Ecclesiastes 6:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

It is preferable to observe with the eyes than to drift aimlessly in the spirit. However, this too is futile and a daydream of the soul. Simmachus has effectively expressed this by stating, "it is better to strive than to drift aimlessly," implying that it is more beneficial to align our actions with the guidance of the intellect, often regarded as the spiritual eye, rather than to follow the desires of the heart. This aligns with what is articulated in Ezekiel, who speaks of those "who walk in the will of their heart." Additionally, it admonishes the arrogant and self-righteous by indicating that a person who considers all aspects is superior to one who values only their own achievements; indeed, nothing is worse than this last state, which is more empty than the wind.

Numerous individuals lose their rationality due to enticing objects that captivate the gaze of sinful desires, stirring the spirit and leaving a yearning that leads to empty pursuits.

In order to combat the irrational craving for material wealth, the righteous individual asserts that riches hold certain value when utilized; however, when detached from any enjoyment, they become utterly worthless. A life of opulence devoid of pleasure is deemed less desirable than a miscarriage, which signifies complete emptiness. The wealthy person, though unaware of true nothingness, experiences the void, while the miscarriage remains oblivious to its state. Existence itself pales in comparison to such a life, regardless of its duration. Human labor and wisdom do not fulfill the heart; thus, it is wiser to embrace genuine goods in moderation, to discipline one's desires, and to refrain from fruitless conflicts with a divine force to fulfill them. We lack certainty about whether our pursuits are truly beneficial or if their attainment will bring joy, and considerations of afterlife rewards, which often provide solace to individuals, cannot be taken into account.