Ecclesiastes 5:4Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

I maintain that the military leader Jephthah foolishly made a promise, as noted in Judges 11:30-31. St. Ambrose expands upon this narrative in his work 'On Virginity' (2. 5-7), where he narrates how Jephthah vowed to sacrifice to the Lord whatever first greeted him upon his return home, ultimately regretting that vow when he encountered his daughter at the doorstep. In his sorrow, he tore his garments and exclaimed, "Alas, my daughter! Because of you I am in a grievous predicament. You have been the cause of my grief" (Judg. 11:35). Although he carried out his harsh judgment out of a sense of religious duty, he also established an annual mourning period for his family, instructing them to grieve for her.

It is important to be honest, understanding that it is far more advantageous to refrain from making a commitment than to vow and subsequently fail to fulfill it.

Concerning the matter of virginity, no explicit command has been given, and we therefore leave it to the discretion of those who wish to take it as a commitment. However, we advise them to refrain from making hasty promises, for as Solomon wisely states, “It is better for you not to promise, than to promise and not fulfill it.” The virgin must maintain holiness in both body and spirit, being a sacred dwelling for God, a house for Christ, and a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit. It is essential that one who has taken a vow demonstrates the sincerity of her promise through actions that reflect her commitment to righteousness, motivated by genuine devotion rather than a disparagement of marriage. She should not be idle or aimless, nor should her mind waver; instead, she ought to be sincere, temperate, chaste, pure, and cautious in her associations, particularly avoiding those of ill-repute.

Every one of us is capable of fulfilling our dedicated prayers. Thus, we present them by renouncing worldly distractions and committing ourselves to serve the Lord with heartfelt enthusiasm, choosing to forsake all attachments to the world and its pursuits. We bring forth these prayers when we scorn worldly accolades and reject material wealth, vowing to hold fast to the Lord with a contrite heart and a spirit humbled by poverty. We lift these prayers when we commit ourselves to uphold perfect chastity and unwavering patience at all times, or to eradicate from our hearts the seeds of anger and despair that lead to death.

It is of no benefit for an individual to claim faith while failing to act in accordance with their professed commitments, as Scripture instructs: When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it, for He does not delight in a careless and thoughtless vow. It is preferable to refrain from making promises altogether than to pledge and subsequently fall short of fulfilling that promise (Ecclesiastes 5:3-4). To illustrate this, consider whether anyone would feel content if their servant addressed them as 'master' continually, offering endless flattery yet neglecting the tasks assigned to them. Therefore, if we find words without corresponding actions unsatisfactory, how much more futile is our faith to God when it lacks deeds?

Regarding the situation in which an individual aims to perform a good deed but fails to carry it out, such a person will face judgment, as established by the holy Basil. In this instance, there was a voluntary act, initiated through a request and a commitment. Therefore, dear ones, take heed and do not treat this matter lightly when you encounter the teaching that "it is better for you not to promise than to promise and not fulfill." Was it not within your ability? Why did you choose to allow (...) to deceive the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3, 4)?

The preacher reflects on the various experiences of existence. Observing the ways in which one person burdens another, he concludes that enduring such extensive wickedness may render life itself undesirable (4:1-3). He notes the fervent concerns and efforts of a merchant striving to outdo his peers, driven by envy, pride, and rivalry. In contrast, another individual yields to sloth, wasting away in idleness and ultimately meeting an untimely end. It is wise to steer clear of both extremes and to diligently seek the means necessary to fulfill one’s basic requirements (4:6).