The Byrds

The third chapter of Kohelet, became the lyrics of the famous song by the Byrds in 1965, “Turn, turn, turn.” It reflects the idea that “There is a season and a time for every purpose under Heaven.”

Rav Steinsaltz elaborated on this idea. The knowledge that everything is conducted in accordance with a plan, does not resolve the question of the purpose of man’s existence.

Even if one recognizes that all the events that transpire in this world, are arranged and directed from Above, he remains ignorant of G-d’s design for the world. He does not comprehend the meaning of all of the events that unfold before his eyes.

Nevertheless, certain conclusions do emerge from the poem of Ecclesiastes. One must be aware of his limitations and his place in relation to G-d. The world is in Hashem’s hands, and the person who focuses on conducting his life joyfully, and in the performance of good deeds, will be privileged to receive His gifts.

In addition, one must keep in mind, that although the ways of the world, might sometimes appear to be perversions of justice, ultimately Divine justice will be revealed.

I’m not sure if the Byrds had all of this in mind in their song, but the explanation of Rav Steinsaltz is very powerful.