To show that all in life is “vanity” or in vain, meaningless, and incomprehensible without knowing God and doing His commands. “Fear God and keep His commands, this is the whole duty of man,” as the conclusion, that’s all there is to life! (cf. Eccl. 12:13). The book has a preachy tone and attributes its origin to “the preacher.” This man had tried every known venture in life there is in search of happiness. Thus, the book is also quite philosophical and even cynical of life.
Solomon was probably in his declining years or mid-life crisis and had tried virtually everything to find fulfillment in life to no avail. It was a warning to others not to do likewise and hopefully, the reader can learn from his mistakes, the author had become a philosophe: do as I say, not as I do! He had learned the hard way in the school of hard knocks despite his wisdom, proving the wise can be foolish too.
If we can find fulfillment and meaning in our work and obedience to God we can in the will of God. “God in heaven assigns each man’s work” (cf. John 3:21, NLT). God has a destiny and plan for us and our times are in His hands (cf. Job 23:14 Psalm 31:15; Jer. 29:11). Jesus prayed: “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do,” (cf. John 17:4, NIV). When King David died, it was said, “he had done God’s purpose,” (cf. Acts 13:36).
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