Ecclesiastes 5:10
Verse
Context
The Futility of Wealth
9The produce of the earth is taken by all; the king himself profits from the fields.10He who loves money is never satisfied by money, and he who loves wealth is never satisfied by income. This too is futile.11When good things increase, so do those who consume them; what then is the profit to the owner, except to behold them with his eyes?
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
"He who loveth silver is not satisfied with silver; and he whose love cleaveth to abundance, hath nothing of it: also this is vain." The transition in this series of proverbs is not unmediated; for the injustice which, according to Ecc 5:7, prevails in the state as it now is becomes subservient to covetousness, in the very nature of which there lies insatiableness: semper avarus eget, hunc nulla pecunia replet. That the author speaks of the "sacra fames argenti" (not auri) arises from this, that not זהב, but כסף, is the specific word for coin. (Note: A Jewish fancy supposes that כסף is chosen because it consists of letters rising in value (20, 60, 80); while, on the contrary, זהב consists of letters decreasing in value (7, 5, 2).) Mendelssohn-Friedlnder also explains: "He who loveth silver is not satisfied with silver," i.e., it does not make him full; that might perhaps be linguistically possible (cf. e.g., Pro 12:11), although the author would in that case probably have written the words מן־הכּסף, after Ecc 6:3; but "to be not full of money" is, after Ecc 1:8, and especially Ecc 4:8, Hab 2:5, cf. Pro 27:20 = never to have enough of money, but always to desire more. That which follows, Ecc 5:9, is, according to Hitz., a question: And who hath joy in abundance, which bringeth nothing in? But such questions, with the answer to be supplied, are not in Koheleth's style; and what would then be understood by capital without interest? Others, as Zφckler, supply ישׂבּע: and he that loveth abundance of possessions (is) not (full) of income; but that which is gained by these hard ellipses is only a tautology. With right, the Targ., Syr., Jerome, the Venet., and Luther take lo tevuah as the answer or conclusion; and who clings to abundance of possessions with his love? - he has no fruit thereof; or, with a weakening of the interrog. pronoun into the relative (as at Ecc 1:9; cf. under Psa 34:13): he who ... clings has nothing of it. Hamon signifies a tumult, a noisy multitude, particularly of earthly goods, as at Psa 37:16; Ch1 29:16; Isa 60:5. The connection of אהב with ב, occurring only here, follows the analogy of חפץ בּ and the like. The conclusion is synon. with levilti ho'il; e.g., Isa 44:10; Jer 7:8. All the Codd. read לא; לו in this sense would be meaningless. (Note: In Maccoth 10a, לו is read three times in succession; the Midrash Wajikra, c. 22, reads לא, and thus it is always found without Kerı̂ and without variation.) The designation of advantage by tevuah, the farmer enjoys the fruit of his labour; but he who hangs his heart on the continual tumult, noise, pomp of more numerous and greater possessions is possible, to him all real profit - i.e., all pleasant, peaceful enjoyment - is lost. With the increase of the possessions there is an increase also of unrest, and the possessor has in reality nothing but the sight of them.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Not only will God punish at last, but meanwhile the oppressive gainers of "silver" find no solid "satisfaction" in it. shall not be satisfied--so the oppressor "eateth his own flesh" (see on Ecc 4:1 and Ecc 4:5). with increase--is not satisfied with the gain that he makes.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver,.... The tillage of the earth is necessary, a very laudable and useful employment, and men do well to busy themselves in it; without this, neither the common people nor the greatest personages can be supplied with the necessaries of life; but then an immoderate love of money is criminal, which is here meant by loving silver, one kind of money, which when loved beyond measure is the root of all evil; and besides, when a man has got ever so much of it, he is not satisfied, he still wants more, like the horse leech at the vein cries Give, give; or he cannot eat silver, so Jarchi; or be "fed with money", as Mr. Broughton renders it; and herein the fruits of the earth, for which the husbandman labours, have the preference to silver; for these he can eat, and be filled and satisfied with them, but he cannot eat his bags of gold and silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase; that is, he that coveteth a great deal of this world's things shall not be satisfied with the increase of them, let that be what it will; or, he shall have "no increase" (f), be ever the better for his abundance, or enjoy the comfort and benefit of it: or, "he that loveth abundance from whence there is no increase" (g); that loves to have a multitude of people about him, as manservants and maidservants; a large equipage, as Aben Ezra suggests, which are of very little use and service, or none at all; this is also vanity: the immoderate love of money, coveting large estates and possessions, and to have a train of servants. Jarchi allegorically interprets silver and abundance, of the commands, and the multitude of them. (f) "non erit proventus illi", Vatablus, Mercerus, Gejerus; "nullum fructum percipit", Tigurine version. (g) "Qui amat copiam, sc. multitudinem ex qua non est sperandus profectus", Schmidt, so Gussetius.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:10 Because we are created as spiritual and not just physical beings, possessions and wealth can never completely satisfy us.
