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.
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.
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.
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.
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