**Interview with the Author of Ecclesiastes**

**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today. It’s a pleasure to have you here. You have penned a remarkable book full of profound reflections. Can you tell us who you are?

**Author:** Thank you for having me. I am traditionally referred to as the Preacher or Koheleth, often believed to be King Solomon. My identity has sparked much discussion, but what matters most is the message conveyed through my writings.

**Interviewer:** Your book, Ecclesiastes, has a unique perspective, often pondering the meaning of life and the futility of human endeavors. What inspired you to write these thoughts?

**Author:** From my observations and experiences, I became increasingly aware of the fleeting nature of life. I sought to explore the vanity of worldly pursuits and the inevitability of death. Despite all the wisdom and achievements, I found there is much that is meaningless. I wanted to share this realization with others, urging them to contemplate what truly brings fulfillment.

**Interviewer:** You often repeat the phrase “vanity of vanities.” Can you explain what you mean by that?

**Author:** Yes, “vanity of vanities, all is vanity” encapsulates the essence of what I observed. Many of our endeavors, such as wealth, status, and pleasure, ultimately amount to nothing in the grand scheme of things. I repeatedly emphasize this to provoke deep thought about life’s priorities and the transient nature of our existence.

**Interviewer:** You also reflect on the inevitability of death and the equal fate that awaits all. How do you reconcile that with the pursuit of joy and fulfillment?

**Author:** It is crucial to embrace the reality of our mortality. Acknowledging that life is fleeting allows one to appreciate its moments deeper. I believe we must seize the days we are given, find joy in our labor, and revel in simple pleasures, for that is where true contentment lies. Life is ephemeral, so we should cherish our days and live wisely.

**Interviewer:** In your exploration of wisdom, you came to a somewhat paradoxical conclusion. Can you share your thoughts on the value of wisdom?

**Author:** Indeed, wisdom offers insight and guidance, but it can bring a greater awareness of the world’s injustices and suffering, which can be burdensome. However, I still believe wisdom is preferable to folly. While it may bring sorrow, it also enriches the human experience, reminding us to act justly and wisely in a world full of uncertainty.

**Interviewer:** You conclude with the admonition to “fear God and keep His commandments.” Can you elaborate on the significance of this message?

**Author:** This conclusion sums up my reflections. Despite life’s unpredictability, a respectful relationship with God provides purpose and direction. In the end, it is our relationship with the divine and our ethical conduct that grant life its true meaning. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by life’s vanity, focusing on our duties to God and others can ground us and offer genuine fulfillment.

**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights and wisdom with us today. Your reflections challenge us to think deeply about our lives and our place in the world.

**Author:** Thank you for the opportunity to share my thoughts. I hope they encourage others to seek a deeper understanding of life, love, and the divine. It’s a journey worth taking.