Synopsis: The author of this book is not named other than to be referred to as the “Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem.” Whether the king in Jerusalem is the Preacher himself or King David is unsure. If the Preacher is both a son of David and the king, it would most likely be the writings of King Solomon. If the Preacher is not the king, it could be a reference to any of David’s many sons. Regardless of the authorship, this book comprises the thoughts of a wealthy Jew who experiences the sorrows and disappointments of life and who is trying to reconcile these life experiences to God and discover the true meaning of life.
Key Verses: Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14