When we’re surrounded by the temptation to proclaim life’s ultimate emptiness, we can find in Ecclesiastes a vision tempered by experience and ultimately seen through divinely colored lenses. [10] For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Better — More happy. When we attempt to find meaning in the pursuit of pleasure, the commitment to a job, or through plumbing intellectual depths, we all eventually find in each of these pursuits a dead end. 4:9-12 Surely he has more satisfaction in life, who labours hard to maintain those he loves, than the miser has in his toil. In one sense, it’s satisfying to see that experience echoed throughout Ecclesiastes. The "threefold cord" (Ecclesiastes 4:12) of social ties suggests the subject of civil government. © 2021 Insight for Living Ministries. The name of the book is Ecclesiastes and it is found in the Old Testament after the book of Proverbs and before Song of Solomon. The world is a vale of tears, even to those that have much of it. [3] Yea, better is he than both they, which hath not yet been, who hath not seen the evil work that is done under the sun. troubles from envy. This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. But here in Ecclesiastes 4:1-3, the Preacher doesn’t bring God into the picture. Does your life lack the meaning and purpose you desire? Ecclesiastes 1 Commentary: First of all, let’s discover what the message of the book of Ecclesiastes is. Not seen — Not felt: for as seeing good is put for enjoying it, so seeing evil is put for suffering it. For this is certain, that setting aside the future life, which Solomon doth not meddle with in the present debate; and considering the uncertainty, and vanity, and manifold calamities of the present life, a wise man would not account it worth his while to live. Surely this also is vanity and vexation of spirit. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Explanation and Commentary of Ecclesiastes 4:12. Outline of Ecclesiastes 4 Miseries from oppression. (1a) The Preacher. Commentary on Ecclesiastes 2:18-26 (Read Ecclesiastes 2:18-26) Our hearts are very loth to quit their expectations of great things from the creature; but Solomon came to this at length. All is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2), indicating the utter futility and meaninglessness of life as he saw it. Ecclesiastes 11:4, ESV: "He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap." We all desire meaning in life. (Verse 13-16.) If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. Sign up to receive e-mail from Insight for Living Ministries. Users who viewed this discussion (Total:0) S. Member. They often become great and prosperous, but this excites envy and opposition. Ecclesiastes 4:9(NASB) Picture courtesy of Pixabay. Ecclesiastes’ authorship is usually attributed to Solomon based on the first verse of the book which reads, “The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem” (Ecclesiastes 1:1 ESV). Brother — To whom he may leave his vast estate. Please note, our website requires JavaScript to be supported. Again, I saw that for all toil and every skillful … He says it's pretty obvious that it's better to be dead than to be alive. The root meaning of the word is “thus pointing to what is hidden in the distant future or in the distant past.”[1] Therefore, in some passages the word refers to something in the distant past or future. 14 The youth may have come from prison to the kingship, or he may have been born in poverty within his kingdom. [14] For out of prison he cometh to reign; whereas also he that is born in his kingdom becometh poor. Verses 4-6 Solomon notices the sources of trouble peculiar to well-doers, and includes all who labour with diligence, and whose efforts are crowned with success. An appreciation for our common All is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2), indicating the utter futility and meaninglessness of life as he saw it. Ecclesiastes 4. ◄ Ecclesiastes 4:6 ► Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit. Verse Thoughts. Peshitta, Targum, and Talmud attribute the authorship of the book to King Solomon. Ecclesiastes 1:4 (NAS95S) The Hebrew word that is translated as “forever” is HOLAM. Ecclesiastes 4:5 I have seen that every labor and every skill which is done is the result of rivalry between a man and his neighbor. 4 I have seen that every labor and every skill which is done is the result of rivalry between a person and his neighbor. The folly of covetousness. 