Talmud this Shabbat: Kohelet and You

The thesis of the Book of Kohelet is short and brutal:

Utter futility!—said Kohelet
Utter futility! All is futile!
What real value is there for a man
In all the gains he makes under the sun?
(1:2-3)

Why is Kohelet in the Bible at all? Feels a bit dark for a book that, on balance, posits a loving God in control of our universe.

Why do we read Kohelet on Sukkot? How does its dark message connect with Sukkot as z’man simchateinu, our season of joy?

Where, if at all, is there uplift? What does the book of Kohelet say to you as you lead your life in this new year?

See you tomorrow!

Shabbat shalom,
Wes