◄ Ecclesiastes 6 ►
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The Futility of Life 1There is another evil I have seen under the sun, and it weighs heavily upon mankind: 2God gives a man riches, wealth, and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires; but God does not allow him to enjoy them. Instead, a stranger will enjoy them. This is futile and a grievous affliction. 3A man may father a hundred children and live for many years; yet no matter how long he lives, if he is unsatisfied with his prosperity and does not even receive a proper burial, I say that a stillborn child is better off than he. 4For a stillborn child enters in futility and departs in darkness, and his name is shrouded in obscurity. 5The child, though neither seeing the sun nor knowing anything, has more rest than that man, 6even if he lives a thousand years twice over but fails to enjoy his prosperity. Do not all go to the same place? 7All a man’s labor is for his mouth, yet his appetite is never satisfied.a 8What advantage, then, has the wise man over the fool? What gain comes to the poor man who knows how to conduct himself before others? 9Better what the eye can see than the wandering of desire. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind. 10Whatever exists was named long ago, and it is known what man is; but he cannot contend with one stronger than he. 11For the more words, the more futility—and how does that profit anyone? 12For who knows what is good for a man during the few days in which he passes through his fleeting life like a shadow? Who can tell a man what will come after him under the sun? Footnotes: 7 a Hebrew filled 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 6 Summary The Futility of Life Verses 1–2 – The Heavy Burden of Unenjoyed Wealth Solomon points to a “grievous evil” in which God grants riches, possessions, and honor, yet the man who receives them cannot enjoy them because “a stranger consumes them” (v. 2). The picture is tragic: the goods are real, the ability to enjoy them is withheld, and the blessing becomes frustration. Verses 3–6 – Better the Stillborn Than a Dissatisfied Monarch A man might father a hundred children and live many years, yet die unsatisfied and be denied a proper burial. Solomon startlingly concludes that a stillborn child, who “comes in futility and departs in darkness” (v. 4), is better off. The point is not morbid but sharp: a life without contentment is emptier than a life never lived in the light. Verses 7–9 – Appetite Never Satisfied “All a man’s labor is for his mouth, yet his appetite is not satisfied” (v. 7). The Teacher exposes the endless cycle of desire. The eye longs for more, and even wisdom does not guarantee fulfillment if it is pursued merely for gain (v. 8). “Better what the eyes see than the wandering of desire” (v. 9). Verses 10–12 – God’s Sovereignty and Man’s Limits “Whatever exists has already been named” (v. 10). The Creator has fixed the boundaries. Humanity, called “man,” is weak and cannot contend with the One who is stronger. Life is brief and shadow-like, and no one can tell what comes after him under the sun (v. 12). Ecclesiastes 6 is a reflection on the deeper meaning of life, beyond material possession and desire. It provides a thoughtful contemplation on the unsatisfying nature of wealth and prosperity when separated from a life of purpose and understanding. Literary Setting within Ecclesiastes • Chapters 5–6 form a unit. Chapter 5 dealt with the misuse of words and wealth; chapter 6 exposes the emptiness that follows when wealth is gained but not enjoyed. • The book toggles between observation and counsel. Here the Teacher is in observation mode, emphasizing the futility he has seen “under the sun.” Historical and Cultural Background • Solomon reigned during Israel’s golden age (10th century BC), a time of unprecedented prosperity (1 Kings 4:20–28). The contrast between abundant wealth and widespread dissatisfaction would have been vivid. • A “proper burial” (v. 3) was vital in ancient Near Eastern culture. Denial of burial was viewed as a curse (Jeremiah 22:18–19). • Large families were normally considered a mark of blessing (Psalm 127:3–5), making the warning in v. 3 even more striking. Key Word and Phrase Study • “Grievous evil” (v. 1) – Hebrew ra‘ah kholiy, literally “a serious affliction,” used of life-threatening disease. Solomon paints discontent as a sickness, not a minor annoyance. • “Cannot enjoy” (v. 2) – implies the ability is withheld by God, reminding readers that pleasure itself is a gift, not merely a by-product of possessions. • “Appetite” (v. 7) – Hebrew nephesh, “soul” or “life.” The hunger Solomon describes reaches deeper than the stomach; it is a craving of the inner person. Connections to Other Scriptures • Rich fool parable: Luke 12:16-21 echoes Ecclesiastes 6: the man stores up goods but dies before he can enjoy them. • 1 Timothy 6:17-19 warns the wealthy not to set hope on riches but on God, “who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.” • Psalm 39:5 parallels v. 12: “Indeed, every man is but a breath.” • Job 14:1–2 shares the same imagery of fleeting life. • James 4:13-16 revisits the