I know that there is nothing better for themThis phrase reflects the wisdom literature's emphasis on the pursuit of meaning and fulfillment in life. The author, traditionally identified as Solomon, speaks from a perspective of experience and observation. The phrase suggests a conclusion drawn from a life of exploration and reflection. In the broader context of Ecclesiastes, this statement acknowledges the limitations of human understanding and the futility of earthly pursuits without divine perspective. It echoes the sentiment found in
Ecclesiastes 2:24-25, where the enjoyment of life is seen as a gift from God.
than to rejoice
Rejoicing is a recurring theme in the Bible, often associated with the presence and blessings of God. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, joy was not merely an emotion but a response to God's goodness and faithfulness. This aligns with the teachings found in the Psalms, such asPsalm 16:11, which speaks of the fullness of joy in God's presence. The call to rejoice is also a reminder of the temporary nature of earthly life and the importance of finding joy in the present moment, as seen inPhilippians 4:4, where believers are encouraged to rejoice always.
and do good
The exhortation to "do good" reflects the ethical and moral teachings of the Old Testament, particularly the Law of Moses, which emphasized justice, mercy, and righteousness. This phrase underscores the importance of living a life that aligns with God's commandments and reflects His character. The call to do good is echoed in the New Testament, such as inGalatians 6:9-10, where believers are encouraged to not grow weary in doing good. It also points to the life of Jesus Christ, who went about doing good (Acts 10:38), serving as the ultimate example for believers.
while they live
This phrase highlights the temporal nature of human existence and the urgency of living a meaningful life. In the historical context of Ecclesiastes, life was often seen as fleeting and unpredictable, a theme that resonates throughout the book. The emphasis on "while they live" serves as a reminder of the brevity of life, as seen inJames 4:14, which compares life to a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. It encourages readers to make the most of their time on earth by rejoicing and doing good, aligning with the biblical call to live purposefully and in accordance with God's will.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
SolomonTraditionally considered the author of Ecclesiastes, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. He reflects on the meaning of life and the pursuit of happiness.
2.
IsraelThe context of Ecclesiastes is set within the nation of Israel, where Solomon reigned as king. The cultural and religious backdrop of Israel influences the themes of the book.
3.
The Preacher (Qoheleth)The speaker in Ecclesiastes, often identified with Solomon, who explores the purpose and value of human endeavors.
Teaching Points
The Pursuit of JoyTrue joy is found in recognizing God's sovereignty and goodness in our lives. As believers, we are called to rejoice in the blessings and opportunities God provides.
The Call to Do GoodOur lives should be marked by acts of kindness and goodness. This reflects God's character and serves as a testimony to others.
Contentment in God's ProvisionUnderstanding that there is "nothing better" than to rejoice and do good encourages us to find contentment in God's provision and purpose for our lives.
Living with PurposeEcclesiastes challenges us to live intentionally, making the most of our time by aligning our actions with God's will.
Eternal PerspectiveWhile life is fleeting, our actions have eternal significance. Doing good and rejoicing in God prepares us for eternity.
Lists and Questions
Top 10 Lessons from Ecclesiastes 3
Why did God permit the Holocaust?
How can we live peacefully with everyone?
Is God opposed to human enjoyment and happiness?
What does the Bible say about unemployment?(12)
I know.--Literally,
I knew: i.e.,I came to know. The writer is relating the conclusions at which he successively arrived.
To do good.--This phrase is always used elsewhere in a moral sense: "to act rightly." When enjoyment is meant, the phrase used is, as in the next verse, "to see good;" but the context seems to require that this sense should be given to the phrase in this verse also.
Verse 12. -
I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice; rather,
I knew,
perceived,
that there was no good for them;
i.
e. for men. From the facts adduced, Koheleth learned this practical result - that man had nothing in his own power (see on Ecclesiastes 2:24) which would conduce to his happiness, but to make the best of life such as he finds it. Vulgate,
Cognovi quod non esset melius nisi laetari.
To do good in his life;
Τοῦ ποιεῖν ἀγαθόν; (Septuagint);
Facere bene (Vulgate). This has been taken by many in the sense of "doing one's self good, prospering, enjoying one's self." like the Greek
εϋ πράττειν, and therefore nearly equivalent to "rejoice" in the former part of the verse. But the expression is best taken here, as when it occurs elsewhere (e.g.
Ecclesiastes 7:20), in a moral sense, and it thus teaches the great truth that virtue is essential to happiness, that to "trust in the Lord... to depart from evil, and to do good" (
Psalm 36:3, 27), will bring peace and content (see in the epilogue,
Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14). There is no Epicureanism in this verse; the enjoyment spoken of is not licentiousness, but a happy appreciation of the innocent pleasures which the love of God offers to those who live in accordance with the laws of their higher nature.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
I knowיָדַ֕עְתִּי(yā·ḏa‘·tî)Verb - Qal - Perfect - first person common singular
Strong's 3045:To knowthatכִּ֛י(kî)Conjunction
Strong's 3588:A relative conjunctionthere is nothingאֵ֥ין(’ên)Adverb
Strong's 369:A non-entity, a negative particlebetterט֖וֹב(ṭō·wḇ)Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 2896:Pleasant, agreeable, goodfor [men] thanכִּ֣י(kî)Conjunction
Strong's 3588:A relative conjunctionto rejoiceלִשְׂמ֔וֹחַ(liś·mō·w·aḥ)Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 8055:To brighten up, be, blithe, gleesomeand doוְלַעֲשׂ֥וֹת(wə·la·‘ă·śō·wṯ)Conjunctive waw, Preposition-l | Verb - Qal - Infinitive construct
Strong's 6213:To do, makegoodט֖וֹב(ṭō·wḇ)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2896:Pleasant, agreeable, goodwhile they live,בְּחַיָּֽיו׃(bə·ḥay·yāw)Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 2416:Alive, raw, fresh, strong, life
Links
Ecclesiastes 3:12 NIVEcclesiastes 3:12 NLTEcclesiastes 3:12 ESVEcclesiastes 3:12 NASBEcclesiastes 3:12 KJV
Ecclesiastes 3:12 BibleApps.comEcclesiastes 3:12 Biblia ParalelaEcclesiastes 3:12 Chinese BibleEcclesiastes 3:12 French BibleEcclesiastes 3:12 Catholic Bible
OT Poetry: Ecclesiastes 3:12 I know that there is nothing better (Ecclesiast. Ec Ecc Eccles.) 
