Ecclesiastes 1:13

Gave my heart. This phrase or its equivalent occurs repeatedly in the book (chs. 1:17; 7:25; 8:9, 16) and elsewhere in the Bible. Among the Hebrews the heart was regarded as the seat not merely of feeling but of the intellect. Therefore “I gave my heart” would mean the same as “I applied my mind” (see 1 Chron. 22:19; Job 7:17). Solomon diligently cultivated his mind; he “gave” himself to the study of natural history, philosophy, poetry, and other useful knowledge.

To seek. Heb. darash, a word of broad meaning, embracing such ideas as “to search out,” “to expound a meaning,” “to discuss,” “to practice,” “to seek with application and study” (see Gen. 25:22; Ex. 18:15; Deut. 19:18; 2 Chron. 14:7; Ps. 119:10; Amos 5:14).

Search. In the sense of “explore,” “spy out.” It is used of the spying out of the land of Canaan (Num. 13:16, 17, 25, 32). It signifies pioneer research for knowledge. The two words “seek” and “search” together suggest going to the root of a matter and exploring it in all its aspects.

By wisdom. Literally, “the wisdom,” perhaps in reference to the wisdom Solomon had acquired during life, by God’s good pleasure, by personal study, and by observation. The Hebrew word is applied to skill and cleverness in various fields.

All things. “Things” is a supplied word. The Hebrew reads, “upon all which is done under heaven,” referring here primarily to human activities.

This sore travail. Literally, “this affliction of evil,” or “this evil affliction.”

Exercised therewith. God has implanted in the heart of man the urge to study and investigate. It is a laborious task, making great demands on one’s physical and mental powers.