- Why would the editor want to attribute these writings to David’s son? Why is he called “Kohelet”, a word derived from “kahal”, assembly (the Greek, “Ecclesiastes” is derived from “ekklesia” meaning assembly, church)? Can it be a title for one who assembles and teaches assembled students? (Note Ecclesiastes 12:8 where the Hebrew uses the definite article “The Kohelet”.)
- The word “hevel” (Ecclesiastes 1:2) commonly translated “vanity”, literally means “breath, vapor”. What does Kohelet mean by this word? Is it a question about the meaning of life for which he seeks a response or a conclusion, a thesis about life which he will now try to prove?
- Ecclesiastes 1:3 appears to be a rhetorical question that implies a criterion for judging all aspects of life. How would you describe that criterion?
- What is the underlying philosophy developed in the series of descriptions presented in Ecclesiastes 1:4-9 in which Kohelet touches upon the natural cycles of the physical universe: of sun and wind and water? What mood does this create in the reader?
- How does Kohelet summarize his thesis that “all is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2) in Ecclesiastes 1:10-11?
- In Ecclesiastes 1:12-13 what is this king’s major activity? Is this the typical or expected preoccupation of an ancient (or of any) sovereign?
- What does Kohelet now choose to investigate as a possible goal of life (Ecclesiastes 1:13)?
- What conclusion does he reach about this possible solution to what is best for people to pursue in life (Ecclesiastes 1:14-17)?
- Ecclesiastes 1:18 may be citing a proverb. In what way does it confirm what Kohelet has thus far discovered? Does he imply that “ignorance is bliss”?
