The words. Rashi says that, when this expression occurs at the beginning of a book, it shows that the book is meant for reproof, and he gives evidence from Deu_1:1 (Compare Ecc_32:15). Amo_1:1 (Compare Ecc_4:1). Jer_1:1 (Compare Ecc_30:6). David, 2Sa_23:1 (Compare Ecc_1:6).
the Preacher. This comes from Luther's version "Prediger"; but "Koheleth" does not include the idea of preaching. Some of its teaching is individual (Ecc_3:17); and succeeding appeals are in the second person.