Ready to dive into the timeless wisdom of Ecclesiastes? Our free Ecclesiastes quiz invites everyone who loves scripture to unlock Solomon's reflections. Whether you're a seasoned scholar or curious explorer, this Ecclesiastes Bible quiz tests your memory, interpretation, and insight. You'll face engaging Book of Ecclesiastes quiz questions and a fun Ecclesiastes trivia challenge focusing on key themes and verses. By the end, you'll gauge your Ecclesiastes knowledge test score and gain a fresh perspective on life's questions. Get instant feedback to share with friends and spark meaningful discussion. Ready to begin? Try these ecclesiastes questions or embark on our ultimate Bible quiz now!
Who is traditionally credited as the author of Ecclesiastes?
Moses
David
Solomon
Isaiah
Jewish and Christian tradition attributes the authorship of Ecclesiastes to King Solomon, the son of David, known for his wisdom. Scholars note the book's references to wealth and splendor align with Solomon's reign. The speaker in Ecclesiastes even calls himself 'son of David' (Ecclesiastes 1:1). More on authorship.
What is the famous opening phrase of Ecclesiastes?
Vanity of vanities
Hear, O Israel
Blessed are the meek
In the beginning
Ecclesiastes begins with the declaration 'Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity.' This sets the tone for the book's reflection on the emptiness of worldly pursuits. The Hebrew phrase '??? ?????' (hevel havalim) appears twice in the first verse. Read the verse.
Ecclesiastes is classified under which section of the Hebrew Bible?
Prophets
History
Torah
Wisdom Literature
Ecclesiastes belongs to the Writings, specifically the Wisdom Literature, along with Proverbs and Job. These books focus on practical insights, reflections on life, and the pursuit of wisdom. Ecclesiastes explores themes like vanity, time, and the human condition. Overview of Wisdom Literature.
In many English Bibles, the speaker of Ecclesiastes is called 'Qoheleth.' What does this term mean?
Priest
Prophet
Preacher
Judge
The Hebrew word Qoheleth (???????) derives from the root qahal, meaning 'assembly.' It is often rendered 'Preacher' or 'Teacher' in English Bibles, indicating one who addresses a congregation. The title captures the book's tone of public reflection. Title explanation.
In which chapter does Ecclesiastes say, 'To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven'?
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Ecclesiastes 3:1 - 8 contains the famous poem about times and seasons, affirming that life unfolds in ordained cycles. The passage reflects the Preacher's theme of life's rhythms and the limits of human control. Read the passage.
Ecclesiastes is found in which testament of the Christian Bible?
New Testament
Old Testament
Gospels
Apocrypha
Ecclesiastes is part of the Old Testament, within the section often called the Writings or Wisdom Books. It predates the New Testament writings by centuries and reflects Israel's ancient wisdom tradition. More on the Old Testament placement.
What is the Hebrew title of the book of Ecclesiastes?
Qoheleth
Yashar
Tehillim
Bereshit
In the Hebrew Bible, Ecclesiastes is titled 'Qoheleth,' meaning 'Preacher' or 'Assembler.' The title reflects the speaker's role of gathering and addressing an assembly with reflections on life. Hebrew title explanation.
Which central theme best describes the message of Ecclesiastes?
The vanity of worldly pursuits
God's covenant with Israel
Prophecy of exile
Detailed ritual law
Ecclesiastes emphasizes the fleeting, 'vanity' nature of human endeavors when pursued for their own sake. The Preacher repeatedly shows that wealth, pleasure, and work alone do not satisfy ultimate meaning. This theme is central to the book's reflections. Theme overview.
Complete the phrase found in Ecclesiastes 1:9: 'There is nothing new under the ______.'
Moon
Sea
Sun
Sky
Ecclesiastes 1:9 states, 'There is nothing new under the sun,' expressing the Preacher's observation of repeating patterns in human experience. It underscores the cyclical nature of life. Verse text.
In Ecclesiastes 2, what conclusion does Qoheleth reach about pursuing pleasure?
