As Solomon opens this incredible book of wisdom, he begins with a hard question, a seeming dilemma of life - what's the point of it all? What do we gain from all of our labors and efforts in life? Solomon continues by giving examples of the endless cycles of life. Solomon concludes this section with a summary, emphasizing the fact that there is nothing new, nothing that changes the fundamental facts of our human existence, the human condition. As will be evident throughout Ecclesiastes, there is no lasting value or meaning in life apart from being rightly related to God through Jesus. A right relationship with God gives meaning to the meaningless, and purpose to the mundane.
As Solomon writes Ecclesiastes, as the teacher (Qohelet), he expresses various aspects that everyone experiences in life. Throughout Ecclesiastes, Solomon rehearses the frustration, futility, irony and fleeting nature of life. The difficulties that exist are described throughout Ecclesiastes as hevel or vanity (futility). This theme consistently appears throughout this wisdom literature. Together, all of these frustrations can be rightly engaged, only as we rightly engage God through his revealed word. God offers the perspective and strength that we need to endure the hardships, trials and frustrations that life presents. This is why Solomon calls everyone to fear God and to keep his commands – to follow his instructions. This will not take away the frustrations of life, but it does offer a proper framework by which view them.
