3 I explored ways to make myself feel better by drinking wine. I also explored ways to do ⌊some⌋ foolish things. During all that time, wisdom continued to control my mind. I was able to determine whether this was good for mortals to do during their brief lives under heaven.
4 I accomplished some great things:I built houses for myself.I planted vineyards for myself.
5 I made gardens and parks for myself.I planted every kind of fruit tree in them.
6 I made pools to water the forest of growing trees.
7 I bought male and female slaves.In addition, slaves were born in my household.I owned more herds and flocksthan anyone in Jerusalem before me.
8 I also gathered silver and gold for myself.I gathered the treasures of kings and provinces.I provided myself with male and female singersand the pleasures men have with one concubine after another.
9 So I grew richer than anyone in Jerusalem before me. Yet, my wisdom remained with me.