Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.
When God gives someone riches and wealth, and also gives them the ability to enjoy these things, to take their share, and to find joy in their work—this is a gift from God.
The writer is saying that wealth itself isn't the blessing—it's God's gift of being able to enjoy and find satisfaction in what you have and the work you do.
📚 Historical Context
Ecclesiastes was written by someone (traditionally thought to be King Solomon) who had experienced great wealth and luxury but found it ultimately empty without God's blessing. In ancient Israel, prosperity was often seen as a sign of God's favor, but the author emphasizes that the ability to enjoy one's blessings is what truly matters. This verse comes in a section where the writer contrasts those who can enjoy God's gifts with those who accumulate wealth but find no satisfaction in it.
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