Ecclesiastes 7:10Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Let us strive to exist in a manner where we do not regard the past as superior to either the present or the future. The book of Ecclesiastes warns against this mindset: ‘Lest thou say, “What is the matter, that the days of old were more blessed than these? For thou hast not enquired of these things in wisdom.”’ If we conclude that former times are preferable to later ones, we may hear the judgment, ‘In vain have you suffered so much, having turned good works into nothing by subsequent negligence.’

Do not value the past more highly than the present, for both are fashioned by God, the Creator. A person's virtues contribute to a good life, whereas vices lead to a life filled with trouble. Avoid claiming that the times of Moses or Christ were superior to the present. In those days, many still doubted, and their times were marked by evil, whereas today there are many who believe, of whom the Savior declared: 'blessed are those who have not seen and have believed' (John 20:29). Therefore, strive to ensure that your current days are always more fulfilling than those that have gone before. This way, when your goodness begins to wane, it cannot be said of you: 'You are good: who will forbid you not to obey the truth' (Galatians 5:7)?

Those who assert that their forebears enjoyed a superior life are mistaken, failing to understand that true understanding is not synonymous with material wealth, and that as brilliant as silver may shine, it is still less substantial than its shadow. A person’s existence is determined not by perishable riches but by wisdom.

The focus of the wise individual ought to be directed towards the ultimate purpose of life; thus, it is more prudent to acknowledge the fleeting and trivial nature of worldly pleasures rather than to indulge in self-deceptive joys derived from them (7: 2-8). From the transience of earthly matters, the preacher warns everyone to be vigilant against discontent and impatience. At the onset of any situation, one should carefully evaluate it and refrain from haughty opposition; typically, outcomes are more favorable than their beginnings, making it wise to wait patiently for the resolution (9: 10). Complaining is the folly of those who resist God's sovereign order (11). Wisdom surpasses material wealth; it grants life to a person (12: 13).