Ecclesiastes 5:10
The Futility of Wealth
9The produce of the earth is taken by all; the king himself profits from the fields.10He who loves money is never satisfied by money, and he who loves wealth is never satisfied by income. This too is futile.11When good things increase, so do those who consume them; what then is the profit to the owner, except to behold them with his eyes?
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
"Rebuke to Prosperity Preachers"
By Leonard Ravenhill5.1K00:20PRO 11:28ECC 5:10MAT 6:24MAT 19:24MRK 10:25LUK 6:24LUK 12:151TI 6:10JAS 5:1This sermon challenges the notion of prosperity gospel by questioning why God rebukes those who claim to be rich and increased with goods. It delves into the discrepancy between the message of prosperity preached by some and the biblical rebuke towards those who boast in material wealth, highlighting the importance of aligning our beliefs with the true teachings of the Bible.
(Basics) 45. God and Money Are Opposites
By Zac Poonen3.4K13:01PRO 22:7ECC 5:10MAT 6:24MAT 23:3LUK 16:131TI 6:10HEB 13:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making a choice between serving God or serving money. He compares money to fire, stating that while it can be a useful servant, it can also be a destructive master if not handled carefully. The speaker encourages listeners to be cautious and responsible in their handling of money, as it can have a significant impact on their lives. He uses Jesus as an example, highlighting that Jesus worked as a carpenter and earned a living, but was not attached to material possessions.
Pure Life Ministries - 2015 Annual Conference "He Who Endures to the End Shall Be saved."
By Steve Gallagher1.0K02:12PRO 11:3ECC 5:10MAT 6:19LUK 16:10This sermon addresses the themes of deception, corruption, and the consequences of dishonesty. It emphasizes the erosion of integrity, the impact of corporate scandals on the global economy, and the need for accountability. The sermon also touches on the fleeting nature of material possessions and the importance of finding true fulfillment beyond worldly pursuits.
More Suitable to Swine!
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual FulfillmentThe Immortal SoulPSA 42:1ECC 5:10MAT 5:6LUK 12:18JHN 6:35Thomas Brooks emphasizes that earthly possessions cannot satisfy the immortal soul, likening those who seek fulfillment in material wealth to swine. He references the folly of a man who believed he could find contentment in earthly pleasures, highlighting that true satisfaction can only be found in a relationship with God. Brooks argues that the soul's spiritual nature makes it incapable of being fulfilled by anything less than divine communion, asserting that no amount of worldly riches can fill the void that only God can satisfy.
Of the Heinousness of Covetousness
By William Gouge0ECC 5:10William Gouge preaches about the sin of covetousness, highlighting its deceiving nature that blinds individuals to true happiness, its insatiable and galling characteristics that bring continual vexation and sorrow, its ensnaring quality that leads people away from God, and its role as a mother sin that spawns various other evils. He emphasizes how covetousness is a growing and devouring sin that chokes out the Word of God and brings curses from both man and God, ultimately leading to exclusion from the kingdom of God.
I Bequeath My Pastor's Soul to the Devil
By Thomas Brooks0CovetousnessIdolatryECC 5:10MAT 6:24MRK 8:36LUK 12:15COL 3:51TI 6:9HEB 13:5JAS 4:41JN 4:5Thomas Brooks delivers a powerful sermon on the dangers of covetousness, labeling it as explicit idolatry and a pervasive sin that has infected all levels of society. He emphasizes that a covetous person places their love and trust in worldly riches, neglecting God and spiritual matters, which ultimately leads to ruin. Brooks illustrates this with a poignant story of a greedy banker who, on his deathbed, bequeaths his soul and those of others to the devil due to their failure to recognize the spiritual dangers of their worldly pursuits. The sermon serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of prioritizing material wealth over spiritual well-being.
