Abstract:
The whole text of Qoheleth 2 notes the disappointing effect of the misuse of power to gather
wealth for oneself to the detriment of many. In accord with the irony of Qoheleth 2:4-6, this article
investigates the appropriate role of governments in addressing problems related to the availability
and issues surrounding distribution of resources, especially water, as a matter of public justice.
Qoheleth 2:4-6 is contrasted with Ancient Near Eastern inscriptions in which kings rather boast
for the good they did for their people, for example, the provision of water. The unsatisfactory
feeling of Qoheleth discouraged the self-centred distribution of resources for personal gain.
