Why Study It?

• Why was the Old Testament written? (Rom 15:4, 1 Cor 10:11, and 2 Tim 3:16-17)

The theme of Ecclesiastes is the futility of everything when viewed from a purely earthly viewpoint. The world sometimes recognizes this at unexpected times, at the peak of success, they sometimes ask, “Is this all there is”?

• Is Fame enough? Robin Williams hanged himself in August 2014
• Is Accomplishment enough? Ernest Hemingway shot himself in July 1961
• Is Power enough? Cleopatra killed herself with poisons in 30 BC
• Are Riches enough? Eli M Black multi-millionaire CEO of United Brands leapt to his death out of a 44th floor window in Feb 1975

We know better, but with all of the troubles in the world, we can forget and face difficulties ourselves. Or, we can get so caught up in the race for pleasure and success in this world, we make it our goal and forget they won’t satisfy us.

Name

In Greek this book was named Ekklesiastes, based on translating the Hebrew term Qoheleth (#6953 assembler). We can recognize the Greek name as being similar to ekklesia (#1577 assembly). Both terms, Ekklesiastes and Qoheleth, describe a Preacher or Teacher who convenes or addresses an assembly. While not addressed to a physical assembly, this teacher addresses all, with a message that all need to hear.

Author

Although not named, the verses within Ecclesiastes clearly point to Solomon.

• Son of David (Ecc 1:1)
• Ruled Israel in Jerusalem (Ecc 1:12, 1 Kings 11:42)
• Later the divided kingdom left Israel ruled from somewhere else (1 Kings 12:20-21)
• Great riches (Ecc 2:7,9)

Solomon’s Background

• He was a son of David (1 Chronicles 28:5).
• David was a man after God’s heart (Acts 13:22)
• An afflicted family after David’s sin (2 Sam 12:10-11, 2 Sam 13:20,32 )
• Half-Brother Absolom rebelled (2 Sam 15:10)
• Given instruction by David (1 Chronicles 28:9-10)
• Asked for wisdom (1 Kings 3:5-10, 2 Chronicles 1:7-12)
• Famous for his wisdom (1 Kings 4:34)
• Attained Fame (1 Kings 10:6-7)
• Attained Riches (1 Kings 10:27)
• Turned to foreign women (1 Kings 11:1-4)
• Rebuked by God (1 Kings 11:9-11)
• Rebellion of servant Jeroboam (1 Kings 11:26)

When?

Unknown - many verses show that it was after obtaining great wealth. We also can’t imagine God inspiring him during his time of active rebellion against God.

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