It is sinful
It brings lasting joy
It is meaningless
It guarantees wisdom
After indulging in wine, laughter, and great projects, Qoheleth declares all was 'vanity and a striving after wind' (Ecclesiastes 2:11). This highlights his view that pleasure alone fails to satisfy. Chapter context.
Which of the following is NOT listed as a "time" in Ecclesiastes 3:1 - 8?
A time to die
A time to plant
A time to be born
A time to sleep
Ecclesiastes 3:1 - 8 lists contrasting activities, such as 'a time to be born' and 'a time to die,' but 'a time to sleep' is not included. The passage focuses on seasons of action rather than rest. Read it here.
According to Ecclesiastes 12:13, what is described as the whole duty of man?
Fear God and keep His commandments
Seek wisdom above all
Love your neighbor
Enjoy life's pleasures
Ecclesiastes ends with the statement, 'Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.' This summary emphasizes reverent obedience over philosophical speculation. Verse text.
What does Ecclesiastes say about the fate of both the righteous and the wicked?
Only the righteous inherit
They share the same fate of death
They both rise again
Only the wicked perish
Ecclesiastes 9:2 - 3 observes that both the righteous and the wicked share death under the sun, underscoring the book's theme of life's uncertainties. It contrasts divine judgment beyond earthly life. Read more.
Which creature is said to carry your voice to far places if you curse the rich?
Horse
Fish of the sea
Lion
Bird of the air
Ecclesiastes 10:20 warns that 'a bird of the air shall carry the voice' of your curse, illustrating how secrets can spread despite privacy. This metaphor shows the power of reputation. Verse link.
According to Ecclesiastes 4:9, what is better than one?
Alone
Four
Two
Three
Ecclesiastes 4:9 states, 'Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor,' highlighting the value of companionship and cooperation. Read verse.
What does Ecclesiastes 7:9 advise you not to be hasty to do?
Be angry
Speak
Pray
Judge
Ecclesiastes 7:9 cautions, 'Be not hasty in your spirit to be angry, for anger rests in the bosom of fools.' It underscores self-control over impulsive rage. Verse link.
What does Ecclesiastes 5:18 advise a man to do with the wealth and power God gives him?
Invest in land
Enjoy it
Save it all
Give it away
Ecclesiastes 5:18 says that when God gives a man riches and the power to enjoy them, it is his gift to eat, drink, and enjoy his labor. Qoheleth stresses enjoyment as a divine blessing. Read the verse.
According to Ecclesiastes 7:12, like an inheritance, what offers protection?
Strength
Wisdom
Faith
Wealth
Ecclesiastes 7:12 notes that 'wisdom is a defense as money is a defense, but the excellence of knowledge is that wisdom gives life to those who have it.' It highlights wisdom's protective value. Verse link.
In Ecclesiastes 9:4, what is said about the living in contrast to the dead?
They have hope
They work harder
They know more
They suffer less
Ecclesiastes 9:4 observes that 'to him who is joined with all the living there is hope, for a living dog is better than a dead lion.' This underscores the value of life and hope. Read more.
Ecclesiastes 10:1 states that dead flies make the perfumer's ointment yield what?
An offensive smell
Pure oil
No change
A stronger scent
Ecclesiastes 10:1 says, 'Dead flies make the perfumer's ointment give off a stench; so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor.' The image warns that small faults can spoil great reputation. Verse text.
What is said to be better than good ointment in Ecclesiastes 7:1?
Wealth
Funeral rite
A good name
Friendship
Ecclesiastes 7:1 declares, 'A good name is better than precious ointment.' Qoheleth values character and legacy over material luxury. Read the verse.
What does Ecclesiastes 11:1 compare to casting bread upon the waters?
Offering sacrifices
Sharing food with strangers
Giving without immediate profit but expecting future return
Generosity with no return
Ecclesiastes 11:1 says, 'Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days.' This metaphor advises bold generosity or investment yielding later reward. Verse link.
