This paper argues that Ecclesiastes criticizes eschatological and apocalyptic ideas. Further- more, it explores the seemingly problematic relation of Ecclesiastes’ theology regarding the priestly temple cult. A general overview on biblical wisdom tradition, apocalyptic thought and the priestly led temple cult is given to establish a background for the exegetical discussion and examination of two selected paragraphs. These are compared with other similar passages of the book to support the hypothesis that Qohelet’s dialogue with himself contains a polemic message against both the ideology of apocalyptical literature and the temple cult.