Old Testament
Ecclesiastes 6:2
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Imagine having everything you could ever want—wealth, honor, and comfort.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Solomon
- Written
- Around 935 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Those searching for life's meaning
A man to whom God has given riches, wealth, and honor, so that he lacks nothing for his soul of all that he desires, yet God does not give him power to eat of it, but a stranger eats it. This is vanity, and it is an evil disease.
A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger eateth it: this is vanity, and it is an evil disease.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Imagine having everything you could ever want—wealth, honor, and comfort. You might think that this is the ultimate success, but what if you can’t enjoy any of it? This is the situation described here. A person can have all the riches in the world, yet if they lack the ability to enjoy them, it feels pointless. It’s like having a feast laid out before you, but being unable to take a single bite. This situation is not just frustrating; it’s described as a serious problem, almost like a disease. It highlights the emptiness that can come from material wealth when it doesn’t bring true satisfaction. Ultimately, it reminds us that life is not just about accumulating things, but about experiencing joy and fulfillment. Without the power to enjoy what we have, our riches become meaningless. This teaches us to seek deeper meaning in life beyond just material possessions, focusing on what truly nourishes our souls instead of just our wallets. It’s a call to reflect on what really matters.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ecclesiastes 6:2 to your life
Consider what truly brings you joy in life. Are you focusing too much on accumulating wealth or status? Reflect on how you can enjoy what you have and find deeper satisfaction beyond material possessions. Seek experiences and relationships that enrich your life and soul instead of just your bank account. Live fully in the moment, appreciating what you have now.
Curated for this public verse page. Ecclesiastes Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ecclesiastes 6:2 mean?
Ecclesiastes 6:2 highlights the futility of having wealth and honor if one cannot enjoy them. It suggests that material possessions can feel meaningless if they do not bring true satisfaction or joy.
What is the meaning of 'vanity' in Ecclesiastes 6:2?
In Ecclesiastes 6:2, 'vanity' refers to the emptiness or futility of life when one possesses riches but lacks the ability to enjoy them. It emphasizes that mere accumulation of wealth does not guarantee happiness.
How does Ecclesiastes 6:2 relate to life's meaning?
Ecclesiastes 6:2 suggests that life’s meaning goes beyond accumulating wealth. It encourages individuals to seek joy and fulfillment in experiences rather than just in material possessions.
What lessons can we learn from Ecclesiastes 6:2?
We can learn that true satisfaction comes from enjoying what we have rather than just focusing on acquiring more. It encourages reflection on what truly enriches our lives and souls.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.