Vanity

Vanity:  A Study in Ecclesiastes

The Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes is the life journal of Solomon the ancient sage and king over Israel, and it contains his observations of and reflections upon the nature of things in the world.  Ecclesiastes is a profound and problematic book.  It records an intense search for meaning and satisfaction in life on this earth, especially in view of all the injustices and apparent absurdities that surround us.  Although Solomon during his life possessed and experienced just about everything one could desire in this world, he was left feeling empty and saddened by his worldly pursuits and possessions.  After all was said and done, Solomon came to the conclusion that the only joy in life is in fearing God and obeying His commands.  Apart from having a relationship with God and experiencing life as He intended it, Solomon’s final conclusion is that life is essentially brief and meaningless.  Hence, his opening statement to his journal is “Vanity of vanities!  All is vanity!”  Come along with us this spring as we learn from this book of ancient wisdom about how we can live a life that isn’t sad and empty but rather full of joy and meaning!