Chapter Summary

The doctrine of the vanity of the creature, and the impossibility of finding satisfaction without God.

Discussion Questions for Ecclesiastes, Chapter 1

1. How does the repeated theme of "vanity" or "meaninglessness" in Ecclesiastes 1 resonate with your own observations and experiences in life? What gives your life meaning? Why?
2. How have the pursuit of certain goals or achievements in your life felt ultimately futile?
3. Ecclesiastes 1 describes the cycles of nature and compares them to the cycles of human life. How do these reflections on the repetitive nature of things affect your view of time and existence?
4. Ecclesiastes 1 contrasts the eternal nature of God with the temporary nature of human endeavors. How does this perspective influence your understanding of what is truly enduring in life?
5. Are there aspects of your life that you consider more enduring or eternal in nature? What is nature of those aspects in your life?
6. How can the reflections on the cyclical nature of life in Ecclesiastes 1 be applied to contemporary society? Please give an example of an event or issue that demonstrates this application and how does a cyclical nature apply?
7. In what ways do you see the pursuit of knowledge, work, and pleasure manifesting in the modern world, and how might these pursuits align with or deviate from the themes in Ecclesiastes 1?
8. Ecclesiastes was written thousands of years ago, yet its themes seem to resonate with people today. Why do you think the reflections on vanity and the cyclical nature of life remain relevant across different eras?
9. The chapter speaks of the weariness that comes with increasing knowledge (Ecclesiastes 1:18). How can a thirst for knowledge be both fulfilling and exhausting?
10. Ecclesiastes 1:2 states, "Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity." What do you think the author means by "vanity" in this context?

Key Words/Phrase

Vanity, v. 2.

Characters

God, Solomon.

Strong Verse(s)

8