Ecclesiastes 5:12 Commentary

Verse: “The sleep of a laboring man is sweet: whether he eat little or much: but the abundance of the rich shall not suffer him to sleep.”

Introduction

The book of Ecclesiastes is a profound exploration of the meaning of life, often reflecting on the futility of worldly pursuits and the impermanence of human endeavors. In Ecclesiastes 5:12, the writer contrasts the restful sleep of the laborer with the restless condition of the wealthy. This commentary synthesizes insights from several public domain sources, providing a rich understanding of the verse’s themes and practical implications.

The Sweet Sleep of the Laboring Man

“The sleep of a laboring man is sweet”. This phrase captures the essence of fulfillment that accompanies honest work. Matthew Henry notes that labor, whether physical or mental, brings a sense of satisfaction that contributes to restful sleep. The toil of the hands, whether one eats little or much, does not detract from the sweetness of sleep. The laboring man, through his honest efforts, finds rest in the knowledge that he has earned his keep.

Albert Barnes adds that this sweet sleep signifies a deep psychological sleep—one free from worries and the burdens that often plague those who have more. The laboring man, who relies on his effort for daily sustenance, can rest without the anxiety of loss that accompanies the wealthy.

The Contrast with the Rich

In stark contrast stands the wealthy individual: “but the abundance of the rich shall not suffer him to sleep.” This highlights a paradox of wealth. Adam Clarke points out that while wealth can provide comfort and luxury, it often comes with its own set of anxieties. The rich man’s abundance can lead to restlessness; the more one possesses, the more one has to worry about maintaining, protecting, and increasing that wealth.

• Fear of Loss: Wealth brings fears of theft, devaluation, and loss, which prevents peace and sweet sleep.
• Worry and Anxiety: The rich often find themselves preoccupied with their investments and the fluctuations of fortune.
• The Burden of Responsibility: With wealth comes a sense of responsibility that can weigh heavily on the mind, disrupting restful slumber.

Theological Implications

Theologically, this verse invites readers to re-evaluate their view of wealth and its supposed benefits. It prompts an examination of the true sources of contentment. Henry emphasizes that while labor can be grueling, it also leads to an authentic and peaceful existence. The somewhat ironic truth is that true wealth lies not in material possession but in the ability to be satisfied with what one has.

Barnes emphasizes that this reality serves as a reminder of God’s providential care. The laborer, who may seem poor by the world’s standards, often enjoys a richer life in terms of peace and satisfaction than the wealthy. This reflects a biblical motif where God values a humble spirit and hard work over abundant riches.

Practical Applications

For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, this verse beckons a practical examination of how we approach our lives and work. Below are some considerations:

• Embrace Work: Encourage a theology of labor that sees work as a gift from God. Help congregants understand the divine value in labor and its potential to lead to personal fulfillment and peace.
• Rediscover Contentment: Teach the importance of finding contentment in the daily provisions of life rather than pursuing wealth for wealth's sake. This could involve promoting gratitude practices among church members.
• Highlight the Dangers of Wealth: Use this verse to caution against the unholy cravings for wealth and abundance, addressing how these can lead to anxiety and restlessness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ecclesiastes 5:12 poignantly presents a reflection on the contrasting experiences of peace between the laborer and the wealthy. While riches promise comfort, they often fall short in delivering true contentment. The laborer, grounded in toil and simplicity, embodies the peace that comes with honest work. For scholars and leaders in faith communities, this narrative challenges prevailing notions about wealth and presents a significant opportunity to lead discussions that prioritize spiritual well-being over material gain.