Ecclesiastes 4:7

¶ Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun.

Then I returned {H7725}, and I saw {H7200} vanity {H1892} under the sun {H8121}.

Then I turned my attention to something else under the sun that is pointless:

Again, I saw futility under the sun.

Then I returned and saw vanity under the sun.

Context of Ecclesiastes 4:7

Ecclesiastes 4:7 continues the Preacher's (Koheleth's) profound observations about the human condition and the search for meaning "under the sun." This verse serves as a summarizing reflection after his earlier observations in the chapter regarding oppression, envy, and the often-futility of human labor. Having just discussed the solitary individual who toils without companionship or purpose (Ecclesiastes 4:4-6), the Preacher reiterates his overarching conclusion: much of what he observes in life, when viewed from a purely earthly perspective, is ultimately without lasting value or satisfaction.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Pervasiveness of Vanity: The phrase "Then I returned, and I saw" suggests a repeated or renewed observation, reinforcing that "vanity" is not an isolated incident but a pervasive characteristic of life lived apart from a divine, eternal perspective. It's a recurring theme in the Preacher's philosophical journey.
  • Observation of Human Folly: This verse encapsulates the Preacher's continued assessment of human endeavors and struggles, highlighting the absurdities and meaninglessness that can arise from purely materialistic or self-serving pursuits.
  • The "Under the Sun" Perspective: This signature phrase in Ecclesiastes (e.g., Ecclesiastes 1:3) consistently limits the Preacher's scope to earthly existence and human perception. It emphasizes that these observations of "vanity" are made from a viewpoint that often struggles to find ultimate purpose or satisfaction in worldly achievements alone.

Linguistic Insight: "Vanity" (Hebel)

The central word in this verse is vanity, which comes from the Hebrew word hebel (הֶבֶל). This term is crucial to understanding Ecclesiastes. It literally means "breath," "vapor," or "mist," conveying something fleeting, insubstantial, and without lasting substance. Therefore, "vanity" in Ecclesiastes is not primarily about conceit or pride, but rather about futility, meaninglessness, absurdity, or the transient nature of life's endeavors when viewed without God. It's the same term used in the book's foundational declaration, "Vanity of vanities; all is vanity." The Preacher's repeated encounter with hebel underscores the constant human struggle to find lasting significance in a world that often disappoints.

Practical Application

Ecclesiastes 4:7 challenges us to critically evaluate our own pursuits and priorities. Are we investing our time, energy, and resources into things that are ultimately "vanity"—fleeting, unsatisfying, or lacking eternal significance? The Preacher's relentless observations, though seemingly pessimistic, are designed to push us beyond a purely earthly worldview. They prompt us to consider where true and lasting meaning can be found. For believers, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that genuine fulfillment and purpose are discovered not in worldly achievements or possessions, but in a relationship with God and in living according to His eternal purposes, a theme echoed in verses about seeking God's Kingdom first and finding true joy in His presence (Psalm 16:11).

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ecclesiastes 4:1

    ¶ So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of [such as were] oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors [there was] power; but they had no comforter.

  • Psalms 78:33

    Therefore their days did he consume in vanity, and their years in trouble.

  • Zechariah 1:6

    But my words and my statutes, which I commanded my servants the prophets, did they not take hold of your fathers? and they returned and said, Like as the LORD of hosts thought to do unto us, according to our ways, and according to our doings, so hath he dealt with us.

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