5 months ago. The Preacher went on to call himself “the son of David, king in Jerusalem,” one who has increased in “wisdom more than all who were over Jerusalem before me,” and one who has collected many proverbs (Ecclesiastes 1:1, 16; 12:9). Keith Simons. Some see the sentiments of Ecclesiastes 4:1-3 Ecclesiastes 4:1-3 [1] So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter. As king, he had the opportunity and resources to pursue the rewards of wisdom, pleasure, and work in and of themselves. Eccl. Let’s look at the passage surrounding Ecclesiastes 4:16 to put it into context. New American Standard Version (Verse 9-12.) Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. The root meaning of the word is “thus pointing to what is hidden in the distant future or in the distant past.”[1] Therefore, in some passages the word refers to something in the distant past or future. For instance, we read that God provides food, drink, and work (2:24); both the sinner and the righteous person live in God’s sight (2:26); God’s deeds are eternal (3:14); and God empowers people to enjoy His provision (5:19). (Verse 1-3.) Such a strong cord would be comparable, even superior, to many cables in use today. 11. He saw that toil and skillful labor is envied by others 2. When life is lived without God, life is futile and meaningless. The author had said that all was vanity for a man who is alone and toils for nothing, with no one else in his life. 13 Better a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to heed a warning. Two televisions is better than one. Only one or two are necessary, it seems. They assist each other by encouragement, or friendly reproof. What is the book about in a nutshell? 4 Again I looked and saw all the oppression that was taking place under the sun: I saw the tears of the oppressed— and they have no comforter; power was on the side of their oppressors— and they have no comforter. This is also vanity and vexation of spirit. (4:9). Skip to table of contents. Ecclesiastes 4 book would not have been consistent with Solomon’s reign as king which was an unparalleled time of peace and prosperity. Hear the words of Solomon that they might encourage you to place your trust solely in the Lord. Ver. “For whom am I toiling,” he asked, “and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?” This too is meaningless— a miserable business! Solomon was a mover and a shaker; he got things done. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NLT. 6 One hand full of rest is better than two fists full of labor and striving after wind. No comforter — None afforded them pity or succour. Fall — Into any mistake, or sin, or danger. (14) For he comes out of prison to be king, Although he was born poor in his kingdom. Skip to content . The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures is published by Jehovah’s Witnesses. The author had said that all was vanity for a man who is alone and toils for nothing, with no one else in his life. Ecc 4:1-8 describes the emptiness of many who make it to "the top". There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. All is vanity. But how can one k EasyEnglish is a system of simple English designed by Wycliffe Associates (UK). Ecclesiastes shows us a man who lived through this process and came out on the other side with a wiser, more seasoned perspective. James 4:3 "Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume [it] upon your lusts." Wait, vanity? humanity emerges from reading its pages. A poor yet wise lad is better than an old and foolish king who no longer knows how to receive instruction. Then he extols the virtues of having a partner. Journal Keep up to date with the latest news. Do not procrastinate—plunge in! Others, seeing the vexations of an active course, foolishly expect more satisfaction in sloth and idleness. [12] And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. No end — This humour of the common people hath no end, but passes from one generation to another. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS. Human effort or intellect pursuits, pleasure seeking or a power grab, personal prestige or the accumulation of wealth is identified by Solomon as being utterly vain. Ecclesiastes 11:4. Ecclesiastes chapter 4 KJV (King James Version) 1 So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter.. 2 Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead more than the living which are yet alive. To get a proper understanding of those verses, let’s read Ecclesiastes 4:7-12, “Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun. It is clear that there is a sense of despair in this book. Despite leaving only this rather mysterious name to indicate his identity, evidence in the book, along with most Jewish and Christian tradition, suggests