The Preacher reaches a sobering conclusion: 'The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.' The repeated formula emphasizes historical repetition. Human experience, wisdom, folly, sin, suffering—all repeat across generations. The phrase 'no new thing under the sun' doesn't deny innovation but asserts that fundamental human nature, problems, and patterns remain constant. Technology changes but human hearts don't; circumstances vary but core issues persist. This realism counters both naïve progressivism (humanity constantly improving) and novelty-seeking (the next thing will finally satisfy). Only God can create genuinely 'new' things—new covenant, new creation, new heavens and earth (Isaiah 65:17; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Revelation 21:5).
Historical Context
Solomon's era witnessed significant technological and cultural developments—advanced architecture (Temple), international trade, literary achievement. Yet the Preacher insists these don't constitute fundamental novelty. Ancient empires rose and fell exhibiting the same patterns: pride, conquest, oppression, judgment. Human nature remained constant despite changing circumstances. Post-exilic readers, having experienced Babylon's fall after defeating Jerusalem, recognized historical patterns repeating. The New Testament affirms this: Jesus warned that false christs and wars would continue until the end (Matthew 24:6-11). Church history confirms the pattern—heresies recycling, moral failures repeating, same temptations appearing in new guises.
Questions for Reflection
What supposedly 'new' trends are actually repetitions of ancient patterns, and how does recognizing this provide wisdom?
How does God's promise of making 'all things new' (Revelation 21:5) provide hope that transcends the repetitive cycles Ecclesiastes describes?
Analysis & Commentary
The Preacher reaches a sobering conclusion: 'The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.' The repeated formula emphasizes historical repetition. Human experience, wisdom, folly, sin, suffering—all repeat across generations. The phrase 'no new thing under the sun' doesn't deny innovation but asserts that fundamental human nature, problems, and patterns remain constant. Technology changes but human hearts don't; circumstances vary but core issues persist. This realism counters both naïve progressivism (humanity constantly improving) and novelty-seeking (the next thing will finally satisfy). Only God can create genuinely 'new' things—new covenant, new creation, new heavens and earth (Isaiah 65:17; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Revelation 21:5).