Tenth River -- Covetousness
By Martin Knapp0EXO 20:17JOS 7:21PRO 28:22ECC 5:10MAL 3:9EPH 5:5COL 3:51TI 6:9Martin Knapp delivers a powerful sermon on the sin of covetousness, emphasizing how it is an inordinate desire to possess what belongs to others, leading to various destructive behaviors and consequences. Through a conversation with a young boy named Willie, the sermon explores biblical examples of coveting, such as Achan, Judas, Ananias, and Sapphira, highlighting the severe punishments they faced. The sermon warns against the dangers of covetousness, describing it as a popular sin that robs God of His rights and leads to idolatry and selfishness. It stresses the importance of shunning covetousness and embracing God's salvation and liberality instead.
Fool Away Their Souls
By Thomas Brooks0Prioritizing Spiritual WealthEternal SalvationECC 5:10MAT 6:19MAT 19:21MRK 8:36LUK 12:152CO 4:18PHP 3:191TI 6:17HEB 12:1JAS 4:14Thomas Brooks emphasizes the critical choice presented by Christ to the young man in the Gospel, who was offered eternal treasures in exchange for his earthly possessions. Despite the promise of heavenly rewards, the young man chose to prioritize his temporary wealth, ultimately missing out on salvation. Brooks warns that many people today similarly squander their time and opportunities for eternal life, choosing fleeting pleasures over lasting fulfillment. The sermon serves as a call to recognize the value of spiritual over material wealth and to seize the opportunities for salvation before they slip away.
The Desire for More
By Thomas Reade0ECC 5:10ISA 2:7HAB 3:17MAT 6:19MRK 10:24PHP 4:111TI 6:61TI 6:10HEB 13:5JAS 4:3Thomas Reade preaches about the dangers of covetousness and the insatiable desire for more, warning that the pursuit of wealth can lead to destruction and idolatry. He emphasizes the importance of godliness with contentment as a remedy for covetousness, citing Paul's teachings on finding joy and strength in Christ regardless of circumstances. Reade highlights the contrast between worldly riches and spiritual blessings, urging believers to seek heavenly treasures and trust in God's provision. He cautions against the love of money, drawing examples from Scripture of those who fell into sin due to their desire for more, and encourages a holy desire for spiritual growth and dependence on God.
Success and Money
By Charles Stanley0PRO 23:4ECC 5:10MAT 6:24LUK 12:131TI 6:10Charles Stanley preaches about the deception of defining success by material wealth, highlighting the idolatrous attitude many have towards money and the warning against making riches the center of our lives. He emphasizes that wealth is a gift from God to provide for others and meet our needs, not to be worshiped. The sermon urges listeners to seek God's view of success and to protect themselves from the temptations that come with pursuing wealth.
A Common Yet Subtle Sin
By Samuel Logan Brengle0CovetousnessSpiritual VigilanceEXO 20:17PRO 28:22ECC 5:10MAT 6:24LUK 12:15COL 3:51TI 6:10HEB 13:5JAS 4:21JN 2:15Samuel Logan Brengle warns against the subtle yet deadly sin of covetousness, which has led to the downfall of many, including kings, apostles, and ordinary people. He illustrates how this sin is often overlooked, yet it has catastrophic consequences, as seen in biblical examples like Lot, Achan, and Judas. Brengle emphasizes that covetousness is not just a personal failing but a societal issue that can lead to the collapse of civilizations. He urges believers to combat this sin through self-denial, prayer, and a focus on Christ, reminding them that true contentment comes from godliness. The sermon serves as a call to vigilance against this pervasive sin that can ensnare anyone, regardless of their status or faith.
A Dissuasive From Ambition.
By Edward Payson0PRO 23:4ECC 5:10JER 45:5MAT 6:19MRK 8:36PHP 4:111TI 6:10JAS 4:31JN 2:15Edward Payson preaches about the dangers of seeking great things for oneself in this world, emphasizing the sinful nature of covetousness, ambition, and self-gratification. He highlights the need to align our desires with God's will, focusing on what is necessary for our duty, preparing for eternity, and seeking the favor of God. Payson warns that seeking worldly possessions leads to disappointment, sorrow, and distractions from our spiritual growth and responsibilities. He urges listeners to prioritize serving God, promoting the salvation of others, and finding contentment in God's provisions rather than pursuing earthly treasures.
