Ecclesiastes 4:16

KJV

[There is] no end of all the people, [even] of all that have been before them: they also that come after shall not rejoice in him. Surely this also [is] vanity and vexation of spirit.

KJV (with Strong's)

There is no end {H7093} of all the people {H5971}, even of all that have been before {H6440} them: they also that come after {H314} shall not rejoice {H8055} in him. Surely this also is vanity {H1892} and vexation {H7475} of spirit {H7307}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and that no limit was set for the number of his subjects. Nevertheless, those who come afterwards will not regard him highly. This too is certainly pointless and feeding on wind.

Berean Standard Bible

There is no limit to all the people who were before them. Yet the successor will not be celebrated by those who come even later. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind.

American Standard Version

There was no end of all the people, even of all them over whom he was: yet they that come after shall not rejoice in him. Surely this also is vanity and a striving after wind.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 4:16 offers a poignant and somewhat melancholic observation on the futility of human popularity, leadership, and the pursuit of lasting renown "under the sun." It concludes a passage reflecting on the transient nature of power and influence, asserting that even a newly acclaimed leader, initially embraced by the masses, will eventually be forgotten by subsequent generations. This relentless, cyclical pattern of rise and fall, popularity and oblivion, is ultimately declared to be "vanity and vexation of spirit," reinforcing the book's central theme that all human endeavors, when disconnected from an eternal perspective, are ultimately unsatisfying and without enduring meaning.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Ecclesiastes 4:16 serves as the climactic and generalizing statement for a specific narrative vignette found in [Ecclesiastes 4:13-16](/ecclesiastes/4-13-16 "Ecclesiastes 4:13-16 - The Cycle of Leadership and Popularity"). The preceding verses introduce a stark contrast between an "old and foolish king" and a "poor and wise child" who rises to power. This young, wise leader, initially embraced with widespread enthusiasm by "all the people" ([Ecclesiastes 4:15](/ecclesiastes/4-15 "Ecclesiastes 4:15 - The Popularity of the New Leader")), quickly garners immense popularity. However, the Preacher's keen observation in verse 16 extends beyond this specific scenario, generalizing that no matter how vast the number of people who have come before or how many will follow, the cycle of human forgetfulness and the transient nature of acclaim will persist. It underscores Qoheleth's consistent theme of the impermanence of human achievements and the relentless march of time, which renders even great popularity ultimately meaningless, echoing the broader declarations found throughout [the opening chapters of Ecclesiastes](/ecclesiastes/1 "Ecclesiastes 1 - The Preacher's Lament").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The observations in Ecclesiastes 4:16 resonate deeply with the realities of ancient Near Eastern monarchies and the cyclical nature of power dynamics. Kings and leaders, despite their initial popularity and perceived authority, were perpetually subject to the whims of the populace, the challenges of succession, and the inevitable passage of time. Dynasties rose and fell with regularity, and even the most celebrated figures eventually faded into historical obscurity, replaced by new generations with new allegiances and new heroes. The pursuit of a lasting legacy was a significant cultural driver, often manifested in monumental building projects, military conquests, or the establishment of enduring dynasties. Yet, Qoheleth argues that even these grand efforts ultimately yield no lasting satisfaction or remembrance. This perspective directly challenges the conventional wisdom of the time, which often equated success and lasting impact with worldly power and renown, a theme Qoheleth consistently deconstructs throughout [his philosophical inquiry](/ecclesiastes/2 "Ecclesiastes 2 - The Search for Meaning").

