◄ Ecclesiastes 4 ►
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The Evil of Oppression 1Again I looked, and I considered all the oppression taking place under the sun. I saw the tears of the oppressed, and they had no comforter; the power lay in the hands of their oppressors, and there was no comforter. 2So I admired the dead, who had already died, above the living, who are still alive. 3But better than both is he who has not yet existed, who has not seen the evil that is done under the sun. 4I saw that all labor and success spring from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind. 5The fool folds his hands and consumes his own flesh. 6Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and pursuit of the wind. 7Again, I saw futility under the sun. 8There is a man all alone, without even a son or brother. And though there is no end to his labor, his eyes are still not content with his wealth: “For whom do I toil and bereave my soul of enjoyment?” This too is futile—a miserable task. 9Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. 10For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up! 11Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? 12And though one may be overpowered, two can resist. Moreover, a cord of three strands is not quickly broken. The Futility of Power 13Better is a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to take a warning. 14For the youth has come from the prison to the kingship, though he was born poor in his own kingdom. 15I saw that all who lived and walked under the sun followed this second one, the youth who succeeded the king. 16There is no limit to all the people who were before them. Yet the successor will not be celebrated by those who come even later. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Ecclesiastes 4 Summary The Evil of Oppression Verses 1–3 – Oppression Without Comfort Qoheleth surveys society and is overwhelmed by the tears of the powerless. With no one to stand beside them, the oppressed appear worse off than the dead, and those never born seem luckiest of all. Verses 4–6 – Toil Driven by Envy vs Contented Rest He notes that most effort flows from rivalry. Yet endless striving is “vanity.” Folding one’s hands in laziness is ruinous, but one peaceful handful of rest is better than two handfuls of frantic labor. Verses 7–8 – The Lonely Worker A solitary man amasses wealth with no family to share it. The question “For whom am I toiling?” exposes the emptiness of profit without relationship. Verses 9–12 – Strength of Companionship Two laborers gain more, lift each other up, keep warm, and stand firm in danger. A triple-braided cord—symbol of strong community—does not snap quickly. Verses 13–16 – The Rise and Fall of Leaders A poor yet wise youth can eclipse an obstinate old king. Crowds cheer the newcomer, but later generations forget him. Public acclaim, like everything “under the sun,” soon fades. Ecclesiastes 4 is a profound discourse by the Preacher that sheds light on the human condition. It deals with challenging themes of oppression, the need for companionship, and the pitfalls of greed and striving for power. It invites us to reflect on the vanities of life, offering timeless wisdom that still resonates today. Historical and Literary Context • Ecclesiastes emerged from the united-kingdom period, traditionally linked to Solomon (“son of David, king in Jerusalem,” 1:1). The royal vantage point explains the chapter’s sharp observations of power, labor teams, and court politics. • “Qoheleth” (the “Assembler” or “Speaker to the assembly”) writes in a style combining personal journal, sermon, and proverb. Chapter 4 alternates between narrative observation (vv. 1–3, 7–8, 13–16) and wisdom sayings (vv. 4–6, 9–12). Oppression in the Ancient World Archaeological digs at Megiddo and Hazor show administrative buildings used for forced labor storage during Solomon’s reign (cf. 1 Kings 9:15-22). Heavy taxation and corvée service often crushed the commoner—echoed here in the “tears of the oppressed” (4:1). Scripture consistently condemns such abuse: • Exodus 3:7 – “I have indeed seen the misery of My people.” • Amos 4:1 – “Women who oppress the poor… who crush the needy.” • James 5:4 – “The wages you failed to pay… are crying out.” Envy: A Hidden Engine of Productivity 4:4 states, “I saw that all toil and every skillful work is the result of envy between a man and his neighbor”. Compare: • Proverbs 14:30 – “Envy rots the bones.” • Galatians 5:26 – “Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” The verse is not anti-work—Qoheleth simply unmasks motives so readers pursue labor out of stewardship rather than rivalry. Rest and the One Handful Principle 4:6 praises “one handful of tranquility.” The Hebrew pictures an open palm, not a clenched fist. Parallels: • Exodus 20:8–11 – Sabbath rest. • Mark 6:31 – Jesus invites the disciples to “come away… and rest.” Healthy rhythm beats compulsive overtime or negligent laziness (Proverbs 6:10-11). Loneliness: A Silent Thief Qoheleth describes profit without companionship (4:8). Elijah felt similar isolation (1 Kings 19:10). Paul wrote, “At my first defense no one came to my support” (2 Timothy 4:16). Scripture answers with community: “God sets the lonely in families” (Psalm 68:6). Two Are Better Than One: Practical Benefits 1. Productivity: joint reward (v. 9). 