On the Danger of Increasing Riches
By John Wesley0StewardshipWealthPSA 62:10PRO 11:24ECC 5:10MAT 6:19MAT 19:24LUK 12:152CO 9:71TI 6:9JAS 5:11JN 2:15John Wesley warns about the spiritual dangers associated with increasing wealth, emphasizing that riches can lead to a heart that is set on material possessions rather than on God. He explains that true riches are not merely about monetary wealth but about the ability to do good and help others. Wesley urges individuals to examine their hearts and ensure that their increasing wealth does not lead to covetousness or a false sense of security. He encourages generosity and warns against hoarding wealth, reminding listeners that they are stewards of God's gifts. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a life of giving and serving, rather than one focused on accumulating wealth.
A Hound, a Hawk, a Horse, a Harlot
By Thomas Brooks0Value of GraceWorldly vs. Spiritual PrioritiesPRO 11:28ECC 5:10MAT 6:21MAT 16:26LUK 12:15PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 6:10JAS 4:41JN 2:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the danger of valuing worldly possessions and pleasures over the grace of God. He illustrates how many people prioritize their lusts, relationships, honors, and material wealth above their spiritual well-being. The sermon serves as a stark reminder that true fulfillment comes from valuing grace over transient earthly delights. Brooks calls for self-examination regarding what we truly cherish in our lives. Ultimately, he urges listeners to reassess their priorities and seek a deeper relationship with God.
Money Is Not Truth
By A.W. Tozer0MaterialismPursuit of TruthPSA 119:160PRO 23:4ECC 5:10MAT 6:24MAT 16:26LUK 12:15JHN 8:32JHN 14:62CO 4:181TI 6:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes that society often prioritizes financial success and social status over the pursuit of truth, with many young people viewing education merely as a means to enhance their earning potential. He laments that the desire for truth is rare, as it demands sacrifice and commitment, exemplified by Jesus, who identified Himself as the Truth and faced the Cross. Tozer warns that the ease with which money can buy worldly desires is a grave indictment of our values, suggesting that true seekers of truth are few and far between. He calls for a deeper understanding of truth's significance, which transcends material wealth and status.
(Amazing Facts) 5. Amazing Facts About Addiction and Frustration
By Zac Poonen0AddictionTrue FulfillmentECC 5:10MAT 6:19Zac Poonen addresses the futility of pursuing pleasure, fame, wealth, and power, emphasizing the law of diminishing returns that leads to addiction and frustration. He illustrates how initial satisfaction from these pursuits fades, requiring greater indulgence to achieve the same pleasure, ultimately resulting in emptiness and despair. Poonen highlights that true fulfillment can only be found in God, as human hearts are designed with a spiritual vacuum that worldly pursuits cannot fill. He stresses the importance of cleansing our hearts from sin through Christ to experience lasting satisfaction and peace. The sermon calls for acknowledging Jesus as Lord over every aspect of life to overcome inner unrest.
Yellow and White Guts and Garbage
By Thomas Brooks0Wealth vs. SpiritualityThe Dangers of MaterialismPRO 11:28ECC 5:10MAT 6:24MAT 19:24MRK 8:36LUK 16:131TI 6:9HEB 13:5JAS 5:11JN 2:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the futility of serving wealth over God, illustrating that riches, described as 'yellow and white guts and garbage,' ultimately lead to spiritual ruin rather than fulfillment. He warns that the pursuit of material wealth burdens individuals like a horse laden with treasure, only to face emptiness and guilt at death. Brooks highlights the folly of accumulating worldly treasures, which cannot satisfy the heart and lead to eternal consequences. He cites 1 Timothy 6:9-10 to reinforce that the love of money can lead to temptation and destruction, urging listeners to prioritize their spiritual well-being over material gain.
Your Only Hell
By Thomas Brooks0ContentmentEternal PerspectivePSA 16:11ECC 5:10MAT 6:19JHN 10:10ROM 8:182CO 4:17PHP 4:111TI 6:6JAS 1:21PE 5:10Thomas Brooks emphasizes that the trials and tribulations we face in this life are merely temporary and serve as preparation for our future glory. He encourages believers to find contentment amidst their sufferings, reminding them that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with God rather than worldly possessions. Brooks asserts that having a deep connection with God is far more valuable than material wealth, as only God can truly satisfy the soul.
The Sum and Forecast and Great Conclusion. 11:17-12:14
By W.J. Erdman0ECC 1:2ECC 2:11ECC 3:1ECC 5:10ECC 7:2ECC 11:9ECC 12:1ECC 12:13In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the Preacher reflects on the vanity of life under the sun, emphasizing the fleeting nature of earthly pursuits and the ultimate conclusion that all is vanity. Despite the search for meaning and fulfillment, the Preacher warns of the emptiness of life without fearing God and keeping His commandments in anticipation of judgment. The sermon delves into the contrast between the joys of youth and the sorrows of old age, highlighting the inevitability of darkness and the transience of earthly pleasures.
