We know from our study in The Kings that Solomon departed from the Lord in his later years, trading authentic affection for God for the worship of idols. It should not surprise us then that Solomon feels everything is meaningless. He tested himself with "pleasure, laughter, wine, foolishness, great works, and wealth accumulation." "Whatever [his] eyes desired [he] did not keep from them." He "hated life because all that is done under the sun is grievous and vanity." I know that most people read the last couple of verses of Ecclesiastes as Solomon's repentance and change of heart, but I can't bring myself to see it that way, knowing where he ends up in his latter days. I would encourage you to note from these few chapters that life not centered on God is "meaningless vanity and a chasing after the wind." Let us look at the hopelessness of Solomon as a reminder that every single advantage and pursuit in this world, not grounded in God, will leave one feeling hopeless.