Ecclesiastes 8:15

KJV

Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then I commended {H7623} mirth {H8057}, because a man {H120} hath no better thing {H2896} under the sun {H8121}, than to eat {H398}, and to drink {H8354}, and to be merry {H8055}: for that shall abide {H3867} with him of his labour {H5999} the days {H3117} of his life {H2416}, which God {H430} giveth {H5414} him under the sun {H8121}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So I recommend enjoyment - a person can do nothing better under the sun than eat, drink and enjoy himself; this is what should accompany him as he does his work for as long as God gives him to live under the sun.

Berean Standard Bible

So I commended the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be merry. For this joy will accompany him in his labor during the days of his life that God gives him under the sun.

American Standard Version

Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be joyful: for that shall abide with him in his labor all the days of his life which God hath given him under the sun.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ecclesiastes 8:15 encapsulates the Preacher's pragmatic yet profound conclusion regarding the most beneficial way to navigate life's inherent complexities and uncertainties. After wrestling with the inscrutability of divine justice and the limitations of human understanding, Koheleth commends the simple, God-given joys of eating, drinking, and being merry. This perspective is presented not as a call to hedonism, but as the most fitting and enduring portion a person can receive from their labor within the confines of earthly existence, a direct gift from God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse appears within a section (Ecclesiastes 8:9-17) where the Preacher grapples with the apparent injustices and paradoxes of life "under the sun." He observes that the righteous sometimes suffer, and the wicked sometimes prosper, leading to a profound sense of bewilderment concerning God's ways, which he admits are ultimately inscrutable to humanity ([Ecclesiastes 8:17](/ecclesiastes/8-17 "Ecclesiastes 8:17 - God's Inscrutable Ways")). Amidst this intellectual and existential struggle, Ecclesiastes 8:15 offers a recurring refrain and a practical response: since ultimate understanding of divine providence eludes us, and life is fleeting, the best course is to embrace and enjoy the simple, tangible blessings God provides. This sentiment echoes similar conclusions found throughout the book, such as in [Ecclesiastes 2:24](/ecclesiastes/2-24 "Ecclesiastes 2:24 - Enjoying Labor as God's Gift") and [Ecclesiastes 9:7](/ecclesiastes/9-7 "Ecclesiastes 9:7 - Eat, Drink, and Be Merry").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Ecclesiastes reflects a wisdom tradition that sought to make sense of human experience in a world where divine intervention was not always immediately apparent or comprehensible. In ancient Near Eastern societies, life was often arduous, unpredictable, and marked by toil. The concept of "labor" (`ʻâmâl`) was central to daily existence, and the fruit of that labor was often precarious. Against this backdrop, the Preacher's counsel to "eat, drink, and be merry" is not an endorsement of reckless abandon but a sober recognition of the value of present, tangible blessings. It is a pragmatic wisdom for a world where ultimate answers are elusive and where one's portion is often hard-won. The phrase "under the sun" is a distinctive hallmark of Koheleth's perspective, emphasizing an earthly, observable reality, distinct from a focus on the afterlife or transcendent spiritual truths.
* **Key Themes:** Ecclesiastes 8:15 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book. Firstly, it highlights the **Enjoyment of Life as a Divine Gift**. Despite the pervasive theme of "vanity" or "futility" ([Ecclesiastes 1:2](/ecclesiastes/1-2 "Ecclesiastes 1:2 - Vanity of Vanities")), the Preacher consistently points to the simple pleasures of life—eating, drinking, and finding joy—as legitimate and divinely sanctioned blessings. Secondly, it underscores **God's Sovereignty and Provision**, emphasizing that these moments of enjoyment are not accidental but are "which God giveth him under the sun," making them acts of divine grace rather than mere human pursuits. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the **"Under the Sun" Perspective**, a characteristic refrain that frames the Preacher's observations from an earthly, human vantage point, acknowledging the limitations of human understanding in the face of divine mystery. This perspective encourages a realistic and grateful engagement with the present reality, rather than endless striving for what cannot be grasped.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **commended (Hebrew, _shâbach'_):** H7623, a primitive root meaning "to address in a loud tone," or "to pacify." In this context, it signifies a strong affirmation, a hearty endorsement, or even a declaration of praise for mirth. The Preacher isn't merely suggesting; he is actively and emphatically advocating for this approach to life.
* **mirth (Hebrew, _simchâh'_):** H8057, derived from H8055 (sâmach), meaning "blithesomeness or glee." This word encompasses joy, gladness, and rejoicing, often associated with celebrations, festivals, or a general state of positive emotional well-being. It is a deep-seated cheerfulness, not superficial amusement.
* **better thing (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** H2896, meaning "good in the widest sense." It can refer to something beautiful, best, bountiful, pleasant, or beneficial. Here, "no better thing" is a strong affirmation that, from an "under the sun" perspective, finding joy in these simple acts is the most advantageous and desirable human experience.
* **labour (Hebrew, _ʻâmâl'_):** H5999, referring to "toil, wearing effort; hence, worry, whether of body or mind; grievance, pain, trouble." This word highlights the often difficult and burdensome nature of human work. The verse suggests that the enjoyment of life's simple pleasures is the lasting, beneficial portion one receives *from* this very toil, a divinely granted recompense.
* **giveth (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** H5414, a primitive root meaning "to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)." Here, it specifically denotes bestowal or granting. The use of this verb emphasizes that the ability to enjoy life's simple pleasures is not a self-generated outcome but a direct, intentional gift from God (`ʼĕlôhîym`, H430).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then I commended mirth":** The Preacher, Koheleth, having explored various avenues of wisdom, folly, and the limitations of human understanding, presents a definitive conclusion. His "commending" is a strong endorsement, an active and emphatic declaration that joy is not merely permissible but highly advisable.
* **"because a man hath no better thing under the sun":** This clause provides the rationale for the commendation. Within the sphere of earthly existence, bounded by human experience and observation ("under the sun"), there is no superior pursuit or outcome than the one about to be described. This is a statement of practical wisdom, acknowledging the ultimate futility of much human striving.
* **"than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry":** These three actions encapsulate the simple, fundamental pleasures of life. They represent not excessive indulgence, but the basic human experiences of sustenance, fellowship, and joyful celebration. These are tangible, accessible forms of contentment.
* **"for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life":** This explains the lasting benefit. The "mirth" and enjoyment derived from these simple acts become a true, enduring portion (`lâvâh`, H3867, to unite, remain) that a person receives from their toil (`ʻâmâl`). It is a personal, internal reward that accompanies them throughout their temporal existence (`yôwm`, H3117, `chay`, H2416).
* **"which God giveth him under the sun":** This crucial theological qualifier elevates the preceding statements from mere humanistic advice to divinely ordained wisdom. The capacity for and experience of these simple joys are not accidental or self-generated, but are direct gifts from God (`ʼĕlôhîym`, H430). This divine origin transforms them from fleeting pleasures into sacred blessings, a testament to God's goodness even amidst life's mysteries.

