Does anything exist about which someone might say, "Look at this! Is this new?" It happened ages ago; it existed before we did.

I observed every activity done on earth. My conclusion: all of it is pointless like chasing after the wind.

So I dedicated myself to learn about wisdom and knowledge, and about insanity and foolishness. And I discovered that this is also like chasing after the wind.

Then I examined all of my accomplishments that I had brought about by my own efforts, including the work that I had labored so hard to complete and it was all pointless, like chasing after the wind, and there was nothing to be gained on earth.

So I hated life, because whatever is done on earth causes me trouble it's all pointless, like chasing after the wind.

Next I turned to consider all kinds of oppression that exists on earth. Look at the tears of the oppressed there is no one to comfort them. Power is on the side of their oppressors; so they have no comforters.

When possessions increase, so does the number of consumers; therefore what good are they to their owners, except to look at them?

Look! I observed that it is good and prudent to eat, drink, and enjoy all that is good of a person's work that he does on earth during the limited days of his life, which God gives him, for this is his allotment.

Because many words lead to pointlessness, how do people benefit from this? 12Who knows what is best for people in this life, every day of their pointless lives that they pass through like a shadow? Who informs people on earth what will come along after them?

Indeed, wisdom gives protection, just like money does, but it's better to know that wisdom gives life, to those who have mastered it.

"Look at this," says the Teacher. "Linking one thing to another, I reached this conclusion:

But things will not go well for the wicked person: he will not lengthen his life like a shadow, since he has no fear before God.

In addition, no human being knows his time: Like fish captured in a cruel net, or as birds caught in a snare, so also are human beings caught by bad timing that surprises them.

And I have observed servants riding on horses, while princes walk on the ground like servants.

So enjoy yourself in your youth, young man, and be encouraged during your younger days. Live as you like, consistent with your world view, but keep in mind that God will bring you to account for everything.

Sayings from the wise are like cattle prods and well fastened nails; this masterful collection was given by one shepherd.