Qoheleth as a Realist

Abstract On a three stage “ladder,” from humanism to scepticism to pessimism, Ecclesiastes has traditionally been regarded as the last of those three. Many recent studies, however, have challenged this assessment, replacing humanism with optimism and presenting a stark choice between the two extremes of optimism and pessimism. In this paper it is argued that a middle way can be found, using the language of “realism.” How to define “a realist” and what this means for understanding Qoheleth is explored. Examples of Qoheleth’s pragmatic advice, experiential starting point, and continual balancing of life’s options are aired, and key indicators of his realism are found. These are demonstrated first, in his use and placement of the three major poems in the book, second, in his choice of phrases around “knowledge,” and third, in his use of exemplifying stories that ground his more abstract musings in a concrete reality.