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes pervasive in Ecclesiastes. Firstly, it reinforces the **transience of human fame and power**, demonstrating that even widespread popularity is fleeting and ultimately forgotten by subsequent generations. The "no end of all the people" signifies the ceaseless flow of humanity, which inevitably diminishes the unique significance of any single individual's achievements. Secondly, it highlights the **cyclical nature of life and human history**, where new generations replace old ones in an endless procession, diminishing the unique significance of any single individual's achievements. Thirdly, and most importantly, it reiterates the overarching theme of **"vanity" (Hebrew: _hebel_)**, which signifies emptiness, futility, or something as insubstantial as vapor. The declaration that this phenomenon is "vanity and vexation of spirit" (or "striving after wind") encapsulates Qoheleth's conclusion that pursuing human acclaim or a lasting legacy "under the sun" leads only to disillusionment and frustration, a concept introduced early in the book, as seen in [Ecclesiastes 1:2](/ecclesiastes/1-2 "Ecclesiastes 1:2 - All is Vanity"). This theme challenges the reader to seek meaning beyond the temporal and earthly.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **End (Hebrew, _qêts'_):** From H7093, this word denotes an extremity or limit, often used to signify the conclusion or cessation of something. In Ecclesiastes 4:16, "no end" implies a ceaseless, unending procession of people and generations. This emphasizes the relentless flow of time that diminishes the lasting impact of any single individual or leader, underscoring the perpetual cycle of human existence where one generation gives way to the next without ultimate finality for human endeavor or remembrance.
* **Vanity (Hebrew, _hebel'_):** From H1892, this is a foundational word in Ecclesiastes, appearing over 30 times. It means emptiness, vapor, breath, or something transitory and unsatisfactory. It metaphorically describes anything that is insubstantial, fleeting, or ultimately meaningless when viewed apart from God. Here, it labels the pursuit and experience of fleeting popularity as ultimately unfulfilling and without lasting substance, like grasping at smoke or a mere breath that quickly dissipates.
* **Vexation (Hebrew, _raʻyôwn'_):** From H7475, this term signifies desire or vexation. When paired with "spirit" (Hebrew, _rûwach_, H7307, meaning wind or breath), the phrase "vexation of spirit" (often translated as "striving after wind" or "chasing after wind") powerfully conveys the futility, frustration, and unfulfillment that results from pursuing earthly achievements and recognition. It suggests an endless, unsatisfying chase after something that cannot be truly grasped or held, leading only to weariness and profound disillusionment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"[There is] no end of all the people, [even] of all that have been before them":** This opening clause establishes the vastness and continuity of humanity across time. It speaks of an unending procession of generations, highlighting that countless individuals have lived and passed away before the current ones, and this cycle continues without cessation. The sheer volume of people, past and present, underscores the relative insignificance and fleeting nature of any single individual's moment in the spotlight. It paints a picture of humanity as an endless river, where each wave quickly gives way to the next.
* **"they also that come after shall not rejoice in him":** This is the poignant core of the verse's observation, directly addressing the transience of popularity. It asserts that even the most popular, influential, or celebrated figure of one generation will not command the lasting admiration or "rejoice" (find joy or satisfaction in) from future generations. The popularity and impact are temporary, fading as new people and new concerns arise, leading inevitably to eventual oblivion for even the most celebrated. The new generation will pursue its own heroes and interests, largely indifferent to the past.
* **"Surely this also [is] vanity and vexation of spirit":** This concluding declaration is Qoheleth's summary judgment on the preceding observation. It applies the book's central theme of "vanity" (_hebel_) to the transience of human fame and the pursuit of popular acclaim. The "vexation of spirit" (or "striving after wind") emphasizes the deep frustration, weariness, and ultimate emptiness that results from investing one's hopes and efforts in something so fleeting and insubstantial. It is a pursuit that yields no lasting satisfaction or meaning, leaving the pursuer grasping at air.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 4:16 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message with profound impact. The pervasive use of **Repetition** of the term "vanity" (_hebel_) throughout the book, and its specific application here, serves as a rhetorical anchor, constantly reminding the reader of the Preacher's central thesis regarding the futility of life "under the sun." The phrase "no end of all the people" is a form of **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the overwhelming and ceaseless flow of humanity across generations, which ultimately dwarfs the individual's significance and lasting impact. The concluding declaration, "Surely this also is vanity and vexation of spirit," functions as a **Summary Statement** or **Refrain**, characteristic of Qoheleth's style, providing a definitive and often somber judgment on the observed phenomenon. Furthermore, the metaphorical phrase "vexation of spirit" (literally "striving after wind") is a powerful **Metaphor** or **Symbolism**, visually depicting the futility of chasing after something intangible and ultimately ungraspable, like fame or human applause. This imagery evokes a sense of Sisyphean effort, where intense exertion yields no lasting reward or satisfaction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ecclesiastes 4:16 profoundly contributes to the biblical understanding of human existence by highlighting the inherent limitations and ultimate futility of all human endeavors when pursued apart from God. It underscores the sovereignty of God over time and history, demonstrating that human fame, power, and legacy are utterly temporary in the grand scheme of His eternal purposes. The Preacher's lament over the "vanity" of striving for human recognition points to a deeper theological truth: true and lasting significance, joy, and purpose can only be found in relationship with the Creator, whose glory endures forever, unlike the fleeting glory of humanity. This perspective challenges humanity's innate desire for self-glorification and calls for a radical reorientation of priorities towards that which is eternal and divinely ordained, rather than the transient accolades of the world.