theme: boasting about tomorrow ignores God’s sovereignty and life’s brevity. Theological Insights Simplified • Possessions are a gift, but satisfaction is a greater gift that only God can grant. • God’s sovereignty (“already been named,” v. 10) sets human limits. Recognizing those limits is wisdom; fighting them is futility. • A stillborn child’s anonymity (vv. 3–5) underscores that meaning is not found in length of days or public honor but in relationship with the Giver of life. Archaeological & Cultural Notes • Excavations at Megiddo and Hazor reveal palatial structures adorned with exotic goods from trade routes Solomon controlled (cf. 1 Kings 10:22). The Teacher’s observations of wealth were grounded in visible reality. • Burial practices: Tombs in the Kidron Valley show the care given to family sepulchers. Lack of burial meant exclusion from communal memory—an unthinkable shame in Solomon’s day. • Record-keeping tablets from Mesopotamia detail large harems and numerous offspring among royalty, illustrating the “hundred children” hyperbole. Practical Applications 1. Hold wealth with an open hand. Enjoy what God gives, but do not assume you control the enjoyment itself. 2. Guard against restless desire. Contentment grows when we celebrate what our eyes already see (v. 9). 3. Remember life’s brevity. Planning is wise, yet humility demands we submit each plan to the Lord who “names” all things (v. 10). 4. Value inner wellbeing above external success. Without peace with God, even a king’s palace feels empty. 5. Measure a good life not by years or public acclaim but by faithfulness. Even a short, hidden life can be “better” in God’s economy. Summary Thought Under the sun, riches without enjoyment and life without contentment amount to a shadow. Above the sun, joy flows from recognizing every good thing—wealth, days, and the ability to savor them—as gifts from the God who has named us and numbered our steps. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 4:11-13 Paul speaks about learning to be content in all circumstances, emphasizing reliance on Christ for strength. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 This passage warns against the love of money and highlights the value of godliness with contentment. Matthew 6:19-21 Jesus teaches about storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, where they are temporary and vulnerable. Teaching Points The Vanity of Wealth Without Enjoyment Ecclesiastes 6:1-2 highlights the grievous evil of a man who has wealth, possessions, and honor but cannot enjoy them. This underscores the futility of material abundance without the ability to find satisfaction in it. The Futility of Long Life Without Contentment Verses 3-6 discuss the tragedy of living many years without finding joy or fulfillment. A stillborn child is considered better off than a person who lives long but is not satisfied with good things. The Insatiable Nature of Human Desire In verse 7, the Preacher notes that All a man’s labor is for his mouth, yet his appetite is never satisfied. This speaks to the endless cycle of human desire and the inability of earthly pursuits to truly fulfill us. The Limitations of Human Wisdom and Understanding Verses 8-9 question the advantage of wisdom over folly and emphasize the importance of contentment with what one has, rather than endless striving for more. The Sovereignty of God Over Human Life The chapter concludes with a reminder of God's sovereignty, as seen in verses 10-12, where it is stated that everything has already been named and known by God, and man cannot contend with Him. Practical Applications Seek Contentment in God Recognize that true satisfaction comes from a relationship with God, not from material possessions or achievements. Evaluate Your Pursuits Regularly assess your goals and desires to ensure they align with God's will and bring genuine fulfillment. Practice Gratitude Cultivate a heart of thankfulness for what you have, rather than constantly seeking more. Trust in God's Sovereignty Acknowledge that God is in control and that His plans for your life are ultimately for your good. People 1. The Wealthy Man This person is described as having wealth, possessions, and honor, yet lacks the ability to enjoy them. The text suggests that this inability to enjoy wealth is a grievous evil and a common affliction among men (Ecclesiastes 6:2). The Hebrew root for "wealth" (עֹשֶׁר, 'osher) emphasizes material abundance. 2. The Unfulfilled Man This individual has many children and lives many years but does not find satisfaction in life or receive a proper burial. The passage highlights the futility of life without contentment, suggesting that even a stillborn child is better off than this person (Ecclesiastes 6:3-5). 3. The Laborer This person toils and works hard but is never satisfied with what they have. The text reflects on the insatiable nature of human desires and the endless pursuit of more, which ultimately leads to vanity (Ecclesiastes 6:7). The Hebrew word for "labor" (עֲמָל, 'amal) conveys the idea of toil and hardship. 