Ecclesiastes 2:22

For what hath man of all his labour, and of the vexation of his heart, wherein he hath laboured under the sun?

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֠י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

מֶֽה

H4100

properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and

הוֶֹ֤ה

H1933

For what hath

to be (in the sense of existence)

לָֽאָדָם֙

H120

man

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

בְּכָל

H3605

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

עֲמָל֔וֹ

H5999

of all his labour

toil, i.e., wearing effort; hence, worry, whether of body or mind

וּבְרַעְי֖וֹן

H7475

and of the vexation

desire

לִבּ֑וֹ

H3820

of his heart

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

שֶׁה֥וּא

H1931

wherein

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

#10

עָמֵ֖ל

H6001

he hath laboured

toiling; concretely, a laborer; figuratively, sorrowful

#11

תַּ֥חַת

H8478

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

#12

הַשָּֽׁמֶשׁ׃

H8121

under the sun

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ecclesiastes, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Ecclesiastes.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this verse's literary context within Ecclesiastes chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

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Topics

Wisdom