Ecclesiastes 4:8
There is one alone, and there is not a second; yea, he hath neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither saith he, For whom do I labour, and bereave my soul of good? This is also vanity, yea, it is a sore travail.
Ecclesiastes 4:8 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Book of Ecclesiastes, the author reflects on the futility of human labor and the pursuit of material wealth when detached from a greater purpose or meaning. The verse describes a person who is alone, without any family or loved ones, yet tirelessly works to accumulate riches that never bring satisfaction. Despite all their efforts, they are left wondering who will ultimately enjoy the fruits of their labor. The verse concludes that this endless cycle of work and desire for wealth is ultimately meaningless and a burden to the individual. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pursuing wealth without considering deeper spiritual or ethical values. The verse challenges readers to reflect on the true purpose of their labor and to seek meaning beyond material gain.
Theological Overview
This verse from Ecclesiastes 4:8 provides a poignant reflection on the futility of pursuing wealth and material possessions. The speaker laments the emptiness of a life dedicated solely to work and accumulation of riches. Theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of seeking fulfillment in spiritual matters rather than worldly gains. The phrase "there is one alone, and there is not a second" highlights the isolation and emptiness that come from prioritizing material wealth over relationships and spiritual growth. The word "vanity" in this context points to the meaningless nature of a life consumed by greed and selfish ambition. By exploring the deeper meaning of the words and phrases within this verse, readers are encouraged to consider the true value of their pursuits and the importance of living a purposeful and meaningful life grounded in faith and love.
Ecclesiastes 4:8 in other translations
American Standard Version
There is one that is alone, and he hath not a second; yea, he hath neither son nor brother; yet is there no end of all his labor, neither are his eyes satisfied with riches. For whom then, [saith he], do I labor, and deprive my soul of good? This also is vanity, yea, it is a sore travail.
World English Bible
There is one who is alone, and he has neither son nor brother. There is no end to all of his labor, neither are his eyes satisfied with wealth. “For whom then, do I labor, and deprive my soul of enjoyment?” This also is vanity. Yes, it is a miserable business.
Douay-Rheims
There is but one, and he hath not a second, no child, no brother, and yet he ceaseth not to labour, neither are his eyes satisfied with riches, neither doth he reflect, saying: For whom do I labour, and defraud my soul of good things? in this also is vanity, and a grievous vexation.
Geneva Bible (1599)
There is one alone, and there is not a second, which hath neither sonne nor brother, yet is there none end of all his trauaile, neither can his eye be satisfied with riches: neither doeth he thinke, For whome doe I trauaile and defraude my soule of pleasure? this also is vanitie, and this is an euill trauaile.