Throughout the book of Ecclesiastes, there are many claims that are made about life, its meaning, and how it should be lived. One of the main claims can be summarized by saying that “the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the breath returns to God who gave it” (Ecclesiastes 12.7). The author expresses through this verse that Yahweh is in control of all circumstances of life for every individual; It can be seen as a cycle as He has the power to both give and take life. This idea connects readers to the bigger idea that “whatever God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it” (3.14b). Due to these conditions, the author feels that “it is God’s gift that all should eat and drink and take pleasure in all
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In contrast, though, Proverbs seems to be more straight-forward. While there are many ideas expressed in Ecclesiastes, it is still somewhat possible to produce a central theme of the the book. In addition, Ecclesiastes also tends to be not-so clear-cut, as there are several instances where it seems two conflicting ideas are expressed. On the other hand, Proverbs seems to give specific directions to its readers. A reader would be more likely to read Ecclesiastes in times of sadness, whereas a reader could read Proverbs when seeking wisdom and instruction in various …show more content…
No matter what happens, “He has made everything suitable for its time” and that He has done this “so that all should stand in awe before Him” (Ecclesiastes 3.11a,14b). This book communicates to the people that there will be times of good and bad; there will be times of death, killing, mourning, and war, but there will also be times of birth, healing, laughing, and peace (3.2-8). The timing of these “seasons” are determined by Yahweh (3.1). The idea that Yahweh is in control of their circumstances, no matter how terrible, can serve as a comfort to the people. In addition, the author of this book advises the people to “banish anxiety from [their] minds”, but to keep in mind their main duty: “Fear God, and keep His commandments” (12.13b). This instills the idea that, above everything else, no matter what occurs in the life of the people, they are to remember Yahweh’s power and seek to follow His
In contrast, though, Proverbs seems to be more straight-forward. While there are many ideas expressed in Ecclesiastes, it is still somewhat possible to produce a central theme of the the book. In addition, Ecclesiastes also tends to be not-so clear-cut, as there are several instances where it seems two conflicting ideas are expressed. On the other hand, Proverbs seems to give specific directions to its readers. A reader would be more likely to read Ecclesiastes in times of sadness, whereas a reader could read Proverbs when seeking wisdom and instruction in various …show more content…
No matter what happens, “He has made everything suitable for its time” and that He has done this “so that all should stand in awe before Him” (Ecclesiastes 3.11a,14b). This book communicates to the people that there will be times of good and bad; there will be times of death, killing, mourning, and war, but there will also be times of birth, healing, laughing, and peace (3.2-8). The timing of these “seasons” are determined by Yahweh (3.1). The idea that Yahweh is in control of their circumstances, no matter how terrible, can serve as a comfort to the people. In addition, the author of this book advises the people to “banish anxiety from [their] minds”, but to keep in mind their main duty: “Fear God, and keep His commandments” (12.13b). This instills the idea that, above everything else, no matter what occurs in the life of the people, they are to remember Yahweh’s power and seek to follow His