Gift from god Quote by Tremper Longman III
““Everything that he had had was a gift from God, given to him during his life. He came into the world with nothing (naked). He knows that when he dies he can’t take it with him. That Yahweh has taken from him what Yahweh himself had given him is within Yahweh’s rights. Thus he does not rail against God, but rather he blesses his name. The same thought may be found in Eccles. 5:15, when the Teacher (Qohelet) observes, “As he left his mother’s womb, so he will return, going as he came—naked. And he will take nothing with him from his toil that he is able to bring with him into his possession.” This observation, however, leads Qohelet to complain, “This indeed is a sickening evil” (5:16), which provides a contrast with Job.[156]””
About This Quote
Source Book: Ecclesiastes (Biblical text) commentary by Tremper Longman III
The passage reflects on life's impermanence, urging acceptance of God's gifts and humility toward mortality.
In simple terms: Life is temporary; accept God's gifts and stay humble.
Key Takeaway
Live modestly and trust divine providence.
Themes
mortality
humility
faith
acceptance
Mood
contemplative
serene
Type
spiritual
philosophical
When to use this quote
- grief
- spiritual practice
- ethical living
- life planning
Key Concepts
theology
existentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing impermanence affect your daily choices?
- What responsibilities arise from accepting life's fleeting nature?
A Different Perspective
Focusing solely on divine will may overlook human responsibility to act.
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