2. Rescue: lifting up fallen partners (v. 10). 3. Warmth: survival of cold nights (v. 11). 4. Defense: standing back-to-back (v. 12). Marriage, friendship, ministry teams (Luke 10:1) and the church body (1 Corinthians 12) embody this design. The “threefold cord” may suggest two people plus the Lord (cf. Matthew 18:20) or simply the added strength of community over the individual. Ropes in the Archaeological Record Excavations at En-Gedi uncovered ropes woven from date-palm fiber, showing that a triple-twist produced superior durability—an everyday illustration Qoheleth could point to. Wise Youth vs. Obstinate King Rehoboam (1 Kings 12) mirrors the “old and foolish king” who would not heed counsel. Josiah, crowned at eight, pictures the “poor but wise youth” who reforms a nation (2 Kings 22-23). The fickle crowd that first exalts, then discards, recalls Jerusalem welcoming Jesus with palms, only to shout “Crucify Him!” days later (Matthew 21-27). Key Hebrew Words • ʿAshuqîm – “those being oppressed,” a legal term for victims of exploitation. • Hevel – “vanity,” literally vapor or breath, signaling evanescence rather than meaninglessness. • Ḥawlah – “cord,” a rope of entwined strands. Links to Other Wisdom Literature • Job 7:7’s “my life is but a breath” mirrors Qoheleth’s “all is vapor.” • Proverbs 27:4 warns, “Who can stand before jealousy?” echoing 4:4. • Psalm 133 celebrates unity, complementing 4:9-12’s corporate strength. New Testament Echoes • Acts 2:44-47 shows believers sharing possessions—antidote to lonely accumulation. • Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit” counters envy-driven toil. • Hebrews 13:3, “Remember those in prison,” aligns with concern for the oppressed and imprisoned youth (4:13-14). Practical Takeaways • Comfort the oppressed; silence is complicity. • Examine motives at work—is achievement fueled by service or rivalry? • Schedule “one handful” of restful margin every week. • Invest in relationships; wealth without companionship is hollow. • Partner in ministry, marriage, or friendship—God designed life as a team endeavor. • Hold applause loosely; public approval is fleeting, but wisdom and integrity endure. Conclusion Ecclesiastes 4 exposes injustice, envy, loneliness, and the transience of fame, yet offers a sturdy counterpoint: shared life grounded in humble wisdom. In every era, God calls His people to comfort victims, labor with pure motives, rest, and weave bonds strong enough to stand the strain of life “under the sun.” Connections to Additional Scriptures James 1:27 Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. This verse connects to the theme of caring for the oppressed. Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. This passage aligns with the call to evaluate our motivations and embrace humility. Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching. This encourages the value of companionship and community. Teaching Points The Reality of Oppression Ecclesiastes 4:1 highlights the prevalence of oppression in the world, where the oppressed have no comforter. This verse reminds us of the brokenness of humanity and the need for God's justice and mercy. The Futility of Toil Verses 4-6 discuss the vanity of labor driven by envy and rivalry. The Preacher observes that such toil is ultimately meaningless, akin to chasing after the wind. The Value of Companionship Verses 9-12 emphasize the importance of relationships, stating, Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. Companionship provides support, strength, and resilience. The Vanity of Isolation Verse 8 describes a man who is alone, without a companion, and questions the purpose of his toil. This highlights the emptiness of a life focused solely on personal gain. The Wisdom of Humility Verses 13-16 contrast the wisdom of a poor but wise youth with the folly of an old and foolish king. This teaches us the value of humility and the dangers of pride. Practical Applications Seek Justice and Mercy Be an advocate for the oppressed and seek ways to provide comfort and support to those in need. Evaluate Your Motivations Reflect on your work and ambitions. Are they driven by envy or a desire to glorify God? Invest in Relationships Prioritize building and maintaining meaningful relationships. Seek out companionship and community within the body of Christ. Avoid Isolation Recognize the dangers of isolation and strive to engage with others, sharing in both joys and burdens. Embrace Humility Cultivate a humble heart, recognizing that wisdom often comes from unexpected places and people. People 1. The Oppressed These are individuals who suffer under the power of others. The text highlights their lack of comfort and the tears they shed due to their oppression. The Hebrew root for "oppressed" (עָשׁוּק, 'ashuq) conveys being crushed or exploited. 