Catholic Dictionary
Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
Your Term:
ECCLESIASTES
A book of the Old Testament, called in Hebrew Koheleth or in English "the Preacher." Once held to have been written by Solomon, now agreed that the author is unknown. The theme of the book is the transient character of all earthly goods, compared with the true wisdom that is found in the fear of the Lord. Though sober in tone, it is not pessimistic, since hope for happiness is held out to those who direct their lives according to reason and the will of God. (Etym. Greek ekkl_siastes, preacher; Hebrew Q_heleth.)
