Ecclesiastes 4:7
Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun.
Original Language Analysis
וְשַׁ֧בְתִּי
Then I returned
H7725
וְשַׁ֧בְתִּי
Then I returned
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
1 of 6
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
וָאֶרְאֶ֥ה
and I saw
H7200
וָאֶרְאֶ֥ה
and I saw
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
3 of 6
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
הֶ֖בֶל
vanity
H1892
הֶ֖בֶל
vanity
Strong's:
H1892
Word #:
4 of 6
emptiness or vanity; figuratively, something transitory and unsatisfactory; often used as an adverb
Historical Context
This verse functions as a structural marker in Ecclesiastes' literary composition. Ancient Hebrew wisdom literature often used repetitive phrases to signal topic transitions and maintain thematic unity. The recurring 'under the sun' (29 occurrences) and 'vanity' (38 occurrences with various Hebrew terms) create a cumulative effect—no matter which angle the Preacher examines earthly existence, the same fundamental emptiness emerges. This rhetorical strategy builds toward the book's climactic conclusion: fearing God and keeping His commandments provides the only escape from comprehensive vanity. Early church fathers noted Ecclesiastes' structural sophistication in building its case.
Questions for Reflection
- What new areas of 'vanity under the sun' has God been revealing to you through changing circumstances and observations?
- How does the repetition of 'vanity' throughout Ecclesiastes help you detach from temporal pursuits and prioritize eternal values?
Analysis & Commentary
Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun—the Hebrew hevel (הֶבֶל, vapor/futility) appears again as the Preacher transitions to another illustration of life's meaninglessness 'under the sun.' The phrase 'I returned' (shavti, שַׁבְתִּי) indicates shifting observational focus to examine a different manifestation of futility. This brief transitional verse introduces verses 8-12's treatment of isolation versus companionship.
The repetition of 'vanity under the sun' creates thematic continuity throughout the book—whether examining oppression (4:1), achievement (4:4), or isolation (4:7-8), the Preacher finds the same verdict: 'under the sun' (temporal, earthly perspective) everything proves hevel (vapor-like, transient). Only the fear of God and eternal perspective transform earthly existence from meaningless vapor to purposeful stewardship (12:13-14).