could easily have varied the usage from the formula that occurs several times (1:14; 2:1, 11, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 26; 3:19; 4:4, 7, 8, 16; 5:9 [10E]; 6:2, 9; 7:6; 8:10, 14; 11:8, 10). The function of the motto is to guide the reader toward a proper interpretation of Qohelet’s words. He will validate this thesis in what follows, and that includes everything Qohelet says, including his advice to enjoy life insofar as possible. [3] The rhetorical question of 1:3 explains and justifies the assessment