2. The Oppressors These are the individuals or entities exerting power over the oppressed. They have power on their side, which they use to dominate others. The Hebrew root for "oppressors" (עֹשְׁקִים, 'osheqim) suggests acts of violence or injustice. 3. The Dead The text refers to those who have already died, suggesting that they are better off than the living who are still suffering. This reflects a perspective that death can be a release from earthly troubles. 4. The Living These are the people who are still alive and experiencing the struggles and vanities of life. The passage implies that their existence is filled with toil and competition. 5. The Unborn Ecclesiastes mentions those who have not yet been born, suggesting that they are in an even better state than the dead or the living because they have not experienced the evil under the sun. 6. The Fool This person folds their hands and ruins themselves, representing laziness and self-destruction. The Hebrew word for "fool" (כְּסִיל, kesil) often denotes someone who is morally deficient or lacking wisdom. 7. The Wise Worker This individual is characterized by their toil and skill, yet they are driven by envy of their neighbor. The text critiques the vanity of labor motivated by rivalry. 8. The Solitary Man This person has no family or companions, yet he toils endlessly. His isolation and lack of contentment highlight the futility of labor without relational fulfillment. 9. The Companion Ecclesiastes speaks to the value of companionship, emphasizing that two are better than one for mutual support and strength. The Hebrew root for "companion" (חָבֵר, chaver) implies a close associate or friend. 10. The King The passage refers to a king who rises from poverty to power, illustrating the transient nature of authority and the cyclical nature of human endeavors. Places 1. Place of Oppression This refers to the societal and personal situations where individuals face injustice and suffering. The Hebrew root for oppression, "עָשַׁק" (ashaq), conveys the idea of being wronged or exploited. 2. Place of Toil and Labor This is the environment where individuals work hard, often driven by envy or competition. The Hebrew word for toil, "עָמָל" (amal), suggests laborious work or trouble. 3. Place of Solitude This is the state of being alone, without companionship, which is described as undesirable. The text highlights the importance of companionship, as two are better than one. 4. Place of Companionship This represents the supportive and beneficial relationships that provide help and comfort. The Hebrew concept of companionship emphasizes mutual support and strength. 5. Place of Vanity This is the existential realization of the futility and transient nature of human efforts and achievements. The Hebrew word "הֶבֶל" (hebel) is often translated as vanity or breath, indicating something fleeting or insubstantial. Events 1. Observation of Oppression (Ecclesiastes 4:1) The Preacher observes the oppression that exists under the sun, noting the tears of the oppressed who have no comforter. The Hebrew word for "oppression" (עָשַׁק, `ashaq`) conveys a sense of being wronged or exploited. 2. The Dead and the Unborn (Ecclesiastes 4:2-3) The Preacher concludes that the dead are more fortunate than the living, and even more so, those who have not yet been born, as they have not seen the evil done under the sun. This reflects a deep sense of the futility and suffering in the world. 3. The Futility of Toil (Ecclesiastes 4:4) The Preacher notes that all labor and skillful work come from a man's envy of his neighbor. This too is vanity and a striving after wind. The Hebrew word for "vanity" (הֶבֶל, `hebel`) suggests something fleeting or meaningless. 4. The Folly of Idleness (Ecclesiastes 4:5) The fool folds his hands and consumes his own flesh. This imagery highlights the self-destructive nature of laziness. 5. The Value of Contentment (Ecclesiastes 4:6) Better is a handful of quietness than two handfuls of toil and striving after wind. This emphasizes the value of contentment over relentless pursuit of wealth. 6. The Loneliness of Wealth (Ecclesiastes 4:7-8) The Preacher describes a man who is alone, without a son or brother, yet toils endlessly for wealth. This highlights the emptiness of wealth without companionship. 7. The Benefits of Companionship (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12) Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labor. If one falls, the other can lift him up. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. This passage underscores the strength and support found in companionship. 