I increased my possessions: I built houses for myself; I planted vineyards for myself.

I purchased male and female slaves, and I owned slaves who were born in my house; I also possessed more livestock – both herds and flocks – than any of my predecessors in Jerusalem.

I also amassed silver and gold for myself, as well as valuable treasures taken from kingdoms and provinces. I acquired male singers and female singers for myself, and what gives a man sensual delight – a harem of beautiful concubines!

I designed royal gardens and parks for myself, and I planted all kinds of fruit trees in them.

I constructed pools of water for myself, to irrigate my grove of flourishing trees.

So I was far wealthier than all my predecessors in Jerusalem, yet I maintained my objectivity:

So remember your Creator in the days of your youth – before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you will say, “I have no pleasure in them”;