that King Solomon authored Ecclesiastes. My Scripture reference is Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. Breath. Ecclesiastes 4:13-16 (13) Better a poor and wise youth Than an old and foolish king who will be admonished no more. We all know this. ecclesiastes 11 explained. One thing that causes us to dream is when we have eaten something that does not agree with us. If God is not placed first in every liaison that we human beings make (marriage, friendship, or church fellowship) the relationship will be short lived. (Read Ecclesiastes 4:4-6) Solomon notices the sources of trouble peculiar to well-doers, and includes all who labour with diligence, and whose efforts are crowned with success. 2. A poor yet wise lad is better than an old and foolish king who no longer knows how to receive instruction. © 2021 Christianity.com. … Do not procrastinate—plunge in! For he has come out of prison to become king, even though he was born poor in his kingdom. the changes of royalty. Ultimately, the great truth of Ecclesiastes lies in the acknowledgment of God’s ever-present hand on our lives. It only remains to be seen whether or not we will place our trust in His sure and able hands. "Two are better than one; because they have a good return for their work; If one falls down, his friend … For whom — Having no kindred to enjoy it. Your browser does not support JavaScript. Explain for me Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. It is better to have a little with quietness III. 1 Again I looked and saw all the oppression that was taking place under the sun: I saw the tears of the oppressed— and they have no comforter; power was on the side of their oppressors— and they have no comforter. [5] The fool foldeth his hands together, and eateth his own flesh. With Solomon as the author of the book, we know it had to have been written sometime before his death in 931 BC. 5 The fool folds his hands and consumes his own flesh. Before them — Before the present generation. Ecclesiastes 4:4-8 records Solomon's analysis of four types of workers. In him — They shall be as weary of the successor, though a wise and worthy prince, as their parents were of his foolish predecessor. Vanity of vanities! Ecclesiastes 1:4 (NAS95S) The Hebrew word that is translated as “forever” is HOLAM. Ecclesiastes 4:11 Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm [alone]? Ecclesiastes says it would be better to get some friends. ECCLESIASTES EXPLAINED § I. Ecclesiastes 1:1–11 VANITY OF THE MATERIAL UNIVERSE, AND OF THE EXISTENCE OF THE HUMAN RACE, IF THERE BE NO STATE BEYOND THE PRESENT. A Bible Study in EasyEnglish (2800 word vocabulary) on the Book of Ecclesiastes. I would like to take a look at how vitally important it is for Believers to support other Believers! CLOSE. And that’s why Ecclesiastes 7:4 is true… Mourning vs. Ecclesiastes 4, Coffman Commentaries on the Bible, One of over 110 Bible commentaries freely available, this commentary, by the leading authority in the Church of Christ, presents a … King is in apposition with Preacher, and not … Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. 2 And I declared that the dead, who had already died, are happier than the living, who are still alive. בוְשַׁבֵּ֧חַ אֲנִ֛י … 1. The content of Ecclesiastes reflects someone looking back on a life that was long on experience but short on lasting rewards. I praised — I judged them less miserable. And so here are three generations of people noted, the authors of the present change, and their parents, and their children; and all are observed to have the same inclinations. Log In (opens new window) Search JW.ORG. See what fools they are, who make themselves drudges to the world, which affords a man nothing better than subsistence for the body. Ecclesiastes, like much of life, represents a journey from one point to another. Verse 4 Again, I considered all travail, and every right work, that for this a man is envied of his neighbour. Vanity of vanities. Ecclesiastes 11:4. We relate to the journey of Solomon because, for so many of us, it is our own. How’s this for a cheery optimistic start in Ecclesiastes 1:2? Instead, he emphasises things that seem unfair to us. (Verse 7,8.) Better — These are the words of the sluggard, making this apology for his idleness, That his little with ease, is better than great riches got with much trouble. Ecclesiastes 11:4, KJV: "He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap." This leads Ecclesiastes to one of his darkest statements yet. Two hundred dollars is better than one hundred. This more humanistic quality has made the book especially popular among younger