I was determined to learn the difference between knowledge and foolishness, wisdom and madness. But I found out that I might as well be chasing the wind.

But I devoted myself to knowledge and study; I was determined to find wisdom and the answers to my questions, and to learn how wicked and foolish stupidity is.

I saw all this when I thought about the things that are done in this world, a world where some people have power and others have to suffer under them.

Whenever I tried to become wise and learn what goes on in the world, I realized that you could stay awake night and day

and never be able to understand what God is doing. However hard you try, you will never find out. The wise may claim to know, but they don't.

How wonderful are the things the LORD does! All who are delighted with them want to understand them.

Listen to what is wise and try to understand it.

Look for it as hard as you would for silver or some hidden treasure.

Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do. Whatever else you get, get insight.

People who do not get along with others are interested only in themselves; they will disagree with what everyone else knows is right.

Intelligent people are always eager and ready to learn.

Pay close attention, son, and let my life be your example.

Practice these things and devote yourself to them, in order that your progress may be seen by all.

I know the heavy burdens that God has laid on us.

I have also learned why people work so hard to succeed: it is because they envy the things their neighbors have. But it is useless. It is like chasing the wind.

My child, there is something else to watch out for. There is no end to the writing of books, and too much study will wear you out.

You will have to work hard and sweat to make the soil produce anything, until you go back to the soil from which you were formed. You were made from soil, and you will become soil again."