outline of Ecclesiastes

1.  Introduction (1:1)

2.  Motto (1:2)

3.  Limitations of Work and Wisdom (1:3-3:8)

1. Cycles in Creation (1:3-11)
2. Futility of Work and Wisdom (1:12-18)
3. Ephemeral Rewards of Work and Wisdom (2:1-17)
4. Enigmas of Work and Wisdom (2:18-3:8)

4.  Work in Fear Before God Whose Work Endures (3:9-6:7)

1. God as Creator and Judge (3:9-21)
2. Contentment or Envy (3:22-4:16)
3. Sincere Commitment to God (5:1-7)
4. Dissatisfaction in Work (5:8-6:7)

5.  Wisdom in Humility Before a Judging God Whose Wisdom is Unfathomable (6:8-12:7)

1. The Futility of Contending with God (6:8-12)
2. What is Good for Man (7:1-18)
3. Wisdom's Power (7:19-8:8)
4. Unfulfilled Judgment (8:9-9:10)
5. Folly's Power (9:11-10:7)
6. Advice for Wise Living (10:8-12:7)

6.  Motto (12:8)

7.  Conclusion (12:9-14)