TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Ecclesiastes 5:18–20.
Solomon, from the vanity of riches hoarded up, here infers that the best course we can take is to use well what we have, to serve God with it, to do good with it, and take the comfort of it to ourselves and our families; this he had pressed before, Ecc 2:24; Ecc 3:22. Observe, 1. What it is that is here recommended to us, not to indulge the appetites of the flesh, or to take up with present pleasures or profits for our portion, but soberly and moderately to make use of what Providence has allotted for our comfortable passage through this world. We must not starve ourselves through covetousness, because we cannot afford ourselves food convenient, nor through eagerness in our worldly pursuits, nor through excessive care and grief, but eat and drink what is fit for us to keep our bodies in good plight for the serving of our souls in God's service. We must not kill ourselves with labour, and then leave others to enjoy the good of it, but take the comfort of that which our hands have laboured for, and that not now and then, but all the days of our life which God gives us. Life is God's gift, and he has appointed us the number of the days of our life (Job 14:5); let us therefore spend those days in serving the Lord our God with joyfulness and gladness of heart. We must not do the business of our calling as a drudgery, and make ourselves slaves to it, but we must rejoice in our labour, not grasp at more business than we can go through without perplexity and disquiet, but take a pleasure in the calling wherein God has put us, and go on in the business of it with cheerfulness. This it to rejoice in our labour, whatever it is, as Zebulun in his going out and Issachar in his tents. 2. What is urged to recommend it to us. (1.) That it is good and comely to do this. It is well, and it looks well. Those that cheerfully use what God has given them thereby honour the giver, answer the intention of the gift, act rationally and generously, do good in the world, and make what they have turn to the best account, and this is both their credit and their comfort; it is good and comely; there is duty and decency in it. (2.) That it is all the good we can have out of the things of this world: It is our portion, and in doing thus we take our portion, and make the best of bad. This is our part of our worldly possession. God must have his part, the poor theirs, and our families theirs, but this is ours; it is all that falls to our lot out of them. (3.) That a heart to do thus is such a gift of God's grace as crowns all the gifts of his providence. If God has given a man riches and wealth, he completes the favour, and makes that a blessing indeed, if withal he gives him power to eat thereof, wisdom and grace to take the good of it and to do good with it. If this is God's gift, we must covet it earnestly as the best gift relating to our enjoyments in this world. (4.) That this is the way to make our own lives easy and to relieve ourselves against the many toils and troubles which our lives on earth are incident to (Ecc 5:20): He shall not much remember the days of his life, the days of his sorrow and sore travail, his working days, his weeping days. He shall either forget them or remember them as waters that pass away; he shall not much lay to heart his crosses, nor long retain the bitter relish of them, because God answers him in the joy of his heart, balances all the grievances of his labour with the joy of it and recompenses him for it by giving him to eat the labour of his hands. If he does not answer all his desires and expectations, in the letter of them, yet he answers them with that which is more than equivalent, in the joy of his heart. A cheerful spirit is a great blessing; it makes the yoke of our employments easy and the burden of our afflictions light.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
One surviving comment on this verse from the historical church.
"So what
I have seen to be good is that it is suitable to eat and drink and enjoy
pleasure with all one's labour that he toils beneath the sun during the brief
span of his life that God has given him, for that is his lot. Furthermore, every man to whom God has given
riches and possessions and has given him the power to enjoy them, possess his
share and be happy in his work: this is the gift of God. For he shall remember that the days of his
life are not many, while God provides him with the joy of his heart." This is in comparison to him, who consumes his wealth
in the darkness of his worries, and carries those things which are about to die
throughout the great tedium of his life, and says that that man is better, who
enjoys what he has. For here there is
but a small desire of enjoyment, but there in the latter indeed there is a
great magnitude of worries. He also
gives the reasons why the gift of God is to be able to enjoy riches. Since "he will not remember much of the
days of his life". For God turns
him to the happiness of his heart's desire: he will not be sad, he will not be
worried by thought, since he is led away by happiness and desire for present
things. But it is better understood as according to the apostle [Cf I Cor. 10, 2-4.],
seen as spiritual food and spiritual drink which is given by God and I
understood to see goodness in all of his toil, since we are only able to
consider true good things with great toil and enthusiasm. For what is permitted to be good, though,
until Christ appears in our life, is not yet openly considered good. And therefore God will not remember much of
the days of our life. We should also
note that here "perispasmos" is used in
a better way, in the place of the occupation of the spirit and true
happiness.
CHAPTER 6
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Summary
Ecclesiastes 5:18 presents a profound shift in the Preacher's often-somber discourse, moving from lamenting the futility of human striving "under the sun" to affirming the simple, divinely-granted joys of life. It declares that finding satisfaction in eating, drinking, and the fruit of one's labor is not merely acceptable but "good and comely," a direct gift from God and one's allotted "portion." This verse offers a vital counterpoint to the book's pervasive themes of vanity, advocating for a grateful acceptance of present blessings as a wise and God-honoring way to live amidst life's inherent uncertainties.