4. The Wise Man Although not directly mentioned in this chapter, the wise man is implied in the contrast between wisdom and folly. The text questions what advantage the wise have over fools if both are subject to the same fate of dissatisfaction and unfulfilled desires (Ecclesiastes 6:8). 5. The Fool This person is contrasted with the wise man, yet both are depicted as ultimately facing the same existential challenges. The futility of wisdom without fulfillment is a recurring theme in Ecclesiastes (Ecclesiastes 6:8). 6. The Seeker of Contentment This person is implied in the rhetorical questions about what is truly good for a person in life. The text suggests that seeking contentment and understanding one's place in the world is more valuable than the endless pursuit of material gain (Ecclesiastes 6:12). Places 1. The House of Wealth This refers to the accumulation of riches and material possessions. The chapter discusses how wealth can be a source of vanity and dissatisfaction if not enjoyed or if it leads to an unfulfilled life. The Hebrew root for wealth, "עֹשֶׁר" (osher), implies abundance but also highlights the transient nature of material gain. 2. The Realm of Unfulfilled Desires This is a metaphorical place where desires are never satisfied, despite having everything one might want. The text suggests that even if a person has wealth and honor, without the ability to enjoy them, it is meaningless. The Hebrew word "נֶפֶשׁ" (nephesh), often translated as "soul" or "desire," underscores the deep, intrinsic longing that remains unmet. 3. The Grave (Sheol) The chapter alludes to death as the ultimate equalizer, where all human efforts and achievements become irrelevant. The Hebrew term "שְׁאוֹל" (Sheol) is used to describe the grave or the abode of the dead, emphasizing the futility of earthly pursuits in the face of mortality. 4. The Land of Insatiable Appetite This conceptual place represents the endless cycle of human craving and consumption. The text highlights the futility of laboring for more when satisfaction is never truly attained. The Hebrew word "רָעָה" (ra'ah), meaning "appetite" or "desire," reflects the insatiable nature of human wants. Events 1. Observation of a Common Evil (Ecclesiastes 6:1-2) The chapter begins with the observation of a prevalent evil under the sun: "There is an evil I have seen under the sun, and it weighs heavily upon mankind: God gives a man wealth, possessions, and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires, but God does not enable him to enjoy them, and a stranger consumes them." The Hebrew word for "evil" (רָעָה, ra'ah) indicates something distressing or harmful, emphasizing the futility and injustice perceived by the author. 2. The Futility of Wealth Without Enjoyment (Ecclesiastes 6:3-6) The text describes a hypothetical man who has many children and lives many years but cannot enjoy his prosperity. "If a man fathers a hundred children and lives many years, however many they be, but his soul is not satisfied with good things and he does not even have a proper burial, I say that a stillborn child is better off than he." The Hebrew term for "soul" (נֶפֶשׁ, nephesh) refers to the inner being or life force, highlighting the emptiness of life without fulfillment. 3. The Insatiable Nature of Human Desire (Ecclesiastes 6:7-9) The passage reflects on the endless nature of human labor and desire: "All a man’s labor is for his mouth, yet his appetite is never satisfied." The Hebrew word for "appetite" (נֶפֶשׁ, nephesh) is again used, underscoring the perpetual longing and dissatisfaction inherent in human nature. 4. The Limitation of Human Wisdom (Ecclesiastes 6:10-12) The chapter concludes with a reflection on the limitations of human understanding and the predetermined nature of life: "Whatever exists has already been named, and what happens to a man is foreknown; but he cannot contend with one stronger than he." The Hebrew word for "named" (נִקְרָא, niqra) suggests the idea of being predetermined or established, indicating the sovereignty of God over human affairs. Lessons from Ecclesiastes 6 1. The Futility of Wealth Without Enjoyment Ecclesiastes 6:2 reminds us that "God gives a man wealth, possessions, and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires, yet God does not enable him to enjoy them." This verse highlights the emptiness of accumulating wealth without the ability to enjoy it. True contentment comes not from possessions but from a heart aligned with God's purpose. Remember, it's not about what you have, but how you cherish and use it for His glory. 2. The Vanity of Long Life Without Fulfillment In Ecclesiastes 6:3, we read, "A man may father a hundred children and live many years, yet no matter how long he lives, if he cannot enjoy his prosperity and does not receive a proper burial, I say that a stillborn child is better off than he." This stark comparison teaches us that a long life without fulfillment is meaningless. Seek to live a life rich in purpose and joy, grounded in your faith and service to others. 3. The Insatiable Nature of Human Desire Ecclesiastes 6:7 states, "All a man’s labor is for his mouth, yet his appetite is never satisfied." This verse speaks to the endless cycle of human desire. We often chase after things that never truly satisfy. Instead, find satisfaction in the spiritual nourishment that comes from a relationship with God, who alone can fill the void in our hearts. 