INTRODUCTION

TITLE The English title, Ecclesiastes, comes from the Greek and Latin translations, with the LXX using the Greek term ekklesiastes, meaning “preacher,” which is derived from the word ekklesia, which is translated in the NT as assembly. Both the Greek and Latin versions derive the title from the Hebrew title, Qoheleth, which means “the one who calls or gathers people.”

Along with Ruth, Song of Songs, Esther, and Lamentations, the book of Ecclesiastes is one of the “5 scrolls,” or Megilloth. These books were read by later rabbis in the synagogue on 5 special occasions – Ecclesiastes was read on Pentecost.

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AUTHOR AND DATE: Solomon is the accepted author, given (1) the titles fit Solomon, “son of David, king in Jerusalem” (1:1); the writing chronicles Solomon’s life (1 Kgs 2-11); (3) the role of one who wrote “taught people knowledge” and “wrote many proverbs” (12:9) corresponds with Solomon’s life. The date likely in his later years (no later than 931 BC).

BACKGROUND AND SETTING: Even before God gave an additional measure of wisdom, David recognized Solomon’s wisdom (1 Kgs 2:6, 9). The Lord gave Solomon a “wise and discerning heartS(1 Kgs 3:7-12). Solomon gained renown for his wise decisions (1 Kgs 3:16-28), and a reputation that attracted “all the kings of the earth.” In spite of some truly unwise behavior, Solomon never abandoned his faith in God (Eccl 12:9).

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