Ecclesiastes 1:14

I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit.

Word-by-Word Analysis

רָאִ֙יתִי֙

H7200

I have seen

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הַֽמַּעֲשִׂ֔ים

H4639

all the works

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

שֶֽׁנַּעֲשׂ֖וּ

H6213

that are done

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

תַּ֣חַת

H8478

the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc

הַשָּׁ֑מֶשׁ

H8121

under the sun

the sun; by implication, the east; figuratively, a ray, i.e., (architectural) a notched battlement

וְהִנֵּ֥ה

H2009

lo!

הַכֹּ֛ל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#10

הֶ֖בֶל

H1892

and behold all is vanity

emptiness or vanity; figuratively, something transitory and unsatisfactory; often used as an adverb

#11

וּרְע֥וּת

H7469

and vexation

a feeding upon, i.e., grasping after

#12

רֽוּחַ׃

H7307

of spirit

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Ecclesiastes Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Ecclesiastes chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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Topics

Wisdom