Reading for March 19th

Read Ecclesiastes 4.1-16. In verses 1-12: Observationon oppression, work and riches. These obeservations and three conclusions. In verses 1-3: Based onhis observation of oppression, the Teacher concludes that those who have never experienced the tragedy of life are best. Better than: A common phrase in the book (4.6;4.9; 4.13; 5.1; 5.5) and in traditional wisdom (Prov 15.16-17). In verses 4-6: Based on his observation of competitive envy and the fate of the lazy, he concludes that more possessions are not worth more strife. In verses 7-9: Based on his observation of a single person working hard for riches and no one with whom to share, he concludes that companionship is preferable to wealth. In verse 12: Threefold cord: Since the topic has been two, the mention of three is curious; it perhaps refers generically to "streght in numbers." In verses 13-16: Reversals. Better than: See comment on 4.3. The king and youth may allude to specific people (Saul and David); Pharoah and Joseph), or the Teacher may be telling a story to make a point (see 8.10-11; 9.14-15). The tale demonstrates the power of wisdom, even to overcome social expectations, yet the hero of one age is not remembered in the next. Comment or Questions..