⁷ then the dust [out of which God made man’s body] will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it. ⁸ “Vanity of vanities,” says the Preacher. “All [that is done without God’s guidance] is vanity (futility).”^(A)

Purpose of the Preacher

⁹ Furthermore, because the Preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; and he pondered and searched out and arranged many proverbs.