Context
Literary Context
Ecclesiastes 5:18 appears within a section (Ecclesiastes 5:8-20) that meticulously addresses the perils and disappointments associated with wealth, oppression, and the insatiable human desire for more. The Preacher, Qoheleth, has just highlighted the emptiness of loving money (Ecclesiastes 5:10), the restless nights of the rich (Ecclesiastes 5:12), and the tragic loss of accumulated riches (Ecclesiastes 5:13-17). Verse 18, however, marks a significant and refreshing thematic pivot. It stands as one of several "enjoyment passages" in Ecclesiastes (e.g., Ecclesiastes 2:24, Ecclesiastes 3:12-13, Ecclesiastes 9:7-9), where Qoheleth, despite his cynical observations about life's meaninglessness apart from God, identifies a genuine, God-given good in human existence: the ability to find simple joy in daily provisions and the fruit of one's honest toil. This provides a crucial balance to the book's otherwise somber tone, offering a practical, God-centered wisdom for living meaningfully in a fallen world.
Historical & Cultural Context
The ancient Near East, including Israel, was predominantly an agrarian society where labor was often arduous, and sustenance was hard-won. Life "under the sun"—a recurring motif in Ecclesiastes referring to human experience apart from direct divine revelation—was characterized by demanding cycles of sowing and reaping, often with precarious outcomes due to unpredictable weather, political instability, or social oppression. In such a context, the simple ability to eat, drink, and enjoy the tangible results of one's work was not a given but a profound blessing. The concept of "portion" was deeply ingrained in the culture, frequently referring to an inheritance, a share of spoils, or a divinely allotted destiny. This verse speaks directly to the common person's daily experience, validating their efforts and the simple pleasures derived from them, contrasting sharply with the grand, often futile, pursuits of kings and philosophers that Qoheleth also examines throughout the book of Ecclesiastes.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several foundational themes within Ecclesiastes. Firstly, it highlights Divine Sovereignty and Providence, asserting that the capacity for enjoyment and the fruits of labor are not merely human achievements but direct "gifts" from God. This perspective grounds human well-being in divine grace rather than human effort alone. Secondly, it champions Contentment and Gratitude, encouraging individuals to embrace their "portion" rather than endlessly striving for more, a stark contrast to the vanity of accumulating wealth that Qoheleth critiques elsewhere (Ecclesiastes 5:10). Thirdly, it redefines True Wisdom not as the acquisition of vast knowledge or riches, but as the humble acceptance and appreciation of God's daily provisions. This perspective offers a practical path to meaning and joy amidst life's inherent uncertainties and injustices, grounding human satisfaction in divine benevolence rather than fleeting earthly pursuits.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word is used in its widest sense, encompassing moral goodness, functional benefit, and aesthetic beauty. In Ecclesiastes 5:18, when applied to eating, drinking, and enjoying labor, it signifies that these activities are not just permissible or pleasant, but are inherently proper, beneficial, and pleasing in God's sight when received as His gift. It implies a sense of rightness, well-being, and favor, indicating a state that is desirable and wholesome.
Meaning "beautiful" or "fitting," this term adds an aesthetic and appropriate dimension to the "good." It suggests that this way of living—finding joy in simple provisions and honest labor as God's gift—is not only beneficial but also aesthetically pleasing and fitting within the grand scheme of creation and divine order. It speaks to the harmony and beauty of living in alignment with God's design, indicating something that is fair and pleasant.
This word refers to an allotted share, an inheritance, or a division. In this context, it emphasizes that the ability to enjoy the fruits of one's labor and daily sustenance is a specific, divinely assigned blessing. It underscores the idea of contentment with what God has provided, recognizing it as one's unique, God-given share in life, rather than something earned or seized independently. It speaks to an individual's designated lot or inheritance.
Verse Breakdown
"¶ Behold that which I have seen:"
The Preacher (Qoheleth) introduces a personal observation, signaling a profound conclusion or insight drawn from his extensive experience and contemplation of life "under the sun." This phrase serves to emphasize the weight and certainty of the following declaration, presenting it as a verified truth that he has personally perceived and confirmed.
"[it is] good and comely [for one] to eat and to drink,"
This clause presents the core affirmation. The simple, fundamental acts of sustenance—eating and drinking—are declared to be not just necessary but "good" (beneficial, morally right, and conducive to well-being) and "comely" (fitting, beautiful, and appropriate). This elevates everyday activities to a divinely sanctioned and aesthetically pleasing level, especially when viewed as a gift rather than a mere necessity.
"and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life,"
This expands the scope of divinely sanctioned enjoyment beyond mere sustenance to include the satisfaction derived from one's diligent work. "Under the sun" reiterates the context of human earthly existence, emphasizing that even within life's often-futile pursuits, there is a legitimate "good" to be found and enjoyed from one's toil throughout their entire lifespan. This enjoyment of the fruit of one's labor is a specific blessing.
