There is a thing [of] which it is said, "Look at this! This is new!" [But] it already existed in ages past before us.

I acquired male slaves and female slaves, as well as children [born in my] house. I also had livestock, cattle, and flocks more than anyone who [was] before me in Jerusalem.

Thus, {I accomplished far more} than anyone who [was] before me in Jerusalem--indeed, my wisdom stood by me.

I know everything God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it, and nothing can be taken from it, for God so acts that humans might stand in awe before him.

There is no end to all the people, to all who were before him. Yet the later generation will not rejoice in him, for this also [is] vanity and chasing wind!

Do not be rash with your mouth, and do not let your heart be quick to utter a word before God. For God is in heaven, and you [are] on earth; therefore, let your words be few.

When prosperity increases, those who consume it increase. {So its owner gains nothing, except to see his wealth before it is spent}.

Do not act excessively wicked, and do not be a fool, lest you die before your time.

If the snake bites before the charming, {the snake charmer will not succeed}.

Remember your Creator in the days of your youth-- before the days of trouble come and the years draw near when you will say, "I find no pleasure in them!"

Before the sun, the light, the moon, and the stars darken and the clouds return after the rain.

Before the silver cord is snapped and the golden bowl is broken; and the jar at the foundation is broken, and the wheel at the cistern is broken.