The Vanity of Self-Indulgence

I (A)said in my heart, “Come now, I will test you with pleasure; enjoy yourself.” But behold, this also was vanity.[a] I (B)said of laughter, “It is mad,” and of pleasure, “What use is it?” I (C)searched with my heart how to cheer my body with wine—my heart still guiding me with wisdom—and how to lay hold on (D)folly, till I might see what was good for the children of man to do under heaven during the few days of their life.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. Ecclesiastes 2:1 The Hebrew term hebel can refer to a “vapor” or “mere breath”; also verses 11, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 26 (see note on 1:2)

Bible Gateway Recommends

ESV Seek and Find Bible, hardcover
ESV Seek and Find Bible, hardcover
Retail: $34.99
Our Price: $9.49
Save: $25.50 (73%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
ESV Study Bible, Black Genuine Leather
ESV Study Bible, Black Genuine Leather
Retail: $114.99
Our Price: $54.99
Save: $60.00 (52%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
ESV Value Compact Bible, TruTone Imitation Leather, Brown
ESV Value Compact Bible, TruTone Imitation Leather, Brown
Retail: $14.99
Our Price: $9.59
Save: $5.40 (36%)
3.5 of 5.0 stars
ESV Student Study Bible, Trutone, Green with Mosaic Cross Design
ESV Student Study Bible, Trutone, Green with Mosaic Cross Design
Retail: $44.99
Our Price: $19.99
Save: $25.00 (56%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars