Study Desk

For man does not know his time. Just as fish are caught in a cruel net and like birds who are seized in a snare, so also humans are ensnared at a cruel time when it falls suddenly upon them.

If the anger of the ruler rises against you, do not leave your post, for calmness can undo great offenses.

The fool talks too much, for no one knows what will be. Who can tell anyone what will happen in the future?

Feasts are held for celebration, wine cheers the living, and money answers everything.

Do not curse the king even in your thoughts, and do not curse the rich even in your own bedroom, for a bird of the sky may carry your voice; a winged messenger may repeat your words.

Send out your bread on the water, for in many days you will find it.

Divide your share in seven or in eight, for you do not know what disaster will happen on the earth.

Sow your seed in the morning, and do not let your hands rest in the evening, for you do not know what will prosper— whether this or that, or whether both of them alike will succeed.

The light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun.

For if a man lives many years, let him rejoice in all of them! Let him remember that the days of the darkness will be many— all that is coming is vanity!

Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth! Follow the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes— but know that God will bring you into judgment for all these things.

Banish anxiety from your heart, and put away pain from your body, for youth and vigor are vanity.

My son, be careful about anything beyond these things. For the writing of books is endless, and too much study is wearisome.

Now that all has been heard, here is the final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.

For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.

The Song of Songs, which is for Solomon.

May you kiss me passionately with your lips, for your love is better than wine.

Tell me, you whom my heart loves, where do you pasture your flock, where do your sheep lie down at the noon? For why should I be like one who is veiled beside the flocks of your companions?

We will make ornaments of gold for you with studs of silver.

Sustain me with the raisins, refresh me with the apples, for I am lovesick.