* [Psalm 39:5-6](/psalms/39-5-6 "Psalm 39:5-6 - The Brevity of Life and Human Folly")
* [Isaiah 40:6-8](/isaiah/40-6-8 "Isaiah 40:6-8 - The Fleeting Nature of Humanity vs. God's Enduring Word")
* [James 4:14](/james/4-14 "James 4:14 - Life is a Vapor")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ecclesiastes 4:16 serves as a profound call to introspection, prompting us to evaluate where we are investing our lives and seeking our ultimate satisfaction. In a world increasingly obsessed with social media metrics, personal branding, and the pursuit of fleeting fame, Qoheleth's ancient wisdom remains strikingly relevant. This verse challenges the deeply ingrained human desire for recognition and legacy, reminding us that even the most celebrated figures eventually fade into obscurity, replaced by new generations with new interests. The "vexation of spirit" that accompanies the pursuit of such transient goals is a powerful warning against misplacing our hope and energy. Instead of striving to be remembered by people who will eventually forget us, we are encouraged to live for the approval of God, whose remembrance is eternal and whose commendation truly matters. Our true legacy is not found in human accolades, but in faithfulness to Him and in the eternal impact we make through His Spirit. This radical reorientation frees us from the exhausting treadmill of self-promotion and allows us to find genuine peace and enduring purpose in Christ alone, whose kingdom is not of this world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I seek recognition or approval from others, and how might this pursuit, as described in Ecclesiastes 4:16, lead to "vanity and vexation of spirit"?**
* **How does the transience of human popularity, as highlighted by Qoheleth, influence my understanding of true success and lasting significance in my personal and professional life?**
* **What practical steps can I take to shift my focus from building a temporary earthly legacy to investing in eternal values and God's kingdom, finding my satisfaction in Him alone?**

### FAQ
**Does Ecclesiastes 4:16 mean that all human efforts are pointless?**

Answer: Not entirely. While Ecclesiastes 4:16, like much of the book, emphasizes the "vanity" of human endeavors "under the sun"—meaning apart from God's perspective—it does not advocate for complete idleness or nihilism. Instead, it critiques the *ultimate meaning* derived from such pursuits when they are disconnected from an eternal purpose. The Preacher's point is that striving for fame, power, or even wisdom for their own sake, without acknowledging God, will ultimately lead to disillusionment and "vexation of spirit." The book's conclusion in [Ecclesiastes 12:13](/ecclesiastes/12-13 "Ecclesiastes 12:13 - The Whole Duty of Man") clarifies that the "whole duty of man" is to "fear God, and keep his commandments," suggesting that efforts aligned with God's will are not vain but hold lasting meaning and eternal reward.

**What is the "vexation of spirit" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "vexation of spirit" (Hebrew: _raʻyôwn rûwach_) is often translated as "striving after wind" or "chasing after wind." It describes the profound futility and frustration that comes from pursuing something intangible, elusive, and ultimately unsatisfying. In the context of Ecclesiastes 4:16, it refers to the deep disappointment and emptiness experienced when one invests heavily in gaining popularity or a lasting legacy, only to find that these things are fleeting and ultimately forgotten by subsequent generations. It's the feeling of chasing a phantom, an endless and unfulfilling pursuit that leaves one weary and ungratified, as Qoheleth observes throughout [his reflections on life](/ecclesiastes/1 "Ecclesiastes 1 - The Preacher's Introduction to Vanity") apart from God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ecclesiastes 4:16, with its poignant declaration of the vanity of human fame and the fleeting nature of earthly acclaim, finds its ultimate answer and fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Qoheleth's lament over the inability of "those who come after" to "rejoice in him" (the popular leader) highlights humanity's desperate need for a King whose reign is eternal and whose glory never fades. Unlike the temporary popularity of earthly rulers, Christ's kingdom is everlasting, and His name endures forever ([Psalm 72:17](/psalms/72-17 "Psalm 72:17 - His Name Endures Forever")). The "vanity and vexation of spirit" that comes from chasing human approval is utterly dispelled by the enduring joy and purpose found in Christ. He is the one in whom all things hold together ([Colossians 1:17](/colossians/1-17 "Colossians 1:17 - Christ, the Sustainer")), and through Him, our lives gain eternal significance, transforming transient efforts into lasting spiritual fruit. Our true "rejoicing" is not in a fleeting human figure, but in the Lamb of God, who laid down His life and was raised to glory, drawing all people to Himself ([John 12:32](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - Jesus Draws All People")). In Christ, the pursuit of a legacy is replaced by participation in His eternal mission, where even a cup of cold water given in His name will not lose its reward ([Matthew 10:42](/matthew/10-42 "Matthew 10:42 - Reward for Service")). He is the true "end" to all vanity, offering a purpose that transcends the cycles of human forgetfulness and provides an eternal "rejoicing" that the world cannot give or take away ([John 16:22](/john/16-22 "John 16:22 - Enduring Joy in Christ")).

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 1:14

I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all [is] vanity and vexation of spirit.

1 Kings 1:40

And all the people came up after him, and the people piped with pipes, and rejoiced with great joy, so that the earth rent with the sound of them.

Ecclesiastes 2:17

¶ Therefore I hated life; because the work that is wrought under the sun [is] grievous unto me: for all [is] vanity and vexation of spirit.

Ecclesiastes 2:11

Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all [was] vanity and vexation of spirit, and [there was] no profit under the sun.

2 Samuel 19:9

¶ And all the people were at strife throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, The king saved us out of the hand of our enemies, and he delivered us out of the hand of the Philistines; and now he is fled out of the land for Absalom.

2 Samuel 15:12

And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counsellor, from his city, [even] from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.

2 Samuel 15:13

¶ And there came a messenger to David, saying, The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom.