קהלת, פרק ב׳, פסוק ו׳

Building a grand estate requires more than just impressive architecture; it involves shaping the surrounding environment for luxury and beauty. As part of establishing a magnificent royal property, the king harnesses natural resources purely for aesthetic pleasure [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

To achieve this, large water reserves were created. Commentators offer different views on how these were built. They were either constructed from stone and plaster to collect and store water [מצודת ציון], specifically rainwater [אבן עזרא], or they were excavated directly into the earth, much like ponds used for raising fish [רש״י].

The primary purpose of these vast water stores was to irrigate developing gardens and nourish a growing forest [צאינה וראינה]. This massive irrigation effort was not meant for agricultural gain. Instead, the water was specifically directed toward a forest of barren, non-fruit-bearing trees, such as cedars and cypresses [אבן עזרא, מצודת דוד]. The goal of cultivating these trees was entirely visual. By providing them with an abundance of water, the king ensured that their branches would grow fresh, large, and exceptionally pleasing to look at, adding to the overall splendor of the estate [מצודת דוד].