“Wisdom” and “toil” in the Royal Experiment of Ecclesiastes 1:12 – 2:26 : a grammatico-historical study

Abstract

In recent years, numerous studies have attempted to approach the book of Ecclesiastes using different methodologies. This has resulted in various interpretations. This is also the case for smaller parts of Ecclesiastes, such as Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:26, known in the vernacular as “the Royal Experiment”. This study contributes to the interpretation of the Royal Experiment by examining two of its key concepts, namely “wisdom” and “toil”, which have not received enough study up to date. The main research question is: “What is the meaning and function of ‘wisdom’ and ‘toil’ in the Royal Experiment of Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:26?” In order to answer this question, this study employs a literature study on the introductory questions to Ecclesiastes, word study of concepts “wisdom” and “toil” and grammatico-historical exegesis of Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:26. The study begins with historical reconstruction and verbal meaning. The use and function of the concepts “wisdom” and “toil” is studied in other biblical and extra-biblical texts. Subsequently, thorough exegesis is done of Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:26. Ultimately this study moves from historical reconstruction and verbal meaning to the theocentric message of the Royal Experiment of Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:26 in terms of “wisdom” and “toil”. The preliminary hypothesis is that the Royal Experiment in terms of “wisdom” and “toil” demonstrates that a human being is not to know the meaning of life through empirical experience, but to enjoy life as a gift from the hand of God. To formulate it in another way using the words of Ecclesiastes: The concepts “wisdom” and “toil” in the Royal Experiment ...