Ecclesiastes 7:17Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

God assures those who diligently follow Him: ... I will grant him a long life (Psalm 90:16). When Abraham passed away, he did so fully satisfied with his years (Gen. 25:8), while David beseeches, do not let me experience only a portion of my years (Ps. 101:25). One of Job's companions, Eliphaz, well aware of this truth, stated: You will depart this life at a ripe old age, like wheat bundles gathered at the right time (Job 5:26). Furthermore, Solomon affirms with weighty words: The spirits of the wicked are taken before their time (Proverbs 11:30; LXX), and then urges in Ecclesiastes, do not succumb to sin, and do not act foolishly: why should you meet death prematurely?

Refrain from engaging in wickedness and avoid foolishness; what reason is there for you to perish in your own time? For the Lord declares, ‘I do not desire the death of the sinner, but rather that they turn from their ways and live’ (Ezekiel 18:32). It suffices to sin just once; after falling, we must seek to regain our standing! If, as naturalists suggest, the swallow can restore sight to its young with chelidonium, and wounded goats can find healing, why do we not recognize that the gift of repentance is available for those who have sinned?

The utmost form of physical beauty lies in the harmony of the body’s parts, while the highest manifestation of mental beauty exists in the balance of virtues. It has been said by sages that extremes lead to vices: the individual who strives for frugality may fall into greed, and the one who seeks to be generous might succumb to extravagance. Thus, the wise have aptly characterized virtue as the mean, where piety stands as the balance between moral failings. The counsel of the wise aptly advises against excessive righteousness. This guidance suggests we should not harshly judge our neighbors for their transgressions, but rather, let compassion outweigh strict justice, exercising mercy towards those who exceed our expectations for forbearance.

The wise individual's focus should be on the ultimate purpose of life. It is thus more advisable to remember the fleeting nature and triviality of worldly pleasures rather than to fabricate false joy through them (7: 2-8). From recognizing the futility of worldly pursuits, the preacher cautions everyone to guard against discontent and impatience. When initiating a matter, one should examine it carefully and refrain from haughty opposition; for often, it concludes more favorably than its beginning. Therefore, patiently await its resolution (9: 10). Complaining is the action of those who challenge God's authority (11). Wisdom surpasses material wealth; it grants life to an individual (12: 13).