Ecclesiastes 8:16 - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

When I applied my heart to know wisdom He seems to be here assigning the reason of that judgment which he had now passed, (Ecclesiastes 8:15,) which reason is, that he had diligently studied wherein man's wisdom consists, and had observed the restlessness of men's minds and bodies in other courses; and to see the business To observe men's various designs and employments, and their unwearied labours about worldly things. For there is that neither day nor night seeth sleep Having now mentioned the business which is done, or which man doth, upon earth, he further adds, as an evidence of man's eagerness in pursuing his business, For even by day and by night he The busy man; seeth not sleep with his eyes He grudges himself necessary refreshments, and disquiets himself with endless cares and labours.