Motives to Love Jesus
By Thomas Doolittle02KI 5:13PRO 23:5ECC 5:10ECC 5:15MAT 16:26LUK 19:10JHN 1:14COL 2:9HEB 7:251JN 1:7Thomas Doolittle preaches about the unparalleled excellence, suitability, satisfaction, durability, and necessity of loving Jesus above all else. He emphasizes how Jesus is the most special, profitable, delightful, sure, and deserving object of love, having suffered, done, given, purchased, promised, and prepared everything for believers. Doolittle challenges listeners to consider the wisdom, nobility, endurance, and universality of loving Jesus, highlighting how love for Him helps resist temptations, persevere in the Christian race, and find ultimate fulfillment and joy.
That Golden Devil
By Thomas Brooks0CovetousnessIdolatryPRO 11:28ECC 5:10MAT 6:24MRK 8:36LUK 12:15COL 3:51TI 6:91TI 6:17HEB 13:5JAS 4:3Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of covetousness, describing it as a 'golden devil' that can lead to spiritual ruin, much like Judas Iscariot, who despite his outwardly righteous life, was ultimately destroyed by his greed. He emphasizes that even the most seemingly righteous actions can be rendered meaningless if one harbors the sin of covetousness in their heart. Brooks highlights the destructive nature of the love of money, which can lead individuals away from their faith and into a life of grief and temptation.
Soul-Satisfying
By Thomas Brooks0Soul SatisfactionRiches In ChristPSA 107:9ECC 5:10ISA 55:1MAT 5:6JHN 6:35ROM 8:322CO 8:9PHP 4:19COL 2:31TI 6:17Thomas Brooks emphasizes that the riches found in Christ are truly soul-satisfying, far surpassing any material wealth or earthly possessions. He illustrates that just as a pardon satisfies a condemned man or bread satisfies the hungry, the grace and goodness of Christ fulfill the deepest longings of the soul. Brooks warns against the futility of seeking satisfaction in silver and abundance, as these cannot meet our spiritual needs. Ultimately, a soul enriched by Christ declares sufficiency in Him, regardless of temporal circumstances.
Oramuzes' Happiness Egg
By Thomas Brooks0ContentmentThe Pursuit of HappinessECC 5:10MAT 6:19Thomas Brooks emphasizes that true satisfaction cannot be found in wealth or material possessions, as illustrated by Ecclesiastes 5:10. He argues that no amount of money can fulfill the deeper needs of the soul, which can only be satisfied by an infinite God. Brooks warns against the futility of pursuing worldly riches, comparing it to Oramuzes' happiness egg, which, when broken, revealed only emptiness. He concludes that the pursuit of earthly things leads to vanity and vexation, and true contentment lies in spiritual fulfillment rather than material gain.
Vexing, Defiling, Dividing, Ruining
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual RuinThe Dangers of WealthPRO 11:28ECC 5:10MAT 6:24LUK 12:151TI 6:10JAS 5:1Thomas Brooks emphasizes the dangers of earthly riches, warning that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. He illustrates how the pursuit of wealth can lead to spiritual ruin, causing individuals to stray from their faith and suffer deep sorrows. Brooks describes riches as thorns that inflict pain on the mind and heart, blinding, hardening, and perverting the soul. He cautions that while poverty may slay thousands, the allure of wealth has led to the downfall of many more. Ultimately, he calls for a reevaluation of our relationship with money and the impact it has on our spiritual lives.
