Ecc 5:9 | MHM | STEP | The Vanity of Riches. Solomon has already explained how things like pleasure, parties, and power are not truly satisfying. Some people agree with him about those things but believe that money is different—that being rich will make them happy. In this section, Solomon warns that chasing wealth is also empty and will not bring real happiness. He shows that both gathering and using riches can leave people unfulfilled, just like chasing after pleasures or fame. v. 9 : Solomon first admits that the earth’s produce is valuable for everyone. The profit of the earth is for all . People’s bodies, made from the earth, need food from it (Job 28:5 ). God kindly gives us enough from the land, even though we do not deserve it (Psalm 68:6 ). The earth provides for all people and animals. Even a king depends on food from the field. This makes farming one of the most important jobs since it helps everyone survive. Those who have much should remember that these gifts are meant for all, not just themselves. Luxurious things might be only for a few, but the earth’s fruit is for everyone. Even those who gain from the sea still need the land (Deuteronomy 33:19 ).

‏ Ecclesiastes 5:9

The Vanity of Riches.

Solomon has already explained how things like pleasure, parties, and power are not truly satisfying. Some people agree with him about those things but believe that money is different—that being rich will make them happy. In this section, Solomon warns that chasing wealth is also empty and will not bring real happiness. He shows that both gathering and using riches can leave people unfulfilled, just like chasing after pleasures or fame.

v. 9: Solomon first admits that the earth’s produce is valuable for everyone. The profit of the earth is for all . People’s bodies, made from the earth, need food from it (Job 28:5 ^a). God kindly gives us enough from the land, even though we do not deserve it (Psalm 68:6 ^b). The earth provides for all people and animals. Even a king depends on food from the field. This makes farming one of the most important jobs since it helps everyone survive. Those who have much should remember that these gifts are meant for all, not just themselves. Luxurious things might be only for a few, but the earth’s fruit is for everyone. Even those who gain from the sea still need the land (Deuteronomy 33:19 ^c).