Ecclesiastes 2:9

Modern

So I became great and surpassed all in Jerusalem who had preceded me; and my wisdom remained with me.

Traditional

So I was great, and increased more than all that were before me in Jerusalem: also my wisdom remained with me.

Literal

So I became great, and I added more than all who were before my face in Jerusalem. Also, my wisdom stood with me.

Latin

…et supergressus sum opibus omnes qui ante me fuerunt in Jerusalem: sapientia quoque perseveravit mecum.

Hebrew

English

So I became great and surpassed all in Jerusalem who had preceded me; and my wisdom remained with me.

I became great: Compare 1 Kings 10:23.

Solomon's wisdom helped him gain power and wealth (see 1 Kings 3:2–14; 4:20–34).

The Teacher says seeking pleasure for its own sake is empty. Even great achievements are like smoke.

The Teacher examines how wisdom, work, and pleasure relate to each other.

Theme notes and profiles

1 Chronicles 29:25
The LORD highly exalted Solomon in the sight of all Israel and bestowed on him royal majesty such as had not been bestowed on any king in Israel before him.
Ecclesiastes 1:16
I said to myself, “Behold, I have grown and increased in wisdom beyond all those before me who were over Jerusalem, and my mind has observed a wealth of wisdom and knowledge.”
1 Kings 10:23
So King Solomon surpassed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom.
2 Chronicles 9:22–23
So King Solomon surpassed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom.
1 Kings 3:12
…behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been another like you, nor will there ever be.
2 Chronicles 1:1
Now Solomon son of David established himself securely over his kingdom, and the LORD his God was with him and highly exalted him.
1 Kings 10:7
But I did not believe these things until I came and saw with my own eyes. Indeed, not even half was told to me. Your wisdom and prosperity have far exceeded the report I heard.

Jerusalem: The capital of Israel, a holy city for three religions