According to Ecclesiastes 6:2, what is said about the man to whom God gives wealth but not the power to eat of it?
He has nothing to show for his labor
He is truly blessed
He will die in peace
He is like a fool
Ecclesiastes 6:2 notes the tragedy of receiving riches, possessions, and honor from God but having no delight in them - this is vanity and a grievous evil. Read more.
The Hebrew title 'Qoheleth' derives from the root qahal. What is the primary meaning of this root?
Hear
Choose
Assemble
Worship
The Hebrew root ??? (qahal) means 'assembly' or 'gathering.' Qoheleth literally means 'one who assembles' or 'preacher,' indicating someone addressing a gathered audience. Lexicon details.
Most scholars date the composition of Ecclesiastes to which period?
10th century BC
3rd century BC
1st century AD
6th century BC
Linguistic and thematic evidence places Ecclesiastes in the Hellenistic period, around the 3rd century BC. The Hebrew shows late forms and it reflects post-exilic thought influenced by Greek ideas. Scholarly dating.
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Study Outcomes
Analyze Key Themes -
Examine the major themes of the Book of Ecclesiastes through targeted quiz questions, deepening your grasp of its philosophical and theological insights.
Recall Memorable Verses -
Identify and remember standout passages from Ecclesiastes by testing yourself in our Ecclesiastes Bible quiz, strengthening verse retention and context.
Interpret Original Meaning -
Decipher the historical and cultural backdrop behind select Ecclesiastes quiz items to appreciate the text's original significance.
Evaluate Personal Understanding -
Gauge your current knowledge with challenging Ecclesiastes trivia questions and reflect on areas for further study.
Compare Philosophical Perspectives -
Contrast different interpretations presented in the Book of Ecclesiastes quiz questions, nurturing a nuanced view of its timeless wisdom.
Apply Timeless Wisdom -
Leverage insights gained from this Ecclesiastes knowledge test to inform daily decisions and spiritual reflection.
Cheat Sheet
Authorship and Historical Context -
Ecclesiastes is traditionally attributed to "Qoheleth," often linked to Solomon, but modern scholarship (e.g., Anchor Bible commentary) dates it to the post-exilic period (circa 3rd century BCE) based on linguistic and thematic analysis. Remember the mnemonic "PLD: Post-Exilic, Literary, Didactic" to recall its era and purpose. This context helps explain the blend of Hebrew wisdom literature with later Persian influences.
The "Vanity of Vanities" Motif -
The Hebrew term hevel, often translated "vanity" or "meaningless," appears 38 times and signals life's fleeting, vapor-like quality (Eccl 1:2). Think "He Vanishes, Everything's Like vapor" to lock in hevel's core meaning. This refrain underscores Ecclesiastes' central theme: the search for lasting purpose amid transience.
Time and Season Poem (Ecclesiastes 3:1 - 8) -
This famous passage pairs contrasting activities ("a time to be born, and a time to die") to teach rhythm and balance in life. Use the simple acronym "TBBD" (To Be Born/Die) to remember the poem's structure of 14 paired actions. Scholars at university theology departments highlight its parallels with Ancient Near Eastern poetry, showcasing Qoheleth's literary design.
Wisdom versus Folly Reflections -
Unlike Proverbs' optimistic view, Qoheleth notes wisdom's limits (Eccl 1:18), observing that increased wisdom brings increased sorrow. A handy formula - W > F but W - S > S (Wisdom outweighs Folly, but Wisdom minus Sorrow is still greater than Sorrow) - helps recall this tension. Academic journals on biblical wisdom literature explore how this balance shapes Ecclesiastes' unique voice.
Conclusion: Fear God and Keep His Commandments -
Ecclesiastes concludes with a clear call: "Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man" (Eccl 12:13). Use "FGKC" as a study acronym - Fear God, Keep Commandments - to summarize the book's final charge. This ending ties Qoheleth's existential inquiries back to faithful devotion, a point emphasized by reputable theological seminaries.
