Book · 1890 · Bible
The Book of Ecclesiastes
With a New Translation
Why people recommend it
The Book of Ecclesiastes is a wisdom text from the Hebrew Bible traditionally associated with Solomon, exploring the meaning of life, human striving, and the ultimate transience of earthly pursuits. On an appearance on The Rubin Report, published on June 19, 2019, spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle recommended the biblical text to viewers seeking to understand deeper existential states. Tolle pointed specifically to the Old Testament book, noting that it opens with the famous refrain, found in older translations, of vanity of vanities, all is vanity. He explained that this ancient text captures a profound sense of disillusionment with conventional egoic pursuits, which can paradoxically serve as a doorway to spiritual awakening and inner peace. By referencing the biblical passage, Tolle illustrated how ancient wisdom traditions address the timeless human predicament of alienation, suffering, and the search for lasting significance. The discussion invited audiences to look beyond material success and examine the deeper psychological and spiritual dimensions of human existence as articulated by ancient philosophers and religious writers throughout history.
Who recommended it
- Eckhart Tolle Recommended
Eckhart Tolle — 1 mention
“if you want to read about that state I recommend in the Old Testament there is the Book of Ecclesiastes which starts with a famous phrase as in the old translation vanity of vanities all is Vanity”