- Why does Kohelet return (Ecclesiastes 4:1-3) to a theme he mentioned earlier in Ecclesiastes 3:16? How is this relevant to his search for the purpose of life?
- Besides oppression by the powerful of the weak, what other evils does he find that appear endemic to people?
- Does Ecclesiastes 4:4 imply a totally negative judgment of the competitive nature of people?
- What advice does he give by quoting the proverb in Ecclesiastes 4:6?
- What connection is there between the futility he finds in competition (Ecclesiastes 4:4-6) and the futility of all his labor (Ecclesiastes 4:7-8)?
- Compare these two paths of living (competition and miserliness) with Ben Zoma’s teaching (Avot 4:1) “Who is truly wealthy? One who is content with his/her lot.”
- What benefits does the practical Kohelet see in having companions (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)? How does this contrast with a life of rivalry or of “me-ism”?
- Although Ecclesiastes 4:13-16 are very difficult, what is the gist that Kohelet conveys? What does Kohelet think about fame in this episode?
- What opinion does Kohelet have regarding going to “God’s House” (Temple), the services conducted there and the people who attend? What does he recommend as most appropriate behavior vis a vis Temple attendance and services (Ecclesiastes 4:17)?