8. The Vanity of Political Power (Ecclesiastes 4:13-16) The Preacher reflects on the futility of political power, noting that a poor and wise youth is better than an old and foolish king who no longer heeds warnings. Despite the youth's rise to power, future generations will not rejoice in him, illustrating the transient nature of fame and authority. Lessons from Ecclesiastes 4 1. The Power of Companionship In Ecclesiastes 4:9, we read, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor." This verse highlights the importance of companionship and collaboration. Whether in work, ministry, or personal life, having a partner or a team can amplify your efforts and lead to greater success. Just as Jesus sent out His disciples in pairs, we too are encouraged to seek out and cherish relationships that uplift and support us. 2. The Strength in Unity Verse 12 states, "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." This imagery of a threefold cord reminds us of the strength found in unity. When we stand together with others, especially in faith, we are less likely to falter. This principle is a call to build strong, supportive communities that reflect the unity of the body of Christ. 3. The Value of Support in Times of Trouble Ecclesiastes 4:10 tells us, "For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion." Life is full of challenges, and having someone to lean on during tough times is invaluable. This verse encourages us to be that supportive friend or family member who helps others rise when they stumble, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ. 4. The Futility of Envy Verse 4 observes, "I saw that all labor and all achievement spring from man’s envy of his neighbor." Envy can drive us to work tirelessly, but it ultimately leads to dissatisfaction. Instead of comparing ourselves to others, we should focus on our unique God-given purpose and talents, finding contentment in fulfilling His will for our lives. 5. The Dangers of Isolation In verse 8, we read about a man who is alone, without a companion, and never satisfied with his wealth. This serves as a warning against isolation and the pursuit of material gain at the expense of relationships. True fulfillment comes from meaningful connections and serving others, not from accumulating possessions. 6. The Importance of Rest Ecclesiastes 4:6 states, "Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind." This verse reminds us of the importance of balance and rest. In our fast-paced world, it's easy to become consumed by work, but God calls us to find peace and rest in Him, trusting that He will provide for our needs. 7. The Wisdom of Listening Verse 13 says, "Better a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to take warning." Wisdom is not about age or status but about the ability to listen and learn. We are encouraged to remain teachable and open to God's guidance, no matter our position in life. 8. The Transience of Popularity Ecclesiastes 4:16 notes, "There is no end to all the people who were before them, yet those who come later will not rejoice in him." Popularity and fame are fleeting. Instead of seeking the approval of others, we should focus on living a life that honors God, knowing that His approval is eternal. 9. The Reality of Oppression Verse 1 highlights the oppression and suffering in the world: "I saw the tears of the oppressed, and they have no comforter." This verse calls us to be agents of change and comfort, reflecting God's justice and mercy. We are reminded to stand up for the oppressed and be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. 10. The Pursuit of Meaningful Work Finally, Ecclesiastes 4:5 warns, "The fool folds his hands and ruins himself." This verse encourages us to engage in meaningful work, not out of envy or compulsion, but as a way to glorify God and serve others. Our work should be an expression of our faith, done with integrity and purpose, knowing that it contributes to God's kingdom. Topics 1. Oppression and Suffering (Ecclesiastes 4:1-3) The chapter begins with an observation of the oppression and suffering in the world. The Preacher notes, "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." The Hebrew word for "oppression" (עָשַׁק, 'ashaq) conveys a sense of exploitation and injustice, highlighting the harsh realities faced by many. 2. The Futility of Toil (Ecclesiastes 4:4-6) The Preacher reflects on the futility of labor driven by envy and rivalry. "And I saw that all labor and all achievement spring from man’s envy of his neighbor. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind." The Hebrew term for "meaningless" (הֶבֶל, hebel) suggests a vapor or breath, emphasizing the transient and elusive nature of such pursuits. 3. The Value of Companionship (Ecclesiastes 4:7-12) The text underscores the importance of companionship and mutual support. "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor." The passage highlights the benefits of partnership, such as mutual assistance and protection, using the Hebrew concept of "better" (טוֹב, tov), which implies goodness and advantage. 4. The Vanity of Political Power (Ecclesiastes 4:13-16) The chapter concludes with a reflection on the vanity of political power and popularity. "Better a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to take warning." The narrative illustrates the fleeting nature of political favor and the Hebrew word for "better" (טוֹב, tov) again emphasizes the superiority of wisdom over status. Themes 1. The Oppression of the Helpless Ecclesiastes 4:1 highlights the theme of oppression: "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." The Hebrew word for "oppression" (עָשַׁק, 'ashaq) conveys a sense of exploitation and injustice, emphasizing the plight of those who suffer without relief. 