The Hebrew word often means more than a view of outward form and appearance; namely, keen insight, or perception. The derived noun means “vision,” that is, a revelation. Here it denotes the keen observations of Solomon, based on his study of the facts involved.

That is, human projects and activities, many of which prove to be without value or benefit.

 The word translated “vexation” may come from the root “to feed,” “to pasture.” “Spirit” is from the usual word for “wind.” Thus the expression might be rendered “a striving after wind” (RSV) or “a feeding on wind.” Compare Hosea 12:1, “Ephraim feedeth on wind, and followeth after the east wind.” However translated, this word picture stresses the unsatisfying character of much of human effort and study. Compare also Isa. 44:20, “He feedeth on ashes.”