The Cosmic Vanity of Wealth and Justice

Ecclesiastes 5:8 states, "If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not at the matter: for he that is higher than the highest regardeth; and there be higher than they." The art’s towering buildings, symbolizing institutions of power, are shadowed by the grand cosmic expanse above them, representing the divine authority that reigns above all earthly powers. The figure stands in the middle, witnessing the oppressive systems of human justice and wealth but looking upward, aware that true justice belongs to the higher, unseen forces — the universe, God, and divine order.  

In the background, a faint image of a spectral figure appears, symbolizing that there is always something higher than earthly rulers, as Ecclesiastes warns. The swirling energies in the sky indicate that there is an invisible system of justice and balance that the human eye cannot perceive, urging the viewer to trust in the wisdom of higher powers, even when earthly justice seems twisted and corrupt.  

Ecclesiastes 5:9 tells us, "Moreover the profit of the earth is for all: the king himself is served by the field." In the artwork, this message is depicted by the vastness of the city and the contrasting cosmic order above. The art serves as a reminder that all wealth, no matter how grand or controlled by kings and rulers, ultimately comes from the earth, which belongs to everyone. The art contrasts the city, a symbol of civilization’s desire to control and accumulate, with the sprawling cosmic realm, representing the natural world that sustains us all. The reminder here is that wealth, no matter how much is hoarded, comes from a source greater than humanity's control.  

Ecclesiastes 5:10 speaks directly to the folly of greed: "He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity." In the artwork, the figure stands at the edge of the city, symbolizing humanity’s endless chase for more wealth, yet beyond the city is an entire universe — far more vast and meaningful than the material goods sought within the city’s confines. The glowing planet in the background serves as a metaphor for the endless, unattainable satisfaction that wealth promises. The celestial light draws the viewer’s attention away from the city and toward the heavens, reminding us that wealth can never truly satisfy our deepest needs, and that seeking abundance for its own sake is indeed vanity.  

Finally, Ecclesiastes 5:11 warns, "When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes?" The towering structures in the city symbolize the accumulation of wealth, yet they are dark and lifeless, casting shadows over the figure. Despite all the wealth and goods stored within the city’s walls, there is little true satisfaction for those who hoard it. The luminous galaxy in the background represents what is truly valuable — a world beyond materialism, one that cannot be hoarded but must be experienced.  

These verses remind us that the pursuit of wealth and power is ultimately hollow if disconnected from the higher principles of justice, humility, and shared prosperity. In a world driven by materialism and consumerism, Ecclesiastes 5:8-11 serves as a reminder that no matter how much wealth one accumulates, it will never truly satisfy the human soul. The artwork visually captures this existential struggle, illustrating how wealth and earthly power pale in comparison to the infinite and cosmic forces that govern life.  

In real life, these verses teach us to seek fulfillment not in material possessions or the accumulation of wealth but in understanding the broader, divine forces at work in the universe. They remind us that justice, balance, and the earth’s resources belong to all people, not just to those in power. This message encourages individuals to be mindful of the vanity inherent in the pursuit of wealth and to focus instead on the spiritual and ethical dimensions of life that provide lasting peace and satisfaction. The art invites viewers to reflect on their place in the grand, cosmic order and to consider what truly brings meaning and justice to their lives.