I applied my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly. I perceived that this also was a chasing after wind.
THE SURROUNDING PASSAGE
Ecclesiastes 1:17 in context
Ecclesiastes 1:14–18
14
I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and behold, all is vanity and a chasing after wind.
15
That which is crooked can’t be made straight; and that which is lacking can’t be counted.
16
I said to myself, “Behold, I have obtained for myself great wisdom above all who were before me in Jerusalem. Yes, my heart has had great experience of wisdom and knowledge.”
17
Selected verse
I applied my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly. I perceived that this also was a chasing after wind.
18
For in much wisdom is much grief; and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.
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