Ecclesiastes: Quick Summary

[csberry]

"What is the meaning of life?" That is the key question that Ecclesiastes ponders. The book was written by King Solomon at some point during his rule. He talks about all that he's accomplished "under the sun" and how it has left him feeling unfulfilled. He surmises that both the wise man and the fool share the same fate - death. What can a wise person do to have a better life than a fool. Solomon discusses how one should work, but to not work too much; people shouldn't work to collect or create greater wealth, but to have what is needed to live and enjoy the fruits of one's labor. People shouldn't fear death or dread the end of life, but should live life according to God's commandments and have faith in God's plan for us all. The book boils down the long list of sayings from Proverbs and sprinkles them into this monologue by The Teacher (aka Solomon).

This book is currently the book I want to re-read first once I'm done with the Bible in 90 Days challenge. There is so much to ponder in this small-ish book that I'm hungry to re-examine what all is written here.

Fans of the Byrd's "Turn, Turn, Turn," will recognize the beginning of Ecclesiastes Chapter 3.