What is the primary theme of Ecclesiastes?

The primary theme of Ecclesiastes revolves around the exploration of life’s meaning and the futility of human endeavors when viewed without a covenant relationship with God. The book reflects a tone of skepticism and cynicism towards the pursuits and achievements that people often chase, highlighting that these are ultimately meaningless without a spiritual foundation. Ecclesiastes presents the argument that without acknowledging God’s sovereignty and the covenant relationship established through faith, worldly gains and experiences are fleeting and devoid of lasting significance. This exploration leads to a deeper understanding of the human condition amidst life's uncertainties and the limitations of human wisdom.

While other themes such as practical wisdom and faithfulness are present within the text, they are not the overarching focus. The celebration of covenant and loyalty has merit, but the weight of Ecclesiastes lies more heavily on the critique of a life lived in separation from divine purpose, underscoring the inherent emptiness of such an existence. Therefore, the recognition of the chosen answer aligns well with the text's prevailing message.