word is translated “vanity” in the KJV. Recent study of the language indicates that the term is richer than that. It points to something vain (“empty”), it is true, but also carries with it the idea that what makes it useless is that what is done will not last. If we would coin a term to translate it, we would have to say that “All is impermanence.” Throughout the book evidence of every kind is adduced to prove this fact. For instance, a man slaves throughout his life, but what it gains him, only those who follow can enjoy. He dies before he can benefit from it.
The key term is “under the sun.” This phrase refers to the world as it is presently constituted–a world of sin and its consequences. And, in particular it refers to the life of those who live only for this world. It is a world under the sun rather than a world under His Son.
Pessimism? Is that the theme of the book? Yes and no. Is there a pessimistic attitude on the part of the
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