Ecclesiastes 4

summary
Ecclesiastes chapter 4 reflects on the harsh realities of life under the sun, highlighting the oppression, loneliness, and futility often experienced in the world. The writer observes that many suffer without comfort or justice, making death or never having been born seem preferable to enduring such hardship. He also critiques the endless pursuit of success driven by envy, which ultimately leads to emptiness. The chapter emphasizes the value of companionship, noting that two are better than one for support, work, and resilience. It concludes by observing the fleeting nature of popularity and leadership, underscoring the theme of life's impermanence and the vanity of worldly achievements.

key verse
4:9-10 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up.

related verse
Hebrews 10:25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.