Ecclesiastes 2:22: “What do people get for all the toil and anxious striving with which they labor under the sun?”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Ecclesiastes 2:22, Solomon poses a question that gets to the heart of human effort and its ultimate purpose. He reflects on the endless work and worry people endure, only to question what they truly gain from it. His use of the word “toil” emphasizes the difficulty and weariness of labor, while “anxious striving” suggests the mental and emotional burden that comes with it. Solomon recognizes that, from a purely earthly perspective (“under the sun”), human labor often feels fruitless and unsatisfying.
This verse reveals the struggle many people face when they pour their lives into work, accomplishments, or material success, only to find that these pursuits fail to provide lasting joy or meaning.
Historical Context
Solomon’s reign was one of unparalleled success and wealth in Israel’s history. As a king known for his wisdom, he oversaw massive building projects, trade, and governance. Yet, despite his achievements, Solomon saw the futility of human labor disconnected from a higher purpose. In the ancient Near East, labor was often tied to survival, legacy, and identity, but Solomon’s reflections transcend cultural norms to address a universal question: what is the ultimate purpose of work?
Theological Implications
This verse underscores the limits of human effort apart from God. While work is a good and God-given responsibility (Genesis 2:15), it becomes burdensome and ultimately meaningless when pursued as an end in itself. Theologically, this verse points to humanity’s need for rest, purpose, and fulfillment in God. It echoes the broader biblical teaching that only work done for God’s glory and kingdom has lasting value (Colossians 3:23-24). Solomon’s question invites us to shift our focus from temporary gains to eternal significance.
Literary Analysis
The verse is framed as a rhetorical question, emphasizing the futility of labor from an earthly perspective. The phrase “under the sun” recurs throughout Ecclesiastes, reflecting the limited viewpoint of life without considering God’s eternal purposes. The juxtaposition of “toil” and “anxious striving” highlights both the physical and emotional toll of human effort. The tone is reflective and somber, consistent with the overarching themes of Ecclesiastes.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Psalm 127:1-2: “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those he loves.”
- Matthew 6:25-27: Jesus teaches not to worry about life’s necessities, pointing to God’s care for His creation.
- 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
These passages provide context for understanding the purpose of labor in light of God’s eternal plan.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Ecclesiastes 2:22 is a call to examine the purpose of their work and striving. It reminds believers not to place their ultimate hope in career success, wealth, or achievements. While work is important, this verse challenges Christians to prioritize their relationship with God and to view their labor as a way to serve Him. It also encourages them to trust God with their worries, knowing that He provides true rest and peace.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
A loving God does not want His people to live burdened by endless toil and worry. By allowing Solomon to wrestle with the question of work’s purpose, God invites us to seek Him as the ultimate source of meaning. His love is evident in His provision of rest, both physically and spiritually (Matthew 11:28). God’s desire is for us to find joy and fulfillment in serving Him rather than being consumed by the anxieties of this world.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus offers the ultimate solution to the futility Solomon describes. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites the weary and burdened to come to Him for rest. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus redeems human labor, giving it eternal significance. By working for His kingdom and relying on His strength, believers can find peace and purpose that transcends the temporary struggles of life. Jesus also assures His followers that their labor for Him is never in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever felt like your work or efforts were pointless? How did you respond?
- How can you shift your focus from temporary gains to eternal significance in your daily work?
- What does it mean to trust God with the outcomes of your labor?
- How does Jesus’ invitation to find rest in Him change your perspective on work and worry?
- In what ways can you use your work as an opportunity to glorify God and serve others?
Ecclesiastes 2:22 reminds us that human effort, apart from God, leads to frustration and weariness. By placing our trust in Jesus, we can find rest and purpose, knowing that our labor for Him has eternal value.