Ecclesiastes 1:11

KJV

[There is] no remembrance of former [things]; neither shall there be [any] remembrance of [things] that are to come with [those] that shall come after.

KJV (with Strong's)

There is no remembrance {H2146} of former {H7223} things; neither shall there be any remembrance {H2146} of things that are to come {H314} with those that shall come after {H314}.

Complete Jewish Bible

No one remembers the people of long ago; and those to come will not be remembered by those who come after them.

Berean Standard Bible

There is no remembrance of those who came before, and those yet to come will not be remembered by those who follow after.

American Standard Version

There is no remembrance of the former generations; neither shall there be any remembrance of the latter generations that are to come, among those that shall come after.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 1:11 presents a poignant reflection on the ephemeral nature of human memory and legacy, serving as a foundational statement for the Preacher's overarching declaration of "vanity" or "futility" (Hebrew: _hebel_) in earthly pursuits. This verse asserts that just as the accomplishments and lives of past generations have largely faded into oblivion, so too will those of the present be forgotten by future inhabitants of the earth, underscoring the profound transience of all human endeavors when viewed from a purely temporal perspective "under the sun."

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed early in the Book of Ecclesiastes, immediately following Qoheleth’s initial observations on the monotonous and seemingly meaningless cycles of the natural world and human toil. Having surveyed the sun's ceaseless journey, the wind's endless circuits, and rivers' perpetual flow without filling the sea, as detailed in [Ecclesiastes 1:5-7](/ecclesiastes/1-5-7 "Ecclesiastes 1:5-7 - The Repetitive Cycles of Nature"), the Preacher shifts his focus to the human experience. The preceding verse, [Ecclesiastes 1:10](/ecclesiastes/1-10 "Ecclesiastes 1:10 - Nothing New Under the Sun"), directly introduces the idea that "there is no remembrance of former things," setting the stage for verse 11 to expand this concept by extending the principle of forgetfulness to future generations. This reinforces the pervasive theme of "hebel" (vanity/futility) first articulated in [Ecclesiastes 1:2](/ecclesiastes/1-2 "Ecclesiastes 1:2 - Vanity of Vanities"), establishing a critical premise for the Preacher's subsequent philosophical explorations into the meaning of life.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Book of Ecclesiastes, traditionally attributed to King Solomon (Qoheleth, "the Preacher" or "Teacher"), emerges from the wisdom tradition of ancient Israel, yet it offers a uniquely skeptical and introspective perspective. In ancient Near Eastern societies, the pursuit of a lasting name, a significant legacy, and numerous progeny were paramount for achieving a form of immortality and remembrance. Kings, scribes, and even common people strove to leave their mark, often through monumental building projects, written records, or a flourishing family line. The Preacher’s radical questioning of these deeply ingrained cultural aspirations, asserting that even memory itself is fleeting, would have been profoundly counter-cultural. This challenges the very foundations of societal efforts to secure a lasting legacy, suggesting that human endeavors in this regard are ultimately futile in the grand scheme of time. This perspective stands in stark contrast to, though it complements, other wisdom literature like Proverbs, which often emphasizes the enduring benefits of righteous living and the blessed memory of the just.