#### Literary Devices
Ecclesiastes 8:15 employs several literary devices to convey its message. **Repetition** is evident in the phrase "under the sun," a pervasive **leitmotif** throughout the book that consistently frames the Preacher's observations from an earthly, experiential perspective. This repetition underscores the limited scope of his conclusions, emphasizing that this "better thing" is found within the confines of mortal life. There is a subtle **juxtaposition** between the "labour" (`ʻâmâl`), which often implies toil and weariness, and the "mirth" and enjoyment that are its divinely appointed portion. This contrast highlights God's grace in providing relief and joy amidst hardship. The phrase "no better thing" functions as a form of **hyperbole** or strong **affirmation**, emphasizing the supreme value the Preacher places on these simple joys within his "under the sun" framework. Finally, the entire verse is delivered with a **didactic tone**, characteristic of wisdom literature, as Koheleth offers his considered advice and profound insights to his audience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ecclesiastes 8:15 offers a profound theological insight into God's gracious provision amidst the enigmatic nature of life. It teaches that even when the grand purposes of God seem inscrutable and justice appears elusive "under the sun," God still bestows tangible blessings that are meant to be received with joy. This perspective counters both despair and relentless striving, advocating for a grateful acceptance of the present moment and its simple gifts as divine grace. It affirms the goodness of creation and the legitimacy of human enjoyment, not as an end in itself, but as a portion given by the Creator. The verse encourages a theological posture of contentment and gratitude for the ordinary, recognizing God's hand in even the most mundane aspects of existence.

* [Ecclesiastes 2:24](/ecclesiastes/2-24 "Ecclesiastes 2:24 - Enjoying Labor as God's Gift"): "There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God."
* [Ecclesiastes 3:12-13](/ecclesiastes/3-12 "Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 - Rejoice and Do Good"): "I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life. And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God."
* [Ecclesiastes 5:18-20](/ecclesiastes/5-18 "Ecclesiastes 5:18-20 - The Blessing of Enjoyment"): "Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for it is his portion."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ecclesiastes 8:15 provides a timeless and counter-cultural message for modern life. In a world often driven by a relentless pursuit of more, a fixation on future achievements, or a preoccupation with unresolved problems, this verse calls us to pause and cultivate a profound sense of gratitude for the simple, present blessings. It challenges the notion that true joy is found only in grand accomplishments or perfect circumstances. Instead, it invites us to recognize the divine hand in the everyday acts of eating, drinking, and fellowship, seeing them as sacred gifts rather than mere necessities or fleeting pleasures. This perspective encourages a healthy balance between diligent labor and joyful rest, reminding us that our toil is not an end in itself, but a means through which God provides for our sustenance and our capacity for enjoyment. To truly live out this verse means embracing contentment, practicing mindfulness of God's grace in the mundane, and resisting the urge to postpone joy until all of life's mysteries are solved or all injustices rectified.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "simple pleasures" in your daily life do you often overlook or take for granted, failing to recognize them as gifts from God?**
* **How does the Preacher's emphasis on finding joy "under the sun" challenge your own aspirations or anxieties about the future?**
* **In what ways can you intentionally "commend mirth" in your own life and the lives of those around you, seeing it as a divinely sanctioned practice?**
* **How does understanding enjoyment as a "portion of his labour, which God giveth him" reshape your view of work-life balance and rest?**

