Old Testament
Ecclesiastes 2:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the speaker reflects on their efforts to create pools of water, which serve a practical purpose: to nourish the trees.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Solomon
- Written
- Around 935 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Those searching for life's meaning
I made pools of water for myself, to water the wood that brings forth trees.
I made me pools of water, to water therewith the wood that bringeth forth trees:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker reflects on their efforts to create pools of water, which serve a practical purpose: to nourish the trees. This imagery illustrates a desire to cultivate life and growth. The act of making pools symbolizes preparation and foresight, ensuring that the trees have the resources they need to thrive. It highlights the importance of taking initiative in our lives, whether in personal projects or relationships. By investing time and effort into nurturing what we care about, we can foster growth and abundance. The pools represent the resources we gather and the care we provide, emphasizing that our actions can lead to fruitful outcomes. This verse encourages us to think about how we can create environments that support growth, both for ourselves and for others around us. It’s a reminder that our efforts can lead to lasting benefits, much like the trees that flourish with proper care and attention. Ultimately, it’s about being proactive in our lives and making choices that lead to positive results.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Ecclesiastes 2:6 to your life
Consider what areas in your life need nurturing. Are there relationships or projects that require your attention? Take the time to invest in these areas, just as you would create a pool to support growth. Your efforts can lead to meaningful outcomes and lasting impact on those around you. Remember, small actions can lead to significant results over time.
Curated for this public verse page. Ecclesiastes Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Ecclesiastes 2:6 mean?
Ecclesiastes 2:6 reflects on the speaker's efforts to create pools of water to nourish trees, symbolizing the importance of preparation and initiative in fostering growth in life.
What is the significance of pools in Ecclesiastes 2:6?
The pools in Ecclesiastes 2:6 represent resources and care that are necessary for nurturing life, emphasizing the proactive steps we take to support growth in our endeavors.
How can I apply Ecclesiastes 2:6 to my life?
You can apply Ecclesiastes 2:6 by identifying areas in your life that need attention and actively investing in them, just as one would create a pool to support the growth of trees.
What themes are present in Ecclesiastes 2:6?
Key themes in Ecclesiastes 2:6 include nurturing growth, preparation, initiative, resourcefulness, and the importance of caring for others.

The Book of Ecclesiastes
Ecclesiastes 1: All Is Vanity
The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem, begin with the declaration that all is vanity. He says that what a person gains from all labor under the sun is unclear, because generations come and go while the earth remains. The sun rises and sets and returns to its place. The wind moves in circuits. Rivers run into the sea, yet the sea is not full, and the rivers return again. He observes that all things are full of weariness; the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.
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