And how does the book end?
It concludes with images of aging and death and funeral processions - death which comes to all and brings even more uncertainties. Yet in the presence of death, perhaps especially so, the reader is encouraged to enjoy life.
And while gazing upon these images of death, there is a reprise of the opening words of the book: Vanity of vanities, says the Teacher, All is vanity.
What is this "vanity" of which the Teacher speaks? Vanity is a translation of the Hebrew word, hevel. Literally it means breath, breeze, vapour, or mist; it is translated with words such as vanity, meaninglessness, absurdity, emptiness, and incongruity.
Whether understood more as liquid or as air, hevel is fundamental to sustaining life despite the fact that it evaporates and dissipates. (Harper Collins Study Bible, page 892)Yes, we are limited human beings who live fleeting lives - like mist that evaporates in the morning sun; yes, many of the goals humans pursue are equally transitory - like a brief breeze upon one's face; yes, in contrast, wickedness and oppression endure. But, says the Teacher, God has given us the gift of life and work and is in our midst sustaining our lives and all of creation, so enjoy the life and work God has given to you.
What images do you use to describe your life and work?
What is easy and what is challenging to enjoy about your life and work?
Where do you sense God's presence in your life and work and all of creation and what difference does that make to you?
Marilyn Malton
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