4. The Limitations of Human Wisdom Verse 8 asks, "What advantage has the wise man over the fool?" This question challenges us to consider the limits of human wisdom. While wisdom is valuable, it is not the ultimate answer. True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord, as Proverbs 9:10 reminds us. Seek divine wisdom that leads to eternal understanding and peace. 5. The Importance of Contentment Ecclesiastes 6:9 advises, "Better what the eye sees than the wandering of desire." This lesson emphasizes the importance of contentment with what we have. Instead of constantly yearning for more, appreciate the blessings before you. Contentment is a powerful antidote to the restlessness of the human heart. 6. The Inevitability of Death Verse 6:10 states, "Whatever exists has already been named, and what man is has been known; no one can contend with one stronger than he." This reminds us of the inevitability of death and the futility of resisting God's sovereign plan. Embrace each day as a gift, living with an eternal perspective that prioritizes what truly matters. 7. The Futility of Many Words Ecclesiastes 6:11 warns, "For the more words, the more futility, and how does that profit anyone?" This lesson encourages us to be mindful of our words. In a world full of noise, choose to speak with purpose and intention. Let your words reflect the truth and love of Christ, bringing light to those around you. 8. The Mystery of God's Plan Verse 12 asks, "For who knows what is good for a man in life, during the few days of his futile life, which he passes like a shadow?" This question highlights the mystery of God's plan for our lives. Trust in His wisdom and timing, even when the path seems unclear. His plans are always for our good and His glory. 9. The Temporary Nature of Earthly Life Ecclesiastes 6:12 also reminds us that life is fleeting, "like a shadow." This perspective encourages us to focus on eternal values rather than temporary gains. Invest your time and energy in what will last beyond this life, such as relationships, love, and faith. 10. The Call to Live with Purpose Ultimately, Ecclesiastes 6 challenges us to live with purpose and intentionality. Recognize that every moment is an opportunity to glorify God and serve others. As you navigate the complexities of life, let your faith be the anchor that guides you toward a life of meaning and fulfillment. Topics 1. The Futility of Wealth Without Enjoyment The chapter begins by discussing the vanity of wealth and possessions when one cannot enjoy them. The Hebrew word "הֶבֶל" (hebel), often translated as "vanity" or "futility," underscores the fleeting and insubstantial nature of such wealth. Ecclesiastes 6:1-2 states, "There is an evil I have seen under the sun, and it weighs heavily upon mankind: God gives a man wealth, possessions, and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires, but God does not enable him to enjoy them, and a stranger consumes them. This is futile and a grievous affliction." 2. The Meaninglessness of Long Life Without Satisfaction The text continues by highlighting the emptiness of a long life if it is devoid of satisfaction and fulfillment. Ecclesiastes 6:3-6 reflects on the idea that even if a man lives many years and has many children, without contentment, his life is meaningless. The passage states, "If a man fathers a hundred children and lives many years, so that the days of his years are many, but his soul is not satisfied with life’s good things, and he also has no burial, I say that a stillborn child is better off than he." 3. The Insatiable Nature of Human Desire The chapter addresses the insatiable nature of human desires, emphasizing that no matter how much one has, it is never enough. Ecclesiastes 6:7-9 notes, "All a man’s labor is for his mouth, yet his appetite is never satisfied. What advantage, then, does the wise man have over the fool? What does the poor man gain by knowing how to conduct himself before others? Better what the eye sees than the wandering of desire. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind." 4. The Limitations of Human Understanding Finally, Ecclesiastes 6 concludes with a reflection on the limitations of human understanding and the inability to contend with God’s sovereign will. The Hebrew word "יָכֹל" (yakol), meaning "to prevail" or "to be able," is used to express the futility of human efforts against divine providence. Ecclesiastes 6:10-12 states, "Whatever exists has already been named, and what man is has been known; no one can contend with one stronger than he. The more words, the more futility, and how does that profit anyone? For who knows what is good for a man in life, during the few days of his futile life, which he passes like a shadow? Who can tell him what will happen under the sun after he is gone?" Themes 1. The Futility of Wealth Without Enjoyment Ecclesiastes 6:1-2 discusses the vanity of wealth when one cannot enjoy it. The Hebrew word for "vanity" (הֶבֶל, ^hebel^) suggests a sense of emptiness or meaninglessness. The passage highlights that God may give a person wealth, possessions, and honor, yet not allow them to enjoy these gifts, which underscores the transient nature of material wealth. 