### FAQ
**Does Ecclesiastes 8:15 advocate for a hedonistic lifestyle?**

Answer: No, Ecclesiastes 8:15 does not advocate for hedonism, which is the pursuit of pleasure as the highest good. Instead, it presents a pragmatic and divinely grounded wisdom for living "under the sun." The Preacher's counsel to "eat, and to drink, and to be merry" is framed by the understanding that these are gifts "which God giveth him." This is not about unrestrained indulgence, but about gratefully receiving and enjoying the basic, tangible blessings that God provides amidst life's uncertainties and toil. It's a recognition that true satisfaction, within the earthly sphere, comes from appreciating what is given, rather than endlessly striving for what is elusive or ultimately futile ([Ecclesiastes 1:2](/ecclesiastes/1-2 "Ecclesiastes 1:2 - Vanity of Vanities")). It's a call to find contentment in God's provision.

**How does this verse reconcile with the book's overall theme of "vanity" or "futility"?**

Answer: Ecclesiastes 8:15, along with similar verses throughout the book (e.g., [Ecclesiastes 3:12-13](/ecclesiastes/3-12 "Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 - Rejoice and Do Good"), [Ecclesiastes 9:7](/ecclesiastes/9-7 "Ecclesiastes 9:7 - Eat, Drink, and Be Merry")), provides the Preacher's antidote or counterpoint to the pervasive theme of "vanity." While much of life "under the sun" is indeed futile or inexplicable from a human perspective, Koheleth concludes that God has nevertheless provided moments of genuine enjoyment. These moments are not subject to the same futility because they are direct gifts from God, a "portion" that abides with a person from their labor. Thus, the enjoyment of life's simple pleasures is presented as the wisest response to the otherwise perplexing and fleeting nature of existence. It's a divinely sanctioned way to find meaning and contentment in a world that often seems meaningless.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Ecclesiastes 8:15 points to the "better thing" found in simple, God-given joys "under the sun," it ultimately foreshadows the transcendent and eternal joy found in Christ. The Preacher's commendation of mirth, eating, and drinking as a divinely given portion finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus, who is the true source of all good gifts and the one who transforms human toil and fleeting pleasures into eternal significance. Jesus invites us to a "better portion" that will not be taken away ([Luke 10:42](/luke/10-42 "Luke 10:42 - The Better Portion")). He is the "bread of life" and the "living water" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life"); [John 4:14](/john/4-14 "John 4:14 - Jesus, the Living Water")), offering a satisfaction that far surpasses mere physical sustenance. The joy that abides with us, which Koheleth sought, is ultimately the "joy of the Lord" ([Nehemiah 8:10](/nehemiah/8-10 "Nehemiah 8:10 - The Joy of the Lord is Your Strength")), a fruit of the Holy Spirit ([Galatians 5:22](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22 - Fruit of the Spirit")). Through Christ, our labor is not in vain ([1 Corinthians 15:58](/1_corinthians/15-58 "1 Corinthians 15:58 - Labor in the Lord Not in Vain")), and the ultimate feast awaits us in the marriage supper of the Lamb ([Revelation 19:9](/revelation/19-9 "Revelation 19:9 - Marriage Supper of the Lamb")), where joy will be full and eternal, no longer limited by the constraints of "under the sun."

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 2:24

[There is] nothing better for a man, [than] that he should eat and drink, and [that] he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it [was] from the hand of God.

Ecclesiastes 5:18

¶ Behold [that] which I have seen: [it is] good and comely [for one] to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for it [is] his portion.

Ecclesiastes 3:12

I know that [there is] no good in them, but for [a man] to rejoice, and to do good in his life.

Ecclesiastes 3:13

And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it [is] the gift of God.

Ecclesiastes 9:7

Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.

Ecclesiastes 9:9

Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that [is] thy portion in [this] life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.

1 Timothy 4:3

Forbidding to marry, [and commanding] to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.