Not only is the Book of Ecclesiastes depressing, it's read in synagogues at exactly the wrong time. The festival of Sukkot is called "the time of our rejoicing," yet we read this book which basically says that whatever we do in this world is ultimately worthless. That's a pretty uplifting thought! In fact, there are a number of verses in this book that one could take exception to. For example, "what advantage does one gain from all of the work he does under the sun?"
Really? How about he earns money to feed his family, to give charity and to support his family in the observance of the commandments! That's an advantage! There are a number of such assertions about things that all of humanity recognizes as being a good thing. "Don't become too wise.." is a good piece of advice? Isn't wisdom the gateway to so much blessing?
It is the last verse of this book that makes its magic.
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