What does Ecclesiastes teach about the vanity of life?

Ecclesiastes, particularly in the words of the preacher Solomon, articulates the futility of human endeavors when separated from a relationship with God. Solomon, who had access to immense power, wealth, and knowledge, concluded that without God, all toil and achievements are ultimately 'vanity and vexation of spirit'. He emphasized that worldly possessions and accomplishments are transient, stating that one cannot take anything with them after death. Therefore, he declared that nothing in this world compares to the eternal value found in knowing and enjoying God and living in accordance with His purposes.