2. The Futility of Envy and Rivalry Verses 4-6 discuss the vanity of labor driven by envy: "I saw that all labor and all success spring from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind." The Hebrew term for "envy" (קִנְאָה, qinah) suggests a destructive competitiveness that leads to dissatisfaction and emptiness. 3. The Value of Companionship Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 underscores the importance of companionship: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor... Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." The passage emphasizes the strength and support found in relationships, contrasting the isolation of individualism. 4. The Transience of Power and Popularity Verses 13-16 reflect on the fleeting nature of power and popularity: "Better a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer knows how to take warning... There was no end to all the people who were before them, yet those who came later were not pleased with the successor." This theme highlights the temporary and often unsatisfying nature of human achievements and status. Prayer Points Pray for the oppressed and ask God to use you as an instrument of His justice and mercy. Seek God's guidance in evaluating your work and ambitions, asking for pure motives that honor Him. Pray for strong, godly relationships and the wisdom to invest in them. Ask God to help you avoid isolation and to find joy and purpose in community. Pray for a humble heart, open to learning and growing in wisdom. Answering Tough Questions 1. Ecclesiastes 4:1 speaks of oppression but offers no clear solution—why doesn’t the text explicitly condemn or address the oppressors? 2. In Ecclesiastes 4:2–3, the speaker says the dead or unborn are more fortunate than the living—does this contradict the Bible’s overall respect for life? 3. Ecclesiastes 4:5–6 appears to favor quietness over hard work—how is this consistent with scriptures that commend diligence (e.g., Proverbs 6:6–8)? 4. Ecclesiastes 4:7–8 emphasizes the vanity in labor for one without an heir—does this conflict with the Bible’s call to stewardship and fruitful living? 5. Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 promotes partnership, yet 4:13–16 points to the fleeting nature of leadership—does this suggest a contradiction in views on societal structure? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the Preacher's view on oppression in verses 1-3 challenge or affirm your understanding of suffering in the world? 2. Reflect on a time when envy has driven your actions. How did it impact your satisfaction and peace? 3. How does the portrayal of the lonely individual in verses 7-8 resonate with modern society's focus on individual achievements? 4. What does the Preacher's favoring of quietness and few possessions over toil and striving (verses 4-6) say about our society's values? 5. In what ways have you experienced the benefits of companionship as described in verses 9-12? 6. How can the principle of a "cord of three strands" (verse 12) apply in your personal relationships, community, and church? 7. How do you interpret the Preacher's observation about the transitory nature of popularity and power (verses 13-16)? 8. How can the concepts in this chapter guide your life decisions and interactions with others? 9. How does the wisdom in Ecclesiastes 4 challenge or affirm your current lifestyle and priorities? 10. In a world that often praises solitary success, how can we actively cultivate the companionship Ecclesiastes 4 extols? 11. How can we balance the healthy desire for achievement with the wisdom of not succumbing to relentless toil and envy? 12. How does the Preacher's insight into oppression influence your perspective on social justice and your role in it? 13. How does this chapter of Ecclesiastes guide us in our perspective on career and ambition? 14. How can the principle of the 'threefold cord' be applied to strengthen marriages and families in your community? 15. Given the fleeting nature of popularity and power, what should be the lasting qualities that Christians should strive for? 16. How can Ecclesiastes 4 be used as a tool for self-examination of one's life purpose and direction? 17. How do you interpret the Preacher's comparison between a wise youth and an old, foolish king (verses 13-14)? 18. How can the church use the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 4 to guide its community programs and initiatives? 19. How can you implement the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 4 in your daily interactions and relationships? 20. How does this chapter help you understand the biblical perspective on contentment, companionship, and the quest for power? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions