Study Desk

I saw every work of God, and that a man is unable to comprehend the work that is done under the sun. Despite his efforts to search it out, he cannot find its meaning; even if the wise man claims to know, he is unable to comprehend.

For surely no man knows his time: Like fish caught in a cruel net or birds trapped in a snare, so men are ensnared in an evil time that suddenly falls upon them.

Now a poor wise man was found in the city, and he saved the city by his wisdom. Yet no one remembered that poor man.

And I said, "Wisdom is better than strength, but the wisdom of the poor man is despised, and his words are not heeded."

Even as the fool walks along the road, his sense is lacking, and he shows everyone that he is a fool.

The beginning of his talk is folly, and the end of his speech is evil madness.

when men fear the heights and dangers of the road, when the almond tree blossoms, the grasshopper loses its spring, and the caper berry shrivels-for then man goes to his eternal home, and mourners walk the streets.

When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man.

Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth! For your love is more delightful than wine.

Take me away with you-let us hurry! May the king bring me to his chambers. We will rejoice and delight in you; we will praise your love above wine. It is only right that they adore you.

While the king was at his table, my perfume spread its fragrance.

Like an apricot tree among the trees of the forest is my beloved among the young men. I delight to sit in his shade, and his fruit is sweet to my taste.

He has brought me to the banquet hall, and his banner over me is love.

His left hand is under my head, and his right arm embraces me.

My beloved is mine and I am his; he pastures his flock among the lilies.

All are skilled with the sword, experienced in warfare. Each has his sword at his side prepared for the terror of night.

King Solomon has made his carriage out of the timber of Lebanon.

Come out, O daughters of Zion, and gaze at King Solomon, wearing the crown his mother bestowed on the day of his wedding-the day of his heart's rejoicing.

Awaken, O north wind, and come, O south wind. Breathe on my garden, and spread the fragrance of its spices. Let my beloved come into his garden and taste its choicest fruits.

My beloved put his hand to the latch; my heart pounded for him.