Gradle finds wrong JAVA_HOME even though it's correctly set

Deep diving into JAVA_HOME

Understanding JAVA_HOME misalignment can be baffling. Let's dissect common scenarios.

Exporting JAVA_HOME for a session

Start with exporting JAVA_HOME for each session. It's like having your morning coffee, a must!

# If JAVA_HOME doesn't wake up with you, wake it up manually
export JAVA_HOME=/path/to/your/jdk
export PATH=$JAVA_HOME/bin:$PATH
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Confirm the JAVA_HOME export

Verify JAVA_HOME using echo $JAVA_HOME. For good measure, check java -version and javac -version. It's like a daily health check, but for your Java setup.

Be cautious of sudo

Avoid sudo with Gradle, unless necessary. Acting as root can lead to weird environment changes and some real head-scratchers!

JAVA_HOME in multiple script files

Ensure JAVA_HOME matches across .bashrc, .bash_profile, and /etc/profile. Consistency is key, like with coffee brewing methods.

Linking issues? Symlinks to the rescue!

Symlinks can save the day when paths vary:

# Directing lost paths like Google Maps
sudo ln -s /path/to/correct/java /path/where/wrong/java/was
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Choose the wrapper, Luke

Using the Gradle wrapper helps. System Gradle? Well, may the force be with you.

Shedding light on advanced troubleshooting

Even after setting JAVA_HOME, if issues persist, don't panic. Take these steps:

Inspect other Java-dependent apps

Confirm system-wide JAVA_HOME unity by checking other Java-dependent apps.

Expose system's Java path

Run whereis java to dissect system Java path and JAVA_HOME.

Use readlink to unravel symlinks

readlink is a detective for unveiling symlink destinations:

# It sees right through those symlinks' tricks
readlink -f $(which javac)
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Peek inside Gradle's brain

Check which JDK Gradle uses by using the 👀 ... I mean, the --info log:

# This is no undercover operation, just info tracking
./gradlew build --info
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Simplify! Simplify!

Use sdkman for easy-peasy JAVA_HOME configuration. It's like having a Java assistant, except, it's for Java.