For in much [human] wisdom there is much displeasure and exasperation; increasing knowledge increases sorrow.

Then I saw that [even secular] wisdom [that brings sorrow] is better than [the pleasures of] folly and self-indulgence as light excels darkness.

For all his days his work is painful and sorrowful; even at night his mind does not rest. This too is vanity (worthless).

If you see the oppression of the poor and the denial of justice and righteousness in the province, do not be shocked at the sight [of corruption]; for a higher official watches over another official, and there are higher ones over them [looking out for one another].

All of his life he also eats in darkness [cheerlessly, without sweetness and light], with great frustration, sickness, and anger.

a man to whom God has given riches and wealth and honor, so that he lacks nothing of all that he desires, yet God has not given him the power or capacity to enjoy them [all those things which are gifts from God], but a stranger [in whom he has no interest succeeds him and] enjoys them. This is vanity and it is a [cause of] great distress.

Sorrow is better than laughter,
For when a face is sad (deep in thought) the heart may be happy [because it is growing in wisdom].

I counsel you to keep the command of the king because of the oath before God [by which you swore loyalty to him].

Therefore, remove sorrow and anger from your heart and put away pain from your body, for childhood and the prime of life are fleeting.