How does the writer of Ecclesiastes identify himself?

• A. Solomon
• B. The Chronicler
• C. Qoheleth 'preacher'
• D. The Prophet

Answer: (C)

The writer identifies himself with the title Qoheleth, which is usually translated as "the Preacher" or "the Teacher." This self-designation appears at the very opening line, "The words of Qoheleth, son of David, king in Jerusalem." So the voice you hear in Ecclesiastes is not named Solomon by saying “Solomon,” but rather speaks as Qoheleth—the one who teaches, ponders, and shares observations about life. The term signals a role rather than a personal name, setting up the book’s reflective, sermon-like tone as the author analyzes human endeavors and meaning. Some traditions later associate Qoheleth with Solomon, but the text itself presents the self-identification as Qoheleth, the Preacher.