By Larry Broughton Jr.
Your Pastor Speaks
With the summer season coming to a close, children, young adults, and perhaps even older adults will soon be leaving behind the leisure activities of summer and entering the halls of academia.
Children and teens ranging from grades K–12, as well as adults entering higher education, all have the same goal in mind. Whether it’s an elementary student learning how to read, a middle school student improving their ability to solve algebraic equations, or a college student hoping to land the perfect career upon graduation, they all aspire to increase in wisdom and in knowledge.
One of the most notable kings of ancient Israel, King Solomon who made the request from God for wisdom (1 Kings 3: 5–12), which God ultimately granted. However, Solomon in the book of Ecclesiastes gives the reader insight into the hollow pursuit of wisdom apart from God.
In the book of Ecclesiastes, the term “vanity” (Hebrew word, “hevel”) occurs thirty-eight times in the book and has formed the motto of Ecclesiastes, “vanity of vanities.” The term “hevel” sometimes translated as “vanity” or “vapor” suggests something that is transient, meaningless, fleeting, or insubstantial. Solomon uses this term to express the idea that many human pursuits and achievements lack lasting value or significance.
Solomon uses this term in verse 2 of chapter 1 when he writes, “Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher (Solomon), Vanity of vanities! All is vanity.” What Solomon is doing here is making a broad statement about the nature of human pursuits and the quest for meaning. He’s reflecting on his life, and how despite all his efforts, and achievements, nothing provided the lasting satisfaction, true purpose or hope. The futility of human striving and the quest for meaning in a world where that is temporary and inconsequential. Particularly in regard to wisdom (Eccl 2:24 – 26), not things or wisdom is the giver of joy and satisfaction, it is God alone who is the giver of such things.
Solomon most likely penned the book of Ecclesiastes during a time when his love for God had been overshadowed by worldly pleasures. Despite his political success and the accumulation of wealth and knowledge, these pursuits ultimately proved hollow and unfulfilling.
Throughout Ecclesiastes, there is an underlying tone of repentance and humility as Solomon reflects on his past values and pursuits. He recognizes that nothing “under the sun” can provide true meaning to life. All the things that we call the “goods” of life – health, wealth, and prosperity will in time all pass away.
Ultimately, Solomon concludes that fearing the Lord and keeping His commandments (Eccl. 12:13-14) is the only path to a meaningful and abundant life. Although he acknowledges the limitations of earthly pleasures, Solomon encourages us to embrace joy and see life as a gift from God.
These pleasures, while not capable of offering lasting satisfaction, are to be enjoyed as divine gifts from a sovereign God.
Larry Broughton Jr. is a student of The Master’s Seminary in Los Angeles California. He is assistant to Pastor John Young of First Baptist Church in Sidney OH. Larry resides in Wapakoneta with his wife Sarah and their children.
