Ecclesiastes 2:3–11

3 I explored with my mind the pull of winew on my body—my mind still guiding me with wisdom—and how to grasp folly,x until I could see what is good for people to do under heavenA during the few days of their lives.y

THE EMPTINESS OF POSSESSIONS

4 I increased my achievements. I built housesz and planted vineyardsaa for myself. 5 I made gardensab and parks for myself and planted every kind of fruit tree in them. 6 I constructed reservoirs for myself from which to irrigate a grove of flourishing trees.ac 7 I acquired male and female servants and had slaves who were born in my house.ad I also owned livestock—large herds and flocks—more than all who were before me in Jerusalem.ae 8 I also amassed silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and provinces.af I gathered male and female singers for myself,ag and many concubines, the delights of men.B,C 9 So I became great and surpassed all who were before me in Jerusalem;a my wisdom also remained with me. 10 All that my eyes desired, I did not deny them.b I did not refuse myself any pleasure, for I took pleasure in all my struggles. This was my reward for all my struggles.c 11 When I considered all that I had accomplishedD and what I had labored to achieve, I found everything to be futile and a pursuit of the wind.* d There was nothing to be gained under the sun.e