Finally, Qohelet discusses youth and old age with the characteristic tone of ancient teachers giving advice to a student. However, the expression “my son,” typical of these writings, is missing. The theme of youth (11:7-10) is presented positively, encouraging young people to enjoy themselves and be happy. In a way, it diverges from traditional wisdom, although it is not far from it in the way it describes enjoying life (cf. Sir 30:21-23). He describes old age (12:1-7) negatively, as the end of life and happiness. Various natural elements are used as metaphors to develop this theme—some might even see verses 3 onward as an allegory of the parts of the human body.
In 12:8, the teaching of the wise Qohelet concludes with the impact of the final instruction, which gives it the feel of a testament—a literary genre that was very popular between the 2nd century B.C. and the 2nd century A.D.—and thus a special significance. The book wraps up as it began, but it reflects on the journey taken: it has revealed human beings’ struggles and their greatness in the most important areas of their lives.
We must interpret the wise man’s final message just as we did at the beginning when we read the book: for Ecclesiastes, youth symbolizes life, while old age symbolizes death. Where should today’s believer assess things, people, and the different stages of life from?