Ecclesiastes 10:19

A feast is prepared for laughter, and wine makes life merry, but money is the answer for everything.

Study Bible

A feast is prepared for laughter
The phrase "a feast is prepared for laughter" suggests the intentionality behind gatherings and celebrations. In the Hebrew context, feasts were significant social and religious events, often associated with joy and community. The Hebrew word for "feast" (מִשְׁתֶּה, mishteh) implies a banquet or a drinking party, emphasizing the communal aspect of sharing food and drink. Historically, such feasts were times of joy and laughter, reflecting the blessings and abundance provided by God. The laughter here symbolizes the joy and fellowship that come from communal gatherings, highlighting the importance of relationships and shared experiences in human life.

and wine makes life merry
The phrase "and wine makes life merry" acknowledges the role of wine in enhancing joy and celebration. The Hebrew word for "wine" (יַיִן, yayin) is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of joy and blessing. Wine was a staple in ancient Near Eastern culture, often used in religious rituals and social gatherings. The phrase suggests that wine, when used appropriately, can bring happiness and enhance the enjoyment of life. It serves as a reminder of the balance between enjoying God's gifts and the potential for excess, as other scriptures caution against drunkenness. The merriment brought by wine is a metaphor for the joy and contentment that can be found in life's simple pleasures.

but money is the answer for everything
The phrase "but money is the answer for everything" presents a pragmatic view of the role of wealth in society. The Hebrew word for "money" (כֶּסֶף, keseph) refers to silver, which was a common medium of exchange in biblical times. This phrase can be interpreted as a commentary on the practical power of money to solve problems and facilitate various aspects of life. While the verse acknowledges the utility of money, it also invites reflection on the limitations and potential pitfalls of relying solely on material wealth. From a conservative Christian perspective, this phrase serves as a caution against the love of money, as warned in other scriptures, emphasizing that while money can address many earthly concerns, it is not the ultimate answer to life's deeper spiritual needs. The verse encourages believers to seek a balance, recognizing the role of money while prioritizing spiritual values and dependence on God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
- Traditionally considered the author of Ecclesiastes, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom, wealth, and writings.

2. Jerusalem
- The central place of worship and governance during Solomon's reign, often associated with the setting of his teachings.

3. Feasts
- Social and religious gatherings in ancient Israel, often involving food, drink, and celebration.

4. Wine
- A common beverage in biblical times, symbolizing joy and festivity but also caution against excess.

5. Money
- Represents material wealth and its influence on human affairs, a recurring theme in wisdom literature.

Teaching Points

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Pleasures
Feasting and wine bring temporary joy, but they do not provide lasting fulfillment. Christians are encouraged to seek joy in the Lord, which is eternal.

The Role of Money in Life
While money can solve many practical problems, it should not be the ultimate pursuit. Believers are called to use their resources wisely and for God's glory.

Balancing Enjoyment and Responsibility
Enjoyment of life’s pleasures is not inherently wrong, but it must be balanced with responsibility and stewardship. Christians should enjoy God's blessings without falling into excess.

The Danger of Materialism
The verse highlights the potential for materialism to overshadow spiritual values. Believers must guard against allowing money to become an idol.

Wisdom in Financial Stewardship
Understanding the role of money in life requires wisdom. Christians are encouraged to seek God's guidance in financial decisions and to prioritize generosity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Solomon's perspective on feasting and wine in Ecclesiastes 10:19 compare to other biblical teachings on joy and celebration?

2. In what ways can money be both a solution and a potential problem in our lives, according to biblical principles?

3. How can Christians find a balance between enjoying life's pleasures and maintaining spiritual priorities?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that money does not become an idol in our lives?

5. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament challenge or complement Solomon's observations in Ecclesiastes 10:19?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 21:17
- This verse warns against the love of pleasure and indulgence, which can lead to poverty, contrasting with the idea of feasting and merriment.

1 Timothy 6:10
- Discusses the love of money as a root of all kinds of evil, providing a counterbalance to the notion that money answers everything.

Luke 12:19-21
- Jesus' parable of the rich fool highlights the futility of relying solely on material wealth for security and happiness.

Proverbs 31:6-7
- Advises giving wine to those in distress, showing a nuanced view of wine as both a comfort and a potential danger.

Matthew 6:24
- Jesus teaches that one cannot serve both God and money, emphasizing the need for spiritual priorities over material wealth.