The Land of Cabul
By Thomas Brooks0Heavenly InheritanceThe Futility of Earthly Wealth1KI 9:12PRO 23:4ECC 5:10MAT 6:19LUK 12:15COL 3:21TI 6:7HEB 13:14JAS 5:11PE 1:4Thomas Brooks emphasizes the futility of earthly inheritances, illustrating how they are subject to corruption and loss, much like the worthless land of Cabul given by Solomon. He warns that reliance on material wealth leads to impure desires and false confidence, ultimately resulting in spiritual decay. In contrast, Brooks highlights the value of an incorruptible inheritance found in Christ, which remains untouched by earthly troubles and offers true fulfillment. He encourages believers to seek their hope and security in heavenly treasures rather than transient earthly possessions.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
"He who loveth silver is not satisfied with silver; and he whose love cleaveth to abundance, hath nothing of it: also this is vain." The transition in this series of proverbs is not unmediated; for the injustice which, according to Ecc 5:7, prevails in the state as it now is becomes subservient to covetousness, in the very nature of which there lies insatiableness: semper avarus eget, hunc nulla pecunia replet. That the author speaks of the "sacra fames argenti" (not auri) arises from this, that not זהב, but כסף, is the specific word for coin. (Note: A Jewish fancy supposes that כסף is chosen because it consists of letters rising in value (20, 60, 80); while, on the contrary, זהב consists of letters decreasing in value (7, 5, 2).) Mendelssohn-Friedlnder also explains: "He who loveth silver is not satisfied with silver," i.e., it does not make him full; that might perhaps be linguistically possible (cf. e.g., Pro 12:11), although the author would in that case probably have written the words מן־הכּסף, after Ecc 6:3; but "to be not full of money" is, after Ecc 1:8, and especially Ecc 4:8, Hab 2:5, cf. Pro 27:20 = never to have enough of money, but always to desire more. That which follows, Ecc 5:9, is, according to Hitz., a question: And who hath joy in abundance, which bringeth nothing in? But such questions, with the answer to be supplied, are not in Koheleth's style; and what would then be understood by capital without interest? Others, as Zφckler, supply ישׂבּע: and he that loveth abundance of possessions (is) not (full) of income; but that which is gained by these hard ellipses is only a tautology. With right, the Targ., Syr., Jerome, the Venet., and Luther take lo tevuah as the answer or conclusion; and who clings to abundance of possessions with his love? - he has no fruit thereof; or, with a weakening of the interrog. pronoun into the relative (as at Ecc 1:9; cf. under Psa 34:13): he who ... clings has nothing of it. Hamon signifies a tumult, a noisy multitude, particularly of earthly goods, as at Psa 37:16; Ch1 29:16; Isa 60:5. The connection of אהב with ב, occurring only here, follows the analogy of חפץ בּ and the like. The conclusion is synon. with levilti ho'il; e.g., Isa 44:10; Jer 7:8. All the Codd. read לא; לו in this sense would be meaningless. (Note: In Maccoth 10a, לו is read three times in succession; the Midrash Wajikra, c. 22, reads לא, and thus it is always found without Kerı̂ and without variation.) The designation of advantage by tevuah, the farmer enjoys the fruit of his labour; but he who hangs his heart on the continual tumult, noise, pomp of more numerous and greater possessions is possible, to him all real profit - i.e., all pleasant, peaceful enjoyment - is lost. With the increase of the possessions there is an increase also of unrest, and the possessor has in reality nothing but the sight of them.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Not only will God punish at last, but meanwhile the oppressive gainers of "silver" find no solid "satisfaction" in it. shall not be satisfied--so the oppressor "eateth his own flesh" (see on Ecc 4:1 and Ecc 4:5). with increase--is not satisfied with the gain that he makes.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver,.... The tillage of the earth is necessary, a very laudable and useful employment, and men do well to busy themselves in it; without this, neither the common people nor the greatest personages can be supplied with the necessaries of life; but then an immoderate love of money is criminal, which is here meant by loving silver, one kind of money, which when loved beyond measure is the root of all evil; and besides, when a man has got ever so much of it, he is not satisfied, he still wants more, like the horse leech at the vein cries Give, give; or he cannot eat silver, so Jarchi; or be "fed with money", as Mr. Broughton renders it; and herein the fruits of the earth, for which the husbandman labours, have the preference to silver; for these he can eat, and be filled and satisfied with them, but he cannot eat his bags of gold and silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase; that is, he that coveteth a great deal of this world's things shall not be satisfied with the increase of them, let that be what it will; or, he shall have "no increase" (f), be ever the better for his abundance, or enjoy the comfort and benefit of it: or, "he that loveth abundance from whence there is no increase" (g); that loves to have a multitude of people about him, as manservants and maidservants; a large equipage, as Aben Ezra suggests, which are of very little use and service, or none at all; this is also vanity: the immoderate love of money, coveting large estates and possessions, and to have a train of servants. Jarchi allegorically interprets silver and abundance, of the commands, and the multitude of them. (f) "non erit proventus illi", Vatablus, Mercerus, Gejerus; "nullum fructum percipit", Tigurine version. (g) "Qui amat copiam, sc. multitudinem ex qua non est sperandus profectus", Schmidt, so Gussetius.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:10 Because we are created as spiritual and not just physical beings, possessions and wealth can never completely satisfy us.