Ecclesiastes 5:13

Context

Ecclesiastes 5:13 is part of a larger discourse by "the Preacher" (Qoheleth) on the vanity and futility of earthly pursuits, particularly the accumulation of wealth, when viewed "under the sun"—that is, from a purely human, temporal perspective without divine revelation. This chapter specifically warns against various forms of foolishness and materialism, emphasizing that much human striving for riches ultimately leads to dissatisfaction and sorrow. The verse immediately precedes observations on how wealth can be lost suddenly (Ecclesiastes 5:14) and offers no true security.

Key Themes

• The Deceitfulness of Riches: This verse highlights a counterintuitive truth: what is often perceived as a blessing (wealth) can become a source of profound harm. Instead of bringing joy or security, hoarded riches can inflict pain, anxiety, or even spiritual detriment upon their owner.
• The Peril of Hoarding: The phrase "riches kept for the owners thereof to their hurt" points to the danger of accumulating wealth purely for its own sake, without proper purpose or use. Such hoarding can lead to isolation, suspicion, and a focus on perishable things that detracts from eternal values.
• Vanity of Earthly Possessions: This observation reinforces a central theme of Ecclesiastes, articulated in Ecclesiastes 1:2: "Vanity of vanities; all is vanity." Even seemingly beneficial things like wealth are ultimately empty and can cause harm when pursued as an ultimate good.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "a sore evil" translates the Hebrew ra'ah chola (רָעָה חֹלָה), which literally means "sick evil" or "grievous evil." This emphasizes the deep-seated, painful, and unhealthy nature of the problem Qoheleth describes. It's not just a minor inconvenience but a profound malady of the human condition "under the sun." The recurring phrase "under the sun" (tachat ha'shemesh) is characteristic of Ecclesiastes, framing the commentary from a worldly perspective.

Practical Application

Ecclesiastes 5:13 serves as a timeless warning against the dangers of materialism and the misguided pursuit of wealth. It prompts us to:

• Examine Our Hearts: Reflect on our attitude towards money and possessions. Do we view wealth as a means to an end, or an end in itself? Is our accumulation driven by greed or a desire for security that only God can provide?
• Seek True Security: Recognize that genuine security and lasting satisfaction are not found in material possessions, which can be lost or, as this verse warns, become a source of hurt. True contentment comes from a right relationship with God and a focus on eternal values.
• Practice Stewardship and Generosity: Instead of hoarding, consider how wealth can be used wisely for good, to meet needs, and to further God's purposes. This aligns with New Testament teachings on being rich in good works and ready to distribute.
• Beware of Wealth's Snares: The Preacher's observation challenges the common perception that wealth inherently brings happiness or security, aligning with Christ's teaching on storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, where moth and rust corrupt. This echoes warnings found elsewhere in Scripture about the perils of covetousness and the love of money.