Ecclesiastes 5:10

Arabic Simplified (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)

مُحِبُّو المَالِ لَا يَقْنَعُونَ مَهْمَا جَمَعُوا مِنْهُ. وَمُحِبُّو المُقتَنَيَاتِ لَا يَقْنَعُونَ مَهْمَا كَدَّسُوا. هَذَا أيْضًا زَائِلٌ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse says that no matter how much money or wealth you have, if you love it too much, you will never be satisfied. It's like a constant chase with no end, which is ultimately pointless or 'vanity'. The speaker, traditionally thought to be Solomon, is warning against the trap of greed.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a big bag of candy. You think that if you have more and more candy, you'll be really happy. But even after eating a lot, you still want more. It's like the candy never makes you feel happy enough. That's what this verse is saying about money.

Historical Background

Ecclesiastes is traditionally attributed to King Solomon, written around the 5th century BC. It was written for the people of Israel, discussing the meaning and purpose of life in light of the human condition and the pursuit of wisdom. The cultural setting was one of material wealth and religious reflection.

Living It Out Today

Consider a scenario where someone is constantly buying new gadgets or clothes, thinking that more items will make them happier. Instead, they find themselves always wanting the latest model or style, never truly satisfied with what they have.

Topics

• greed
• contentment
• materialism
• wisdom
• vanity
• wealth

Related Verses

• Proverbs 23:4-5
• Luke 12:15
• 1 Timothy 6:10
• Matthew 6:24
• Psalm 62:10

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'vanity' mean in this context?

In this context, 'vanity' refers to something that is ultimately meaningless or futile, as in the pursuit of wealth for its own sake can never truly satisfy or fulfill a person.

Why does Solomon use silver as an example?

Silver is used as an example of wealth and material goods because it was a common form of currency and value in ancient times, similar to how money functions today.

How can we avoid the vanity described in this verse?

Avoiding the vanity of greed involves finding satisfaction in things beyond material wealth, such as relationships, personal growth, and spiritual fulfillment.

What other biblical figures besides Solomon wrote about greed?

Several other biblical figures, including Jesus in the New Testament and the Proverbs, have written extensively about the dangers of greed and the importance of contentment.