2. The Insatiable Nature of Human Desire In Ecclesiastes 6:3-7, the Preacher reflects on the endless nature of human desires. The text suggests that even if a man has many children and lives many years, if he cannot enjoy his prosperity, it is ultimately meaningless. The Hebrew term for "soul" (נֶפֶשׁ, ^nephesh^) in verse 7 indicates the deep, inner cravings that are never fully satisfied. 3. The Inevitability of Death Ecclesiastes 6:6 emphasizes that regardless of one's lifespan, all go to the same place—death. This theme is a reminder of the common destiny of all humanity, which renders earthly achievements and desires ultimately futile. 4. The Limitations of Human Understanding Verse 10-12 addresses the limitations of human understanding and the inability to contend with God. The Hebrew word for "contend" (דִּין, ^din^) implies a legal or argumentative struggle, suggesting that humans cannot argue against God's sovereign will or fully comprehend His purposes. 5. The Elusiveness of Contentment Ecclesiastes 6:9 advises that it is better to enjoy what one has than to desire what one does not. The Hebrew word for "sight" (רָאָה, ^ra'ah^) in this context implies perception or understanding, indicating that contentment comes from appreciating what is present rather than longing for what is beyond reach. Prayer Points Pray for Contentment Ask God to help you find satisfaction in Him and not in worldly possessions. Seek Wisdom Request discernment to understand the true value of your pursuits and to align them with God's purpose. Trust in God's Plan Pray for faith to trust in God's sovereignty and His perfect timing in your life. Gratitude for Blessings Thank God for the blessings you have and ask for a heart that is always grateful. As we reflect on Ecclesiastes 6, may we be reminded of the fleeting nature of earthly pursuits and the eternal satisfaction found in God alone. Answering Tough Questions 1. Ecclesiastes 6:2 – Does portraying God as granting riches but withholding enjoyment conflict with the Bible’s depiction of a just and benevolent deity? 2. Ecclesiastes 6:3 – How is it feasible for one man to have a hundred children in ancient times, given historical and demographic realities? 3. Ecclesiastes 6:6 – Is the mention of living “a thousand years twice” literal, and how does it align with known human lifespans? 4. Ecclesiastes 6:6 – If all go to the same place after death, how does this reconcile with scriptural teachings on differing eternal destinies? 5. Ecclesiastes 6:9–12 – Do these verses’ pessimistic tone and emphasis on life’s vanity contradict the Bible’s broader themes of hope and purpose? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the "evil under the sun" referred to in verses 1-2 suggest about the human condition and material wealth? 2. How does the perspective on life in verses 3-6 challenge common views about longevity and success? 3. Reflecting on verses 7-9, what does it mean for a person's appetite to never be satisfied? How does this relate to your own experiences? 4. In verses 10-12, what does the inability to argue with "Him who is mightier" reveal about human limitations and divine authority? 5. How can you apply the teachings of Ecclesiastes 6 to modern society's obsession with material success? 6. What changes can you make in your life to ensure you are not just amassing wealth, but truly enjoying it? 7. How does the concept of death shape our understanding of life according to Ecclesiastes 6? 8. Ecclesiastes 6 presents a seemingly pessimistic view of life. How can you reconcile this with a hopeful perspective on life? 9. How can you interpret "better what the eye sees than the roaming of the appetite" in a contemporary context? 10. What is the role of contentment in your life? How does it relate to your spiritual growth? 11. How can you use the wisdom in Ecclesiastes 6 to guide your decision-making processes? 12. How does this chapter inform your views on the balance between acquiring wealth and enjoying life? 13. In what ways does the "chasing the wind" analogy apply to your personal or professional life? 14. How can the teachings of Ecclesiastes 6 help us understand and navigate the societal pressures of wealth and success? 15. How does the concept of destiny in Ecclesiastes 6 affect your perspective on life and the afterlife? 16. How can the idea that "everything has been determined already" shape your understanding of freedom and predestination? 17. In what ways does Ecclesiastes 6 influence your understanding of human desire and its limitations? 18. How do the ideas presented in this chapter challenge or confirm your beliefs about the meaning and purpose of life? 19. How might the teachings of Ecclesiastes 6 inform your perspectives on societal inequalities related to wealth and opportunity? 20. What actions can you take in your life to cultivate a sense of fulfillment that goes beyond the material realm, based on the teachings of Ecclesiastes 6? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions