Biblical Answer

Step 1: Understanding the Problem of Meaninglessness

The problem of meaninglessness is a complex and age-old question that has puzzled philosophers, theologians, and everyday people for centuries. According to Ecclesiastes 1:23, "Everything is meaningless; what a man gets in this life, no matter how hard he works at it, is smoke. Even though a man burdens himself with wealth, with no one to inherit his property, his earnings will not bring him happiness, and this too is meaningless." This passage highlights the futility of seeking meaning in life without a higher purpose or significance.

Step 2: The Human Response to Meaninglessness

In response to the apparent meaninglessness of life, people often try to create their own meaning or pretend that life has meaning. However, this approach is ultimately inconsistent and unsustainable. As the passage suggests, "man cannot live consistently and happily knowing that life is meaningless; so in order to be happy he pretends that life has meaning." This attempt to create meaning in life is a natural human response, but it ultimately falls short of providing true significance and purpose.

Step 3: Finding Meaning in a Higher Purpose

In contrast, a life of faith in God provides a higher purpose and meaning that transcends the limitations of human existence. As the author of Ecclesiastes notes, "For in much wisdom is much vexation, and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow." (Ecclesiastes 1:18) However, this is not a negative message. Rather, it is a call to trust in God and find meaning in a life that is surrendered to Him. As the author of Ecclesiastes concludes, "The end of man is death, and his lifetime is but a breath." (Ecclesiastes 3:20) Yet, even in the face of death, a life of faith in God provides a sense of purpose and meaning that is not found in the fleeting and meaningless pursuits of this world.

The final answer is: There is no final answer to this question as it is a philosophical and theological inquiry. However, the answer provided above highlights the problem of meaninglessness, the human response to it, and the possibility of finding meaning in a higher purpose through faith in God.