Ecclesiastes

Name and Meaning

Ecclesiastes is the twenty-first book of the Old Testament and consists of twelve chapters. Together with Job and Proverbs, it is classified as wisdom literature (writings concerned with wisdom and the principles of life). Its Hebrew title, Qoheleth, is usually interpreted as "one who speaks before the assembly." The Greek translation rendered this as Ekklesiastes. The Korean title, Jeondoseo, derives from the word jeondoja, "the Preacher," in 1:1. In this context jeondoja refers not to one who proclaims the gospel but to one who teaches the assembly. Korean Catholic Bibles use the name "Qoheleth."

Content

The book opens with the words "Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity" (Ecclesiastes 1:2). It goes on to reflect that the labor, wisdom, pleasure, and wealth gained "under the sun," that is, in this world, are ultimately fleeting. The Hebrew word hevel, translated "vanity," originally means breath or vapor. At the same time, the book urges readers to enjoy the everyday pleasures of eating and drinking that God gives. It closes with the words "Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man" (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

Authorship and Date

Ecclesiastes 1:1 introduces the author as "the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem," and the book has traditionally been attributed to Solomon. Conservative scholars uphold this tradition. Many modern scholars, however, citing its language and thought, regard it as the work of a later, post-exilic author writing in Solomon's voice. Within Judaism, its seemingly skeptical content reportedly prompted debate over its inclusion in the canon. Today the book is read in synagogues during the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot).

Use in Korean Churches

Ecclesiastes is accepted as canonical by all Protestant denominations. Differences among denominations lie mainly in interpretation, particularly in how they approach the question of authorship and how they read the book's seemingly pessimistic tone. In Korean churches it is frequently used in the following settings:

• Funeral services and memorial services: Passages dealing with the finitude of human life, such as "A time to be born, and a time to die" (Ecclesiastes 3:2), are read aloud.
• Year's end and New Year: Chapter 3, which begins "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3:1), is widely used as a text for Watch Night services and New Year sermons.
• Wedding services: "A threefold cord is not quickly broken" (Ecclesiastes 4:12) is quoted to signify the bond uniting husband, wife, and God.
• Sermons for young people: "Remember now thy Creator" from Ecclesiastes 12:1 is often used as a theme for young adult ministry gatherings and retreats.