### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kishrôwn**, represented by `{{H3788}}`, describes concepts of **success, advantage, equity, good, or right**. It is a rare term, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Ecclesiastes. In this context, it is used to evaluate the inherent value and quality of human labor and its results.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H3788}}` serves as a key term in the Preacher's analysis of life. It is presented as a positive quality of work, though its ultimate benefit is questioned. In one instance, a man's labor is characterized by **wisdom** `{{H2451}}`, **knowledge** `{{H1847}}`, and **equity** `{{H3788}}`, yet the fruits of this labor are left to another who did not work for it [[Ecclesiastes 2:21]]. The term also describes skillful or **right** work, which is immediately identified as a source of envy from one's neighbor, leading to the conclusion that this too is vanity [[Ecclesiastes 4:4]]. Finally, it is used to question the tangible **good** or advantage of accumulating possessions, which are consumed by others [[Ecclesiastes 5:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used alongside `{{H3788}}` to build its meaning within Ecclesiastes:
* `{{H5999}}` **ʻâmâl** (toil, i.e. wearing effort; hence, worry): This word for toil or travail describes the effort that is being evaluated. The Preacher considers all **travail** and every **right** `{{H3788}}` work, pointing to the close relationship between the effort and its quality [[Ecclesiastes 4:4]].
* `{{H4639}}` **maʻăseh** (an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; work): This term for work or deed is directly qualified by **kishrôwn**. The focus is not just on any work, but on "every **right** work," suggesting a standard of excellence or success [[Ecclesiastes 4:4]].
* `{{H2451}}` **chokmâh** (wisdom (in a good sense)): This is presented as a companion quality to **kishrôwn**. Ideal labor is performed not only with equity but also with **wisdom** [[Ecclesiastes 2:21]].
* `{{H1847}}` **daʻath** (from יָדַע; knowledge): Paired with wisdom and equity, **knowledge** is another essential component of the commendable labor that the Preacher observes, even as he questions its lasting benefit [[Ecclesiastes 2:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3788}}` is centered on the wisdom literature's critique of earthly pursuits.
* **The Paradox of Success:** The term is used to highlight a central paradox: even when human effort is successful, right, or equitable, it does not guarantee satisfaction or security. Skillful work can breed envy, which is vanity [[Ecclesiastes 4:4]].
* **Qualities of Labor:** **Kishrôwn** helps define the ideal attributes of human endeavor, placing a high value on equity, wisdom, and knowledge. However, it also serves a somber purpose by showing that even this ideal form of labor is subject to the frustrating realities of a fallen world, where its rewards can be fleeting or given to the undeserving [[Ecclesiastes 2:21]].
* **Evaluating True Advantage:** The word forces a deeper question about what constitutes real "good" or "advantage." While riches may increase, the Preacher uses **kishrôwn** to ask what benefit the owner truly receives, suggesting that material gain is not the ultimate measure of value [[Ecclesiastes 5:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3788}}` is a specialized term used within Ecclesiastes to probe the nature of success and skill. Far from being a simple affirmation of good work, **kishrôwn** functions as a critical tool to examine whether earthly achievement, even at its best, can provide lasting meaning. It captures the tension between the value of skillful and equitable labor and the ultimate vanity of human effort when considered solely "under the sun."
TRV