Bible Commentaries
Ecclesiastes 4

Verses 1-16

From this general survey the preacher returned to examine the condition of the beings whom he had described as being no better than the beasts. He looked out upon them, and saw them in suffering, and concluded that death or nonexistence is preferable to life. He declared, moreover, that toil is nothing worth, as it produces envy and striving. This leads him further to declare the vanity of success under such conditions. The wealthy man stands alone, and in his loneliness is more helpless than are the poor, who yet have comrades. And, finally, this led him to declare the emptiness of kingship. The old king who has become foolish is set aside for the youth who is yet poor and wise. This last reflection is not one of satisfaction, but of cynical despair, for the preacher declares, "This also is vanity, and a striving after wind."