* **Key Themes:** Ecclesiastes 1:11 powerfully contributes to several core themes woven throughout the book. Firstly, it emphatically underscores the **transience of human memory and legacy**. By stating that neither past nor future achievements will be remembered, the verse highlights the impermanence of human fame, accomplishments, and even the very existence of past generations. This directly feeds into the pervasive theme of **futility (hebel)**, suggesting that striving for earthly recognition or a lasting mark is ultimately a pursuit of "wind" or "chasing after the wind," as expressed in [Ecclesiastes 1:14](/ecclesiastes/1-14 "Ecclesiastes 1:14 - Striving After Wind"). Secondly, it reinforces the **cyclical nature of existence**, echoing the natural cycles observed earlier in [Ecclesiastes 1](/ecclesiastes/1 "Ecclesiastes 1 - The Preacher's Quest for Meaning"). Just as the sun rises and sets, and rivers flow endlessly, so too do generations come and go, each fading into obscurity, making way for the next to experience the same fleeting reality. This relentless cycle contributes to the Preacher's sense of weariness and the apparent lack of true novelty "under the sun," a sentiment articulated in [Ecclesiastes 1:9](/ecclesiastes/1-9 "Ecclesiastes 1:9 - Nothing New Under the Sun").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **remembrance (Hebrew, _zikrôwn'_):** From the root _zakar_ (to remember), this noun (H2146) denotes a memento, a memorable thing, a record, or a memorial. In Ecclesiastes 1:11, it refers to the collective human memory or historical record. The Preacher's point is that this 'remembrance,' which might otherwise grant a form of earthly immortality or lasting impact, is itself impermanent and will eventually vanish for both past and future generations.
* **former (Hebrew, _riʼshôwn'_):** Derived from _riʼshâh_ (first), this adjective (H7223) signifies "first," "before," "of old time," or "past." Here, it specifically refers to "former things" or "things that were before," encompassing all the events, people, and achievements of previous generations. The use of this term emphasizes the vast expanse of time and the countless forgotten histories that precede the current moment, highlighting the brevity of human impact.
* **to come (Hebrew, _ʼachărôwn'_):** From _ʼachăr_ (to be behind), this word (H314) means "hinder," "late," "last," or "after." In this context, it refers to "things that are to come" and "those that shall come after." It projects the same principle of forgetfulness into the future, highlighting that the current generation, and its deeds, will likewise be forgotten by those who follow, completing the cycle of temporal oblivion and reinforcing the book's theme of futility.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"[There is] no remembrance of former [things];"**: This initial clause establishes the core lament: the absence of lasting memory for what has already transpired. It suggests that the vast tapestry of human history, with its myriad accomplishments, struggles, and lives, has largely faded from the collective consciousness. This is not merely about individual forgetfulness but a broader societal or historical amnesia, implying that even significant human achievements eventually lose their place in the shared human narrative.
* **"neither shall there be [any] remembrance of [things] that are to come"**: This clause extends the principle of forgetfulness into the future, creating a symmetrical despair. It asserts that even the events and achievements of the present generation, which seem so significant and impactful to those living them, will eventually be forgotten by subsequent generations. This negates any hope of lasting recognition or fame for current human endeavors, reinforcing the Preacher's bleak assessment of life "under the sun."
* **"with [those] that shall come after."**: This concluding phrase clarifies the agents of forgetfulness. It is the succeeding generations, the "those that shall come after," who will not retain memory of what came before them. This emphasizes the continuous, relentless march of time, where each new wave of humanity effectively erases the distinct imprint of its predecessors, reinforcing the Preacher's argument for the ultimate futility of earthly pursuits for lasting fame or legacy.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 1:11 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of transience and futility. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically of the word "remembrance" (H2146), which appears twice. This repetition underscores the pervasive and inescapable nature of forgetfulness, applying it equally to the past and the future. The verse also utilizes a striking form of **Parallelism**, contrasting "former things" with "things that are to come," creating a balanced yet profoundly bleak statement about the universal scope of human oblivion. This structural symmetry highlights the inescapable cycle of forgotten history. There is also an element of **Irony** in the Preacher's declaration: while he himself is recording these observations for future generations in a book intended to be remembered, he simultaneously states that those generations will forget. This highlights the inherent paradox of striving for a lasting legacy in a world where memory is fleeting. The overall **Tone** is one of profound melancholy and resignation, characteristic of Qoheleth's initial observations "under the sun."

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ecclesiastes 1:11, while seemingly pessimistic, serves as a crucial theological counterpoint to human pride and self-sufficiency. It challenges the human inclination to seek ultimate meaning and lasting significance in earthly achievements, fame, or legacy. From a biblical perspective, the fleeting nature of human memory contrasts sharply with the eternal and perfect remembrance of God. While human efforts and names may fade into obscurity, God's knowledge and remembrance are everlasting. This verse implicitly points to the need for a transcendent hope, one not rooted in the ephemeral "under the sun" realities, but in the enduring character and purposes of the Creator. It sets the stage for the book's eventual conclusion, which calls for fearing God and keeping His commandments, recognizing that true meaning and lasting significance are found only in relationship with Him, whose memory and judgment are eternal.

* [Proverbs 10:7](/proverbs/10-7 "Proverbs 10:7 - The Memory of the Just")
* [Psalm 103:14-16](/psalms/103-14-16 "Psalm 103:14-16 - Man's Frailty, God's Steadfast Love")
* [Isaiah 40:6-8](/isaiah/40-6-8 "Isaiah 40:6-8 - The Enduring Word of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ecclesiastes 1:11, though initially disquieting, offers profound liberation and a necessary reorientation of priorities. If human memory and earthly legacy are truly so fleeting, then the relentless pressure to achieve perpetual fame or leave an indelible mark on history is revealed as a "striving after wind." This understanding frees us from the exhausting pursuit of external validation and encourages a deeper introspection into what truly holds lasting value. Instead of agonizing over what future generations will remember of us, we are invited to focus on living faithfully in the present moment, stewarding the gifts and opportunities God has given us, and investing in eternal realities. Our ultimate purpose is not to be remembered by man, but to be known by God and to live for His glory. This perspective encourages humility, contentment, and a redirection of energy from building earthly monuments to cultivating a vibrant, obedient relationship with our Creator, whose remembrance is eternal and whose purposes endure beyond the fleeting cycles of human history.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the Preacher's observation about the transience of memory challenge your own aspirations for legacy or recognition?**
* **If human memory is fleeting, where do you find lasting significance and purpose in your life?**
* **How might focusing on God's eternal remembrance, rather than human memory, change your daily priorities and actions?**
* **What does this verse teach us about the importance of living fully in the present, rather than constantly striving for future recognition?**