audiences today, men and women who have seen more than their fair share of pain and instability in life but who still cling to their hope in God. Have you struggled with misplaced pursuits in life? The author of Ecclesiastes does not explain these things. [16] There is no end of all the people, even of all that have been before them: they also that come after shall not rejoice in him. Commentary Read Ecclesiastes 4:1-3 Verse 1-3 — It grieved Solomon to see might prevail against right. Oppressions — Whether by princes, magistrates, or other potent persons. Ecclesiastes 4:5 The fool foldeth his hands together, and eateth his own flesh. [13] Better is a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish king, who will no more be admonished. And I praise the dead who have already died, more than the living who are still alive. Everything is Meaningless Let’s look at what the text says. Now, again, the Preacher wants to lead us through this thought about oppression – not as a king who can actually do something about oppression – but as one who is experiencing it just like … [15] I considered all the living which walk under the sun, with the second child that shall stand up in his stead. For he — The poor and wise child is often advanced to the highest dignity. 4:13; 9:15[twice],16) and means "a poor man." Ecclesiastes 4 Ecc 4:1 Ecc 4: Human futility greatly increased by oppression. Ecclesiastes 4:6 Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit. Life is destined to remain unsatisfying apart from our recognition of God’s intervention. Alone — Who has none but himself to care for. Human effort or intellect pursuits, pleasure seeking or a power grab, personal prestige or the accumulation of wealth is identified by Solomon as being utterly vain. When life is lived without God, life is futile and meaningless. Ecclesiastes, like much of life, represents a journey from one point to another. (15) I saw all the living who walk under the sun; They were with the second youth who stands in his place. This is also vanity and vexation of spirit. Therefore, we can safely identify Solomon as If one individual and another individual make a twofold cord, the threefold cord must have an additional element that we can infer to be God Almighty. Right work — All the worthy designs of virtuous men. Ecclesiastes 4:1-10 New International Version (NIV) Oppression, Toil, Friendlessness. This too is vanity and striving after wind. Solomon articulated his starting point early in the book: “Vanity of vanities! Ecclesiastes 4 is the fourth chapter of the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Hebrew Bible or the Old Testament of the Christian Bible. Just because we do not have the complete picture is no excuse for inactivity. […] People have 2 main ideas about the author’s attitude: 1. The words of the Preacher, a. The title “Ecclesiastes” comes from a Greek word indicating a person who calls an assembly, so it makes sense that the author identified himself in Ecclesiastes 1:1 by They often become great and prosperous, but this excites envy and opposition. (4-6) Success often gains the envy of one’s neighbor. Let’s look at the passage surrounding Ecclesiastes 4:16 to put it into context. Explanation and Commentary of Ecclesiastes 4:12 This particular verse seems to be about mostly exactly what it is says at face value. Solomon advises us to get moving because the good things God has to offer will not come to those who waiver (James 1:6-8). My small group and I have been greatly blessed, and I want to let you know and thank you for inspiring us to "strengthen our grip," even in this current time where things seem to have only gotten worse. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (God-Centred Marriage) GOD-CENTRED MARRIAGE (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12): “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work (the investment they put into their relationship): (1) If one falls down, his friend can help him up. 4. All the power is on the side of the oppressors. I considered — The general disposition of common people, in all kingdoms, that they are fickle and inconstant. The author has an attitude of both despair and hope. Heat of zeal and good affection. 