Hermann Spieckermann, «Suchen und Finden; Kohelets kritische Reflexionen», Vol. 79 (1998) 305-332
Seeking and finding is a theological concept which from the time of the exile is found in texts stamped by prophetic influence. It expresses impressively God's saving movement towards his scattered people and the return of the people to its God. Qohelet knew this theological heritage and reflected on it critically in the light of his own presuppositions. Thus he speaks of a seeking that is imposed on man, which is not rewarded by any finding. God makes the finding impossible, doubtless because he himself has (in vain?) become a seeker (cf. Qoh 3,10-15). On the other hand where Qohelet knows of a finding, what is found is a doubtful and depressing gift (cf. 7,23-29). The futility of seeking is reflected in what is found. That Qohelet can finally speak of finding already hints at its particular characteristic. It is finding as rejection of seeking and as affirmation of confidence in a world that is God's unfathomable work. It is a hope of finding that does not indeed bring knowledge but some good as a share to be shared (cf. 11,1-6).
Zeiten Suchen und Verlieren zu einer unsinnigen Ordnung geworden sind?
Gott sucht in Koh 3,15 den Pdrn. Hier wird das Verstehen schwer 28 wohl kaum gegen den Willen des Kohelet. Eine vergleichbare Aussage gibt es weder bei ihm noch im übrigen Alten Testament. Was es aber in der Weisheits- und Gebetstradition gibt, sind Zusage und Aufforderung an die Menschen, Gerechtigkeit (hqdc), Güte (dsx), Gutes (bw#&) und Friede (Mwl#$) zum Ziel des