Ecclesiastes 5

5:1 Though the house of God provides opportunity for reverent words and measured promises, it is primarily a place for listening.

5:3 Too much activity . . . too many words: Moderation should characterize our efforts and words (cp. Prov 10:19).

5:4-5 Keep all the promises you make to him: This is virtually a direct quote from the law (Deut 23:21-23; see also Prov 12:22; 20:25). Vows to God were voluntary, but once they were made, it was obligatory to keep them.

5:7 Fear God: Reverence for God is the foundation for worthwhile words and useful activities (see 12:1; Prov 1:7).

5:8-9 For every official is under orders from higher up, and matters of justice get lost in red tape and bureaucracy. Even the king milks the land for his own profit! Or For one official watches over another, and higher officials are over them. The land benefits from a king who cultivates the field. The NLT understands these verses to mean that bureaucracy brings oppression rather than justice, all the way up to the king (see also 1 Sam 8:11-18). This should not be surprising because that is how bureaucracies tend to function. Others interpret the verses along the lines of the alternate translation above: The king and his officials provide oversight to restrain injustice and oppression. The former view is more in keeping with the realistic perspective of the Teacher.

5:10 Because we are created as spiritual and not just physical beings, possessions and wealth can never completely satisfy us.

5:12 People who work hard sleep well: Hard work and moderation yield the formula for a peaceful, productive life. Pursuing wealth leads to unnecessary anxieties (5:3).

5:13-14 Hoarding riches . . . everything is lost: Possessions are transitory and can be lost for any number of reasons.

5:16-17 Working simply to gain possessions is like working for the wind; it leads to being frustrated, discouraged, and angry.

5:18-20 The prescription for enjoying life is repeated: We should enjoy our food, drink, and work and appreciate them as gifts from God.