Ecclesiastes 1:17

New English Translation

So I decided to discern the benefit of wisdom and knowledge over foolish behavior and ideas; however, I concluded that even this endeavor is like trying to chase the wind!

Cross References

Psalm 73:16

When I tried to make sense of this, it was troubling to me.

Ecclesiastes 12:8

“Absolutely futile!” laments the Teacher, “All of these things are futile!”

Ecclesiastes 2:17

So I loathed life because what happens on earth seems awful to me; for all the benefits of wisdom are futile – like chasing the wind.

Ecclesiastes 2:3

I thought deeply about the effects of indulging myself with wine (all the while my mind was guiding me with wisdom) and the effects of behaving foolishly, so that I might discover what is profitable for people to do on earth during the few days of their lives.

Ecclesiastes 3:19

For the fate of humans and the fate of animals are the same: As one dies, so dies the other; both have the same breath. There is no advantage for humans over animals, for both are fleeting.

Ecclesiastes 4:4

Then I considered all the skillful work that is done: Surely it is nothing more than competition between one person and another. This also is profitless – like chasing the wind.

Ecclesiastes 4:6

Better is one handful with some rest than two hands full of toil and chasing the wind.

Ecclesiastes 6:9

It is better to be content with what the eyes can see than for one’s heart always to crave more. This continual longing is futile – like chasing the wind.

Ecclesiastes 8:16

When I tried to gain wisdom and to observe the activity on earth – even though it prevents anyone from sleeping day or night –

Ecclesiastes 9:3

This is the unfortunate fact about everything that happens on earth: the same fate awaits everyone. In addition to this, the hearts of all people are full of evil, and there is folly in their hearts during their lives – then they die.

1 Thessalonians 5:21

But examine all things; hold fast to what is good.