Ecclesiastes 2:25
For who can eat, or who else can hasten hereunto, more than I?
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֣י
H3588
כִּ֣י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
מִ֥י
H4310
מִ֥י
Strong's:
H4310
Word #:
2 of 7
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
וּמִ֥י
H4310
וּמִ֥י
Strong's:
H4310
Word #:
4 of 7
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
יָח֖וּשׁ
or who else can hasten
H2363
יָח֖וּשׁ
or who else can hasten
Strong's:
H2363
Word #:
5 of 7
to hurry; figuratively, to be eager with excitement or enjoyment
Historical Context
Solomon had unparalleled resources for pleasure—gourmet food, fine wine, elaborate feasts (1 Kings 4:22-23). Yet he testifies that these don't automatically produce joy. Wealth creates opportunity but not capacity for enjoyment. This wisdom counters both prosperity gospel (blessing equals happiness) and ascetic denial (pleasure is evil). The New Testament affirms that God 'giveth us richly all things to enjoy' (1 Timothy 6:17), but warns against trusting riches. The Puritans emphasized grateful reception of God's provisions as means of grace, enjoyed within proper bounds.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you possess the capacity to enjoy God's provisions gratefully, or does anxiety and striving rob you of satisfaction?
- How does this verse challenge the assumption that more resources automatically produce more happiness?
Analysis & Commentary
The Preacher adds, 'For who can eat, or who else can hasten hereunto, more than I?' This verse emphasizes that enjoyment of life's provisions comes from God, not human effort. The Hebrew 'chush' (חוּשׁ, hasten/enjoy) suggests eagerness or ability to experience pleasure. Solomon, with unlimited resources, testifies that capacity for enjoyment is God's gift—wealth doesn't guarantee satisfaction. This anticipates verse 26: God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please Him. The verse teaches contentment theology: ability to enjoy God's gifts matters more than accumulating possessions. True satisfaction is divine gift, not human achievement.