Bible Figure
Qohelet
the anonymous author of the Book of Ecclesiastes
Qohelet, traditionally rendered the Preacher or Teacher, is the speaker of Ecclesiastes who reflects on life's apparent futility and the proper response to God.
Biography
Ecclesiastes identifies its speaker as Qohelet, son of David and king in Jerusalem, and presents extended reflections on labor, pleasure, wisdom, wealth, mortality, injustice, and the limits of human understanding. Christian and Jewish tradition long associated the book with Solomon, though the text does not explicitly give the personal name Solomon. The book concludes by calling people to fear God and keep His commandments.
Biblical Significance
Qohelet's reflections expose the inability of earthly achievements to provide ultimate meaning in a world marked by death and uncertainty, directing readers toward reverence and accountability before God.