Eccl. 1:1-11, Introduction to Ecclesiastes (Purpose)

We believe that Solomon is “the Preacher, the Son of David” referred to in Eccl. 1:1.  Antiquity (the ancient Rabbis) say this is the case.  Solomon was, of course, a son of David.  And likewise, he was king over Israel from Jerusalem (Eccl. 1:12).  Further, we know Solomon to have a great connection with wisdom (Eccl. 1:16).  Thus, the writing of this treatise could be no later than 950BC.  The word “Preacher” refers to someone who assembles or addresses an assembly.  The word “Ecclesiastes” is Greek for church or assembly.

Here is a simple outline of Ecclesiastes:

1:1-11: Prologue (nothing new under the sun)

1:12-6:12: Vanity of all things

7:1-12:8: Words of wisdom

12:9-14: Epilogue (fear and obey God)

Let’s talk for awhile about the “purpose” of Ecclesiastes.  Here are a couple of statements to help us get started: 

This book describes an attempt to be happy without God.

Ecclesiastes describes the futility of the common way of thinking by humans.

Now you might question the first statement.  After all, you might say, the writer frequently acknowledges that God exists.  Further, the writer seems to know in various instances what God desires or expects.  There is no question that this is true. Notice in the above outline, the “epilogue” of the book.  So let us consider several truths that can help us see the powerful purpose of this great book, both in understanding the people around us and in reaching them with the gospel of Christ.

·       The key phrase in Ecclesiastes related to “purpose” is “under the sun” (1:3, and elsewhere).  This phrase has the effect of removing God in some sense.  He considers himself an expert on “all the works that are done under the sun” (1:14). 

·       Here’s another thought about Ecclesiastes: there are no references to YAHWEH.  The term for “God” is “Elohim.”  We have talked about this before, so let me just remind you.  “Elohim” is the name for God in Gen. 1; YAHWEH Elohim is the name in Gen. 2 when God describes Creation from the point of view of His relationship with man. 

There is more to be said on this so we will pick it up in the next post.