JW Comments

In Ecclesiastes 2:1, 2 I learn that the pursuit of pleasure and entertainment by itself is madness and vanity. It teaches me that although the pleasures of this world may seem attractive, they have no lasting purpose and cannot fill the emptiness in our hearts. This benefits us by helping us maintain a balanced perspective on entertainment and social activities, reminding us that real and lasting happiness comes from a much deeper source.

In Ecclesiastes 2:4-9 it teaches me that wealth, power and material achievements, like building houses, gardens and accumulating riches, do not bring true happiness. King Solomon had it all, more than anyone before him, but at the end of all his “hard work” he discovered that there was “no real value under the sun.” This benefits us by reminding us not to put our faith in possessions or worldly achievements, since they are not the key to a meaningful life.

In Ecclesiastes 2:10 is a very important gem: “My heart was glad for all my hard work, and that was my reward.” Solomon found satisfaction in the process of working hard to reach his goals. It teaches me that the pleasure is not so much in the end result, but in the effort and dedication we put into our tasks, whether big or small. This benefits us by motivating us to be diligent in everything we do, finding joy and satisfaction in the work itself.

In Ecclesiastes 2:11 I learn that despite all the pleasure and work he did, everything was vanity, “it was chasing after the wind.” It teaches me that if our life is full of achievements but does not have Jehovah at its center, at the end of life we will feel empty. This benefits us by reminding us of the importance of ensuring that our goals and ambitions have a spiritual purpose, so that our work and effort have eternal value.

In Ecclesiastes 2:14-16 I learn the frustration that both the wise and the foolish have the same final destiny: death. It teaches me that human wisdom alone cannot save us from the consequences of sin and imperfection. This benefits us by directing our attention to the only hope of everlasting life, which is found in the ransom provided by Jehovah through his Son, Jesus Christ.

In Ecclesiastes 2:22, 23 it is important to understand that “all his hard work and ambition” only brought man “pain and frustration.” It teaches me that the selfish pursuit of fame, wealth and power only leads us to a state of constant anxiety and restlessness, as we never feel fully satisfied. This benefits us by reminding us that true rest for the heart is found only in serving Jehovah.

In Ecclesiastes 2:24-26 I learn the most valuable gem of this chapter. It teaches me that “there is nothing better for a man than to eat, drink and enjoy his hard work,” because “this too comes from the hand of the true God.” It shows us that true happiness and joy are found in enjoying the simple gifts that Jehovah gives us in daily life, and that He “gives wisdom, knowledge and joy” to the one who pleases Him. This benefits us by motivating us to seek Jehovah’s approval, since it is the only way to find lasting and genuine happiness—not in the pleasures of the world, but in the gifts He has given us.