Ecclesiastes
This is one of 24 books of the Tanakh or Hebrew Bible where it is classified as one of the Ketuvim (or "Writings"). Originally written c. 450-180 BCE, it is among the canonical Wisdom Books in the Old Testament. The title Ecclesiastes is a Latin transliteration of the Greek translation of the Hebrew Kohelet (meaning "Gatherer", but traditionally translated as "Teacher" or "Preacher").
The book is a musing by a King of Jerusalem as he relates his experiences and draws lessons from them, often self-critical. The author, who introduced himself as the Son of David discussed the meaning of life and the best way to live. He proclaims all the actions of man to be inherently vain as both wise and foolish end in death.
Kohelet clearly endorses wisdom as a means for a well-lived earthly life. In light of this senselessness, one should enjoy the simple pleasures of daily life, such as eating, drinking, and taking enjoyment in one's work, which are gifts from the hand of God.
The book concludes with the injunction: "Fear God, and keep his commandments; for that is the whole duty of everyone" (12:13)
Ecclesiastes has over time influenced Western Literature.
American novelist Thomas Wolfe wrote: "Of all I have ever seen or learned, that book seems to me the noblest, the wisest, and the most powerful expression of man's life upon this earth—and also the highest flower of poetry, eloquence, and truth. I am not given to dogmatic judgments in the matter of literary creation, but if I had to make one I could say that Ecclesiastes is the greatest single piece of writing I have ever known, and the wisdom expressed in it the most lasting and profound."
So well, here are some excerpts(words of wisdom) from the teacher or philosopher.
"I have also learnt why people work so hard to succeed: it is because they envy their neighbours. But it is useless, it is like chasing the wind." Ecclesiastes 4 vs 4
"The more you worry, the more likely you are to have bad dreams, and the more you talk, the more likely you are to say foolish things." Ecclesiastes 5vs3
"Keep your temper under control; it is foolish to harbour a grudge." Ecclesiastes 7vs9
"Never ask,"Oh, why were things so much better in tthe old days?" It's not an intelligent question. Ecclesiastes 7vs10
"Everyone who lives ought to be wise; it is as good as receiving an inheritance and will give you as much security as money can. Wisdom keeps you safe- this is the advantage of knowledge. " Ecclesiastes 17vs11
"There is no one on earth who does what is right all the time and never makes mistakes." Ecclesiastes 7vs 20
"I found something more bitter than death- woman. The love she offers you will catch you like a trap or like a net; and her arms round you will hold you like a chain. A man who pleases God can get away, but she will catch the sinner." Ecclesiastes 7vs26
"No one can keep himself from dying or put off the day of his death. That is a battle we cannot escape; we cannot cheat our way out." Ecclesiastes 8vs8
"Young people, enjoy your youth. Be happy while you are still young. Do what you want to do, and follow your heart's desire. But remember that God is going to judge you for whatever you do." Ecclesiastes 11 vs 9
"No matter in which direction a tree falls, it will lie where it fell." Ecc. 11vs 3
"Always look happy and cheerful. "
Ecclesiastes 9 vs
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