"which God giveth him: for it [is] his portion."
This final clause provides the theological foundation for the preceding statements. The ability to enjoy life and labor is explicitly attributed as a direct "gift" from "God" (Elohim), the supreme divine being. The concluding phrase, "for it is his portion," reinforces the idea that this enjoyment is a divinely allotted share, a specific blessing from God that should be gratefully accepted as one's rightful inheritance and designated lot in life.
Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 5:18 employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The opening phrase, "Behold that which I have seen," functions as an Observation or Testimonial, lending personal authority and empirical weight to the Preacher's declaration. This personal observation contrasts sharply with the often abstract or generalized laments found elsewhere in the book. The verse then uses Affirmation by declaring certain activities as "good and comely," which stands in Contrast to the pervasive theme of "vanity" (hebel) that dominates much of Ecclesiastes. This contrast highlights a paradox: while much of life is futile, there are specific, God-given moments of genuine good. The phrase "under the sun" serves as a repeated Motif throughout Ecclesiastes, consistently grounding the Preacher's observations in the realm of human experience, emphasizing life's limitations apart from divine revelation. Finally, the verse functions as a piece of Didactic Wisdom, offering practical instruction and encouragement for how one should live and find meaning amidst the uncertainties of existence, by embracing divine provision as one's "portion."
Theological and Thematic Connections
Ecclesiastes 5:18 offers a profound theological insight into God's providence and humanity's proper response to it. It counters the natural human tendency towards insatiable desire and the relentless pursuit of fleeting gains by reorienting the focus to God as the ultimate source of all good. The ability to find joy in simple sustenance and the fruit of one's labor is not merely a psychological coping mechanism but a divine gift, a "portion" allotted by God Himself. This perspective transforms mundane activities into opportunities for worship and gratitude, suggesting that true contentment comes not from what one accumulates, but from recognizing and appreciating what God has graciously provided. It underscores the biblical principle that all good things come from the Creator, and that acknowledging this truth is foundational to a life of wisdom and peace, liberating individuals from the endless cycle of striving for what is ultimately "vanity."
Reflection and Application
Ecclesiastes 5:18 offers a timeless and profoundly practical lesson for navigating the complexities of modern life. In a world relentlessly driven by ambition, consumerism, and the pursuit of external validation, this verse serves as a powerful antidote. It calls us to pause, to cultivate a spirit of profound gratitude for the seemingly ordinary aspects of our existence: the food on our tables, the water we drink, and the satisfaction derived from honest work. It challenges the pervasive notion that happiness is always found in the next achievement, the next acquisition, or a different circumstance. Instead, it invites us to find deep contentment and joy in the "portion" God has already given us, recognizing that these simple blessings are direct expressions of His benevolent provision. Embracing this truth can liberate us from the endless cycle of striving and dissatisfaction, allowing us to truly live in the present, appreciate our daily bread, and find fulfillment in our labor as a gift from the Creator.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does Ecclesiastes 5:18 encourage hedonism or a purely materialistic view of life?
No, Ecclesiastes 5:18 does not encourage hedonism or a purely materialistic view of life. While it advocates for enjoying eating, drinking, and the fruit of one's labor, it explicitly frames these activities as "which God giveth him: for it is his portion." This divine attribution is crucial. The enjoyment is not an end in itself, nor is it about excess or selfish indulgence. Rather, it is about gratefully receiving and appreciating the simple, tangible blessings that God provides within the context of human existence "under the sun." It's a recognition that even amidst life's uncertainties and vanities, God offers genuine, good gifts, and wisdom lies in acknowledging and enjoying them as from His hand. This perspective contrasts sharply with the futility of chasing wealth or pleasure for their own sake, as seen in Qoheleth's earlier experiments with pleasure and accomplishment in Ecclesiastes 2:1-11.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Ecclesiastes 5:18, with its emphasis on finding "good and comely" enjoyment in God's daily provisions and the fruit of one's labor as a divine "portion," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Qoheleth points to the earthly, temporal blessings given by God, Christ reveals the eternal and spiritual dimensions of true satisfaction and inheritance. Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst" (John 6:35). He is the ultimate "portion" for believers, far surpassing any earthly inheritance, as He provides eternal life and spiritual sustenance that truly satisfies the soul (John 4:14). The "labor" that finds its ultimate good is not merely earthly toil, but the "work of God" which is to "believe on him whom he hath sent" (John 6:29). Through Christ, believers receive an "inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven" (1 Peter 1:4), which is the true and lasting "portion" God gives. Thus, the fleeting joys of Ecclesiastes are transformed and transcended in Christ, who is the source of all true good, the giver of abundant life, and the ultimate fulfillment of every longing for meaning and satisfaction.