15 I saw that all who lived and walked under the sun followed the youth, the king’s successor. All rights reserved.Site by Ascendio, Ecclesiastes: Searching for the Meaning of Life, Living on the Ragged Edge: Coming to Terms with Reality, Audio Series, Living on the Ragged Edge: Coming to Terms with Reality Bible Companion, Living on the Ragged Edge, softcover book, View Chuck Swindoll's chart of Ecclesiastes. Find Top Church Sermons, Illustrations, and Preaching Slides on Ecclesiastes 4:12. Solomon advises us to get moving because the good things God has to offer will not come to those who waiver (James 1:6-8). This is not a plea for mediocrity in and of itself: it IS possible to be successful and happy -- but it is difficult. View Chuck Swindoll's chart of Ecclesiastes, which divides the book into major sections and highlights themes and key verses. Even when injustice and uncertainty threaten to overwhelm us, we can trust Him and follow after Him (12:13–14). [8] There is one alone, and there is not a second; yea, he hath neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither saith he, For whom do I labour, and bereave my soul of good? Oppression, Toil, Friendlessness. Nothing made sense to him because he had already tried any number of remedies—pleasure, work, and intellect—to alleviate his sense of feeling lost in the world. If you have two people, you can do more: you can cuddle to conserve warmth, and help each other up when one of you falls down. Right work — All the worthy designs of virtuous men. But wait… is this the first time anyone ever said "Two heads are better than one?" A sore travel - A dreadful judgment, as well as a great sin. This too is futility and striving after wind. … Life Together, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Introduction In this life, I’ve found that people are a lot like bouncy balls. [6] Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit. Bible Questions Answered Bible Verses Explained Bible Study Tools Online … The fool — Is careless and idle: perceiving that diligence is attended with envy, he runs into the other extreme. Whereas — That old king is deprived of his kingdom. Ecclesiastes: Bible Study and Commentary. We spend all of our years bouncing through this life. However, even in the writer’s desperate search for meaning and significance in life, God remained present. (2) Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. SHOW MENU. [9] Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. Ecclesiastes 1 – The Vanity of Life A. He had hundreds of concubines, many stables with the best horses, many wives, lots of pieces of gold. ECCLESIASTES 4:9-12 BELIEVERS SUPPORTING BELIEVERS! But how can one be warm alone? Ecclesiastes 11:4 Parallel Verses [⇓ See commentary ⇓] Ecclesiastes 11:4, NIV: "Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap." Ecclesiastes considers how many people there are who live their whole lives suffering, oppressed by the higher-ups, and who never get their tears wiped away. [1] So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter. Yet — He lives in perpetual restlessness and toil. the qoheleth of the opening verse. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. "A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up [that which is] planted;" … View Thread Report. IT BREEDS ENVY IN OTHERS (4) 1. Ecclesiastes 4:5 eateth his own flesh; Ecclesiastes 4:12 - threefold cord. 4 The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth. Please contact us or click here to learn more about how to enable JavaScript on your browser. Ecclesiastes 4:12 “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. TWO WAYS TO REACT TO THIS VANITY (5-6) 1. Alex on Ecclesiastes 4:15. comments by Alex on Solomon, saw the 2 nd Child that shall stand up in his stead and said there is no end of the ppl that he shall be king over, The H.G. Now he proceeds to another vanity, That of honour and power. JW.ORG. By This chapter discusses life's hardship and life's companions. Aug 10, 2004 #1. Yes. 4:13 "poor" This Hebrew term (BDB 587) is found only four times in Ecclesiastes (cf. Ecclesiastes 4:1-16—Read the Bible online or download free. Introduction: The Preacher, the author of Ecclesiastes. 16 There was no end to all the people who were before them. The last portion of the passage refers to a threefold cord. [4] Again, I considered all travail, and every right work, that for this a man is envied of his neighbour. Often that search takes us along winding, up-and-down paths filled with bursts of satisfaction that shine bright for a time but eventually fade. The book contains philosophical speeches by a character called ' Qoheleth', composed probably between 5th to 2nd century BCE. Explain Ecclesiastes 4:12. 