Ecclesiastes 4

4:1 all the oppression: Abuse is rampant at many levels in society—in family, religion, the workplace, government, and foreign powers.

4:2 Where oppression reigns, the dead are better off than the living. Those who have died are no longer mistreated.

4:4 Most people are motivated to success by a competitive drive. Since the fruits of these efforts have no intrinsic value, the Teacher recommends that moderation (4:5-6) replace envy.

4:5-6 Fools do not even try to succeed and end up impoverished. Others frantically devote two handfuls—all their time and effort—to hard work in pursuit of fleeting wealth that they will have no time to enjoy (cp. Prov 23:4-5). Wise people practice moderation and contentment (quietness).

4:7-8 This solitary man is a case study of the principle expressed in 4:6.

4:9-12 Two people are better off than one: The solitary man (4:8) brings to mind the advantages of partnerships for business and for personal well-being.

4:13-14 It is better to be . . . wise: Wisdom is valuable for its practical benefits.

4:15-16 As with everything else, a ruler’s popularity is only temporary and fleeting, like the wind.