### FAQ
**Does Ecclesiastes 1:11 suggest that all human effort is meaningless?**

Answer: Not necessarily "meaningless" in an absolute sense, but rather "futile" or "vain" (Hebrew: _hebel_) when pursued as an end in itself, particularly in the context of achieving lasting earthly remembrance or ultimate satisfaction. The Preacher's point is that human efforts, when viewed "under the sun" (i.e., from a purely earthly perspective, without reference to God), do not yield ultimate, enduring satisfaction or a permanent legacy. The verse highlights the impermanence of human memory and achievements, suggesting that even the most significant deeds will eventually be forgotten by subsequent generations. However, the book ultimately concludes that fearing God and keeping His commandments is the whole duty of man, as stated in [Ecclesiastes 12:13](/ecclesiastes/12-13 "Ecclesiastes 12:13 - The Conclusion of the Whole Matter"), implying that true meaning and lasting purpose are found in a right relationship with the eternal God, not in fleeting human recognition.

**How does this verse reconcile with the biblical emphasis on remembering God's works and passing on heritage?**

Answer: Ecclesiastes 1:11 primarily addresses human remembrance of human deeds and achievements, emphasizing its inherent impermanence. This contrasts sharply with the biblical imperative for humanity to remember God's mighty acts, His covenant faithfulness, and His laws, and to diligently pass this knowledge on to future generations, as commanded in passages like [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6-7 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teach Your Children Diligently"). The Preacher's lament is about the natural human tendency to forget and the inherent limitation of human memory in the face of vast time. It does not negate the spiritual command to remember God and His word. In fact, it implicitly underscores the eternal importance of God's remembrance and His truth, which stands in stark contrast to the fleeting nature of human fame and accomplishments. The book ultimately calls for remembering one's Creator, as exhorted in [Ecclesiastes 12:1](/ecclesiastes/12-1 "Ecclesiastes 12:1 - Remember Your Creator").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 1:11, with its stark declaration of the fleeting nature of human memory and legacy, finds its ultimate answer and profound reversal in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Preacher's lament that "no remembrance of former things" exists, and that future generations will likewise forget, highlights the fundamental human longing for lasting significance in a world where all earthly endeavors are subject to decay and oblivion. Christ, however, offers an eternal and unshakeable remembrance. Unlike human names and deeds that fade, the name of Jesus Christ endures forever, "a name that is above every name" to which every knee will bow, as declared in [Philippians 2:9-10](/philippians/2-9-10 "Philippians 2:9-10 - The Exaltation of Christ"). His sacrifice on the cross, the ultimate act of love and redemption, is not subject to human forgetfulness but is eternally remembered by God and commemorated by believers until His return, as instructed in [1 Corinthians 11:26](/1_corinthians/11-26 "1 Corinthians 11:26 - Do This in Remembrance of Me"). Furthermore, for those who are "in Christ," their lives are not lost to the sands of time but are eternally inscribed in the Lamb's Book of Life, ensuring their eternal presence in the New Jerusalem, as promised in [Revelation 21:27](/rev/21-27 "Revelation 21:27 - The Book of Life"). The transient human legacy is superseded by an eternal inheritance in Christ, imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for us, as beautifully described in [1 Peter 1:3-4](/1_peter/1-3-4 "1 Peter 1:3-4 - An Inheritance Imperishable"). In Him, the futility "under the sun" gives way to a hope that transcends time, promising not just remembrance, but resurrection and eternal life in the presence of the One who "is the same yesterday and today and forever," as affirmed in [Hebrews 13:8](/hebrews/13-8 "Hebrews 13:8 - Jesus Christ is the Same").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ecclesiastes 2:16

For [there is] no remembrance of the wise more than of the fool for ever; seeing that which now [is] in the days to come shall all be forgotten. And how dieth the wise [man]? as the fool.

Psalms 9:6

O thou enemy, destructions are come to a perpetual end: and thou hast destroyed cities; their memorial is perished with them.

Ecclesiastes 9:5

For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.

Isaiah 42:9

Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them.

Isaiah 41:22

Let them bring [them] forth, and shew us what shall happen: let them shew the former things, what they [be], that we may consider them, and know the latter end of them; or declare us things for to come.

Isaiah 41:26

Who hath declared from the beginning, that we may know? and beforetime, that we may say, [He is] righteous? yea, [there is] none that sheweth, yea, [there is] none that declareth, yea, [there is] none that heareth your words.