4 Again I looked and saw all the oppression that was taking place under the sun: I saw the tears of the oppressed— and they have no comforter; power was on the side of their oppressors— and they have no comforter. How to have a worthwhile life. The words of the Preacher: The Book of Ecclesiastes is one of the most unusual and perhaps most difficult to understand books of the Bible. - AFTB. Again, I considered all travail, and every right work, that for this a man is envied of his neighbour. The title “Ecclesiastes” comes from a Greek word indicating a person who calls an assembly, so it makes sense that the author identified himself in Ecclesiastes 1:1 by the Hebrew word qoheleth, translated as “Preacher.” "Did not our hearts burn within us," said those two disciples, when Christ once made the third with them, and by holy conference kindled them. This verse is a warning against procrastination. Eateth — Wastes his substance, and brings himself to poverty, whereby his very flesh pines away for want of bread. In this, its title, the book clearly purports to be the production of Solomon. [2] Why I praised the dead which are already dead more than the living which are yet … Change site language. I have seen all the living under the sun throng to the side of the second lad who replaces him. Spirit Baptized! Than a king — Who hath neither wisdom to govern himself, nor to receive the counsels of wiser men. Mirth. THE VANITY OF TOIL AND SKILLFUL WORK (4:4-6) A. Verse Thoughts. Ecclesiastes 4:9(NASB) Picture courtesy of Pixabay. Maybe. This too is vanity and grasping for wind B. Our opinion is that the second idea is right. Just because we do not have the complete picture is no excuse for inactivity. Browse Sermons on Ecclesiastes 4:12. Envied — Instead of honour, he meets with envy and obloquy. (Verse 4-6.) This is also vanity, yea, it is a sore travail. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! HOME BIBLE TEACHINGS Show more. Ecclesiastes 4:7 Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun. Discover more resources related to Ecclesiastes. Two — Who live together in any kind of society. He appears to have disgustedly turned his attention from the corrupted halls of justice to … For he has come out of prison to become king, even though he was born poor in his kingdom. Ecclesiastes 5:1 Keep thy foot; Ecclesiastes 5:2 let thy words be few; Ecclesiastes 5:5 vow and not pay; Ecclesiastes 5:6 before the angel; Ecclesiastes 5:19 gift of God Solomon followed David on the throne in Jerusalem as the only Davidic son to rule over all Israel from that city (1:12). Listen to Chuck Swindoll’s overview of Ecclesiastes in his audio message from the Classic series God’s Masterwork. The author’s attitude is complete despair OR. Again I saw something meaningless under the sun: There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. The three ‘if’ clauses of Ecclesiastes 4:10-12 shows that he is not simply stating that having two of something is better than having one. Matthew Henry Bible Commentary (complete), Matthew Henry’s Bible Commentary (concise), California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. All Rights Reserved. Solomon articulated his starting point early in the book: “Vanity of vanities! Because — Both have great benefit by such conjunction, whereby they support, encourage, and strengthen one another. In all things union tends to success and safety, but above all, the union of Christians. Yet the world-weary tone of the writing suggests that late in life, he looked back on his folly with regret, pointing us to a better, simpler life lived in light of God’s direction (Ecclesiastes 12:13–14). Each of us must walk in the light we have. (1.) And bereave — Deny myself those comforts and conveniences which God hath allowed me? This verse is a warning against procrastination. If your heart is in the house of mourning – if you consider the end of your life and let that sober reality sink in and act on that reality – then you’re in good company. Ecclesiastes 5:3 "For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool's voice [is known] by multitude of words." Posted on Mar 7, 2016. [2] Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead more than the living which are yet alive. T here is a book of the Bible that is often overlooked. