Ecclesiastes
INTRODUCTION
This book reports the efforts of “the Teacher,” long believed to be Solomon, to find meaning in life apart from a personal relationship with God. His pessimistic conclusion: such a life is “meaningless,” and will lead to despair. Only those who “fear God and keep His commandments” can live in hope.
OUTLINE OF CONTENTS
| I. | Prologue: Life Is Meaningless | Ecc. 1:1–11 |
| II. | Proof: Meaninglessness Demonstrated | Ecc. 1:12–6:12 |
| III. | Preferences: Making the Best of a Meaningless Life | Ecc. 7:1–12:8 |
| IV. | Epilogue: Call to Fear God | Ecc. 12:9–14 |
