### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **qôheleth**, represented by `{{H6953}}`, is a term used for a **preacher** or lecturer. Its base definition describes an assembler, abstractly referring to the act of preaching, and it is used as a 'nom de plume' for the author of Ecclesiastes. It appears 7 times in 7 unique verses, exclusively within this book.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The title of **Preacher** `{{H6953}}` is used to identify the speaker in the book of Ecclesiastes, who is described as the "son of David, king in Jerusalem" [[Ecclesiastes 1:1]] and who states, "I the Preacher was king over Israel in Jerusalem" [[Ecclesiastes 1:12]]. The core message delivered by the **Preacher** is a recurring, framing statement: "Vanity of vanities... all is vanity" ([[Ecclesiastes 1:2]], [[Ecclesiastes 12:8]]). The role involves an active search for and presentation of wisdom, as the **Preacher** "sought to find out acceptable words" [[Ecclesiastes 12:10]] and taught the people knowledge [[Ecclesiastes 12:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the role and message of the **Preacher**:
* `{{H1892}}` **hebel** (vanity): This word, meaning "emptiness or vanity" and something "transitory and unsatisfactory," is the central theme of the **Preacher's** message. It is repeated throughout his declaration that all earthly pursuits are **vanity** [[Ecclesiastes 1:2]].
* `{{H1847}}` **daʻath** (knowledge): The Preacher's purpose was to impart **knowledge**. The text states that because the **Preacher** was wise, he "taught the people knowledge" [[Ecclesiastes 12:9]], underscoring the educational aspect of his role.
* `{{H1245}}` **bâqash** (to search out): This verb describes the active effort of the **Preacher**. He didn't just speak, but "sought to find out acceptable words" [[Ecclesiastes 12:10]], highlighting a process of inquiry and striving after truth.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6953}}` is tied to the Preacher's distinct mission and message.
* **A Commitment to Truth:** The **Preacher** diligently **sought** `{{H1245}}` to discover not just any words, but "acceptable words" `{{H2656}}` that were also "upright" `{{H3476}}` and true [[Ecclesiastes 12:10]]. This demonstrates a deep concern for both the form and substance of his message.
* **The Teacher of Wisdom:** As a **wise** `{{H2450}}` figure, the **Preacher** fulfilled the role of an educator. He "taught the people knowledge" `{{H1847}}` by giving "good heed" `{{H239}}`, seeking out `{{H2713}}`, and setting in order `{{H8626}}` many **proverbs** `{{H4912}}` [[Ecclesiastes 12:9]].
* **The Proclamation of Vanity:** The fundamental conclusion presented by the **Preacher** is the transitory and unsatisfactory nature of worldly life, encapsulated in the declaration "Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher; all is vanity" `{{H1892}}` [[Ecclesiastes 12:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6953}}` defines a unique figure: the **Preacher**, an assembler and lecturer of wisdom. This role is identified with a king in Jerusalem who undertakes a profound investigation into life. The work of the **Preacher** involves a meticulous process of seeking, evaluating, and ordering knowledge in order to teach the people. Ultimately, this title is tied to the delivery of one of scripture's most sobering messages: that all is **vanity** `{{H1892}}`.
TRV