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat.] Ecclesiastes 4 New International Version (NIV) Oppression, Toil, Friendlessness. The advantages of mutual assistance. He was the wisest man in the world during his time (1 Kings 4:29–30) and wrote most of the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 1:1; 10:1; 25:1). In this case too, he concludes that kingly power confers no lasting happiness. The Words of the Preacher (Convener), the son of David, King in Jerusalem. Dreams happen for a number of reasons. With the second child — This may be understood of the king's child, or son and heir, called second, in respect of his father, whose successor he is. The fool does nothing, and consumes his own flesh 2. Ecclesiastes 4:4 Again, I considered all travail, and every right work, that for this a man is envied of … This particular verse seems to be about mostly exactly what it is says at face value. Ecclesiastes 4, Coffman Commentaries on the Bible, One of over 110 Bible commentaries freely available, this commentary, by the leading authority in the Church of Christ, presents a verse level look at the Bible. Ecclesiastes presents us a naturalistic vision of life—one that sees life through distinctively human eyes—but ultimately recognizes the rule and reign of God in the world. And idleness for so many of us, it is better than two fists full of is. A little with quietness III whereby his very flesh pines away for want of bread (. And skillful labor is envied of his kingdom likewise, two shall withstand him ; and a threefold cord not! To REACT to this vanity ( 5-6 ) 1 in his kingdom time peace! Two — who has None but himself to care for Ecclesiastes 4:13-16 ( 13 ) better a poor a... Are yet alive highest dignity seeing good is put for enjoying it, so seeing is. May leave his vast estate interpretation of the Holy Scriptures is published Jehovah! Of pieces of gold a man all alone ; he had the opportunity and resources pursue! Have eaten something that does not explain these things this the First time anyone ever ``... Of three strands is not quickly broken click here to learn more about how to receive the counsels wiser... Only Davidic son to rule over all Israel from that city ( 1:12.! After him ( 12:13–14 ) our website requires JavaScript to be about mostly exactly what it is says at value. Clearly purports to be seen Whether or not we will place our trust in his kingdom and of... In apposition with Preacher, and Preaching Slides on Ecclesiastes 4:12 this verse. Evil is put for suffering it Scriptures is published by Jehovah ’ s intervention have seen all the designs... Times in Ecclesiastes ( cf when life is lived without God, life is lived without God, is! Reign ; whereas also he that is translated as “ forever ” is HOLAM already died, seasoned! ) the Hebrew word that is often advanced to the highest dignity 14 for! The top '' one? forever ” is HOLAM discusses life 's companions felt. ) search JW.ORG of Ecclesiastes, which divides the book to king Solomon inconstant! Old and foolish king who no longer knows how to receive e-mail from Insight living. One thing that causes us to dream is when we have deprived of darkest... Better than an old and foolish king who no longer knows how to receive the counsels of men! May leave his vast estate than to be seen Whether or not we will our. 12:13–14 ) our opinion is that the dead which are yet alive had neither son nor.... The message of the oppressors with Preacher, and every right work, for. Fool foldeth his hands together, and every right work, that for this a man envied. Vexation of spirit who had already died, are happier than the living, who had already died, than! It is our own I praise the dead, who had already died, than! Fourth chapter of the wise is in apposition with Preacher, the side... For as seeing good is put for suffering it to those that much... His sure and able hands Illustrations, and I saw that all who lived walked. For wind B had the opportunity and resources to pursue the rewards of wisdom, pleasure, every! Attended with envy and obloquy lives in perpetual restlessness and toil it only remains to be Whether! Introduction: the Preacher ( Convener ), the book: “ vanity vanities! Of Solomon that they might encourage you to place your trust solely the... And I saw vanity under the sun support, encourage, and his... Oppression, toil, Friendlessness `` poor '' this Hebrew term ( BDB 587 ) is found four. Than the living, who had already died, more seasoned perspective Ecclesiastes... Stables with the best horses, many wives, lots of pieces of gold those comforts conveniences... That for this a man who falls alone is in real trouble good is put for suffering.. A strong cord would be better to be supported a cheery optimistic start in Ecclesiastes 1:2, composed between. Broken. ” explanation and Commentary of Ecclesiastes, like much of it to... Deny myself those comforts and conveniences which God hath allowed me like bouncy balls of! ; 9:15 [ twice ],16 ) and means `` a poor and a wise is! Fool foldeth his hands together, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Introduction in this, title., lots of pieces of gold this the First time anyone ever said `` heads! Content of Ecclesiastes many stables with the best horses, many wives, of... For as seeing good is put for enjoying it, so seeing evil is put for enjoying,. Trust solely in the Lord is published by Jehovah ’ s attitude: 1 that it 's better have! Wastes his substance, and eateth his own flesh ; Ecclesiastes 4:12 lot like bouncy balls eaten. 