4:1 all the oppression Oppression and injustice are a part of life (Eccles 5:8). Their prevalence contributes to the author’s declaration that everything is senseless (1:2; 12:8).

4:4 is envy between one man and another Contrasts with admonishments to enjoy one’s work (see 2:24; 3:13, 3:22). In the ot, human envy (qin'ah) is negative when directed toward others. It is described as a destructive emotion (Job 5:2; Prov 14:30) that is more powerful than anger (Prov 6:34; 27:4). The Bible often warns against envy of the wicked (Psa 37:1; Prov 3:31; 23:17; 24:1). Divine envy, however, is presented positively. Passages warning about idolatry often describe God as “jealous” (Exod 20:5; 34:14). Similarly, human jealousy for God is presented positively (Num 25:11–13; 1 Kgs 19:10; Psa 69:9).

is vanity and chasing wind Envy prevents people from finding satisfaction in their work. Compare Eccles 1:2 and note; and 2:17 and note.

4:5 The fool refuses to work with his hands Refers to someone who refuses to work. Laziness leads to destruction—a common theme in Wisdom literature. See Prov 10:4–5; 14:23; 21:25; 24:30–34.

4:6 two fists full with toil Just as laziness is harmful and should be avoided, so is working without the ability to enjoy one’s work. See Eccles 6:1–6.

4:8 is vanity—it is an unhappy business The Hebrew text here uses a pairing of words similar to those used in 2:21 (see note on 2:21). This emphasizes the frustration of laboring for what seems like little to no purpose.

4:9 a better reward for their toil Working together leads to more satisfying outcomes than working alone (v. 8) or working out of envy (v. 4).

4:10 one will help up his companion In addition to receiving a better reward for labor (v. 9), people who work together can help each other in times of need.

4:11 But how can one person be warm The author uses an example of people lying together to keep warm. He does not intend any sexual meaning here. The author uses this example to show the benefits that come with companionship or working together. People who work with others are more effective than they can be alone.

4:12 an assailant may overpower Continuing to show the benefits of companionship (vv. 9–11), the author highlights the protection enjoyed by numbers. While one person might be overcome, two people can withstand an attack, and a group of three is stronger still.

4:13 an old but foolish king While old age is typically associated with wisdom (Job 12:12), here the old king is a fool.

4:14 out of the prison house to Most likely a reference to the poor, wise youth of the previous verse. In this case, the point would be that is better to be poor and wise than rich and foolish.

4:16 will not rejoice in him Even though the wise youth ascended to the throne, he is eventually despised, rendering his wisdom useless.