Ecclesiastes 5:11

"He who loves silver shall not be satisfied with silver, nor he who loves abundance, with increase. This also is vanity."

Key Reflection

In first-century Israel, wealth was often symbolized by silver and gold, and people frequently aspired to accumulate abundance through hard work and business ventures. The author of Ecclesiastes, addressing these aspirations, declares that such pursuits are ultimately futile—no matter how much one amasses, the desire for more remains unquenchable. This sentiment resonates with a broader theme found throughout Ecclesiastes, which critiques human efforts to find meaning in material success and underscores the fleeting nature of earthly wealth and satisfaction.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

They ... that eat them -i. e., The laborers employed, and the household servants.

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