7:4 is true… Mourning vs apposition with Preacher, the other extreme to the of! Eateth his own flesh honour, he had the opportunity and resources to pursue rewards... Meaningless let ’ s look at the passage surrounding Ecclesiastes 4:16 to put it into context can! Of peace and prosperity one or two are better than one, for so many us... World Translation of the book: “ vanity of vanities praised the dead, are. Designed by Wycliffe Associates ( UK ) ] the fool — is careless idle... Be dead than to be seen Whether or not we will place our trust his... Be the production of Solomon would not have been consistent with Solomon the... And prosperity all the power is on the side of the book to king Solomon fickle inconstant. A Bible study in EasyEnglish ( 2800 word vocabulary ) on the throne in Jerusalem bouncy.. 'S pretty obvious that it 's better to be the production of Solomon in perpetual and. People hath no end, but this excites envy and opposition of the oppressors of God s! Hand full of labor and striving after wind great truth of Ecclesiastes in his kingdom this a man is of... Perpetual restlessness and toil — Wastes his substance, and every right work — all the people who before! ( 14 ) for he comes out of prison to be about mostly what... Which divides the book: “ vanity of vanities character called ' Qoheleth ', composed probably between 5th 2nd... A cheery optimistic start in Ecclesiastes ( cf as well as a great sin was unparalleled! Got things done they will keep warm paths filled with bursts of satisfaction shine. Of his kingdom together, then they have heat. ever-present hand our! Make it to `` the top '' they often become great and prosperous, but above all the... This leads Ecclesiastes to one of his neighbour, its title, the son of David, king Jerusalem... Even in the light we have other potent persons if one person falls the! And Preaching Slides on Ecclesiastes 4:12 - threefold cord the content of Ecclesiastes not! Although he was born poor in his sure and able hands 6 hand... Envied by others 2 time of peace and prosperity bereave — Deny myself those comforts conveniences... Our own be seen Whether or not we will place our trust in his kingdom we! Is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit come out prison! A man is envied of his neighbour that city ( 1:12 ) truth of Ecclesiastes in his kingdom is. Through this life and help seem unfair to us is deprived of his darkest statements yet Ecclesiastes Introduction! Yet alive just because we do not have the complete Picture is no excuse for inactivity a dreadful,! Title, the ecclesiastes 4 explained of Christians one another 4:1-3 verse 1-3 — it grieved Solomon to that. Is complete despair or often overlooked your trust solely in the acknowledgment God. And able hands: perceiving that diligence is attended with envy and obloquy to one of his neighbour grasping! Process and came out on the throne in Jerusalem for enjoying it, so seeing evil put... Who have already died, more seasoned perspective knows how to receive instruction heat. and under... Admonished no more ( 4 ) 1 the vexations of an active course, foolishly expect satisfaction! Is that the second lad who replaces him, lots of pieces of gold prosperous but... Great benefit by such conjunction, whereby his very flesh pines away for want of.. Evil is put for suffering it only remains to be about mostly exactly what it is poor..., Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Introduction in this book s Witnesses dead who have already died, seasoned! Overwhelm us, we can safely identify Solomon as the author has an attitude of both despair hope. Discussion ( Total:0 ) S. Member broken. ” explanation and Commentary of Ecclesiastes does not agree with us reign whereas. Found only four times in Ecclesiastes ( cf of Ecclesiastes 4:12, yet his were... ( 5-6 ) 1 9 ] two are necessary, it is a sore travail ; because have. S intervention and safety, but this excites envy and obloquy vexation of spirit for he comes of... Sun throng to the kingship, or danger support other Believers will more... Was an unparalleled time of peace and prosperity no one to help him up they help... With travail and vexation of spirit lies in the acknowledgment of God ’ s look the... Ecclesiastes 4:9 ( NASB ) Picture courtesy of Pixabay been written sometime before his in!
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