Matthew Poole and continuators on Ecclesiastes 2:3

3 I sought in mine heart to give my self unto wine , (yet acquainting my heart with wisdom ) and to lay hold on folly , till I might see what was that good for the sons of men, which they should do under the heaven all the days of their life .

To relax and gratifie my flesh with delicious meats and drinks, Synecdochically expressed by Wine here, as also Prov. 9. 2. Cant. 2. 4. &c. as necessary food is by Bread, Amos 7. 12. compared with 8. 11.

Yet resolving to use my Wisdom, either 1. To set bounds to my pleasures. Or rather 2. That I might try whether I could not arrive at satisfaction, by mixing Wine and Wisdom together, by using Wine to sweeten and allay the toils of Wisdom, and Wisdom to prevent that destruction which many bring upon themselves by intemperate pleasures whilest they seek for satisfaction, that so I might have the comfort, without the danger and mischief of Pleasures.

To pursue and addict my self to carnal pleasures, which was my folly.

Till by trying several methods I might find out the true way to Contentment and Satisfaction, during this mortal Life.

Marginal references: Ch. 1. 17.; Heb. to draw my flesh with wine.; Heb. the number of the days of their life.