Tyndale Open Study NotesEcclesiastes 4

This section discusses various topics, such as justice, humans and animals, oppression, moderation, companionship, politics, and worship.

all the oppression: Oppression is widespread in society. It occurs in families, religions, workplaces, governments, and from foreign powers.

In places with oppression, the dead are better off than the living. The dead no longer suffer mistreatment.

Most people are driven to succeed by competition. Since the rewards have no real value, the Teacher suggests moderation (Ecclesiastes 4:5–6) instead of envy.

Fools do not try to succeed and end up poor. Others work frantically, using all their time and effort, to chase temporary wealth they will not have time to enjoy (compare Proverbs 23:4–5). Wise people practice moderation and contentment (tranquility).

This lonely man is an example of the idea in Ecclesiastes 4:6.

Two are better than one: The solitary man (Ecclesiastes 4:8) reminds us of the benefits of partnerships in business and personal life.

Better is a...wise youth: Wisdom is valuable because it helps in real-life situations.

A ruler's popularity is temporary and fleeting, like the wind.