Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic View Ecclesiastes

The Book of Ecclesiastes is an Old Testament book filled with wisdom and lessons applicable to modern society. Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic's, or Gnostic's being of the first few centuries of Christianity, view Ecclesiastes from a unique perspective that emphasizes the need for a deep understanding of the Bible and its true meaning. In looking at Ecclesiastes, Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic's believe that an individual should focus on living a “life of piety” rather than seeking out physical or material possessions.

The overall message in Ecclesiastes is that life on Earth is fleeting and physical rewards are insignificant in the long run. Verse 2 of Ecclesiastes states that “All is vanity” as a warning against chasing after material wealth and suggesting that physical possessions are temporary. This is reiterated in verse 8 which states that “all is vanity,and vexation of spirit”. To Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic's, this emphasizes the need to turn away from the material and to live a life of holiness.

In verse 7 of Ecclesiastes, it says “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.” This is often interpreted as a call for human fellowship, but Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic's view this as not necessarily in a physical sense, but as a reminder of the spiritual rewards to be gained from living a life of faith. By recognizing this as a reminder of spiritual rewards and not solely physical riches, Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic's encourage people to look beyond physical possessions towards a deeper spiritual understanding.

Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic's see Ecclesiastes as reinforcing the importance of spiritual fulfillment and that physical pleasure should not be a primary focus. Verses 11 and 12 of Ecclesiastes both state that “The travail of the foolish wearieth every one of them because he knoweth not how to go to the city.” This is seen by Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic's as an allegory for an individual who is focused on the wrong pursuits in life and not turning towards spiritual fulfillment. This is seen as a reminder to be mindful of one’s actions and choose to live a life of piety by focusing on seeking spiritual rewards rather than material ones.

The book of Ecclesiastes generally focuses on crucial questions of mortality and the meaning of life. Within this context it provides vital spiritual instruction on how to lead a life of faith and holiness, and how to understand and interact with the spiritual realm. In its original context, the message of Ecclesiastes was meant to challenge the Israelite nation that was in danger of straying from the God of its fathers and covenant. According to Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic thought, the same message is applicable in modern times, as the world is commanded to pursue the same construct of holiness and faith found in the book.

The Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic view of Ecclesiastes sees the book as a bible verse that speaks to the spiritual truth of both physical and spiritual life. The book contains a number of spiritual metaphors representing both material and spiritual life, with the latter providing spiritual truth that can guide the reader in their own life. The contrast between physical and spiritual is further emphasized in Ecclesiastes, as the material is constantly contrasted to the spiritual and nothing in the physical realm is permanent or eternal.

Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic thought encourages its adherents to read the entire book of Ecclesiastes in its original context, meditate on its preferred meaning and use it as a guide for their life. The book is seen as a vital part of attaining the knowledge and understanding of holiness and spiritual faith and as a source of divinely-inspired wisdom.

Specifically, the Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic view of Ecclesiastes stresses the importance of glorifying a divine and eternal God who is intimately involved in the lives of humans. This view emphasizes the need to live a life that is purposed with respect to the divine, seeking to promote the spiritual truth and mystery of the Christian faith. The book speaks of the beauty of life, of the significance of joy in the presence of divine, of the pleasure and sorrow of the human experience and the need to seek divine guidance and blessing in the midst of trials and tribulations.

Ultimately, Primitive Pentecostal Gnostics believe that by reading the book, seeking to understand and live by its teachings and being open to the experience of divine within, one can come closer to the eternal truth that lies beyond physical reality. The book of Ecclesiastes unveils the spiritual core of holiness and faith that can be attained through repentance, spiritual knowledge, and a commitment to living a life of love and obedience to God.

In summary, Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic's view the Book of Ecclesiastes as a reminder to focus on a life of spiritual fulfillment rather than one of physical pleasure. By looking to the Biblical teachings in Ecclesiastes, Primitive Pentecostal Gnostics are reminded that physical objects are fleeting, and that seeking rewards and fulfillment in spiritual understanding will lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.