So I decided to discern the benefit of wisdom and knowledge over foolish behavior and ideas; however, I concluded that even this endeavor is like trying to chase the wind!

So I thought to myself, "The fate of the fool will happen even to me! Then what did I gain by becoming so excessively wise?" So I lamented to myself, "The benefits of wisdom are ultimately meaningless!"

For all day long his work produces pain and frustration, and even at night his mind cannot relax! This also is futile!

For he came out of prison to become king, even though he had been born poor in what would become his kingdom.

The produce of the land is seized by all of them, even the king is served by the fields.

Even if a man fathers a hundred children and lives many years -- even if he lives a long, long time, but cannot enjoy his prosperity -- even if he were to live forever -- I would say, "A stillborn child is better off than he is!"

Also, do not pay attention to everything that people say; otherwise, you might even hear your servant cursing you.

Even though a sinner might commit a hundred crimes and still live a long time, yet I know that it will go well with God-fearing people -- for they stand in fear before him.

When I tried to gain wisdom and to observe the activity on earth -- even though it prevents anyone from sleeping day or night --

then I discerned all that God has done: No one really comprehends what happens on earth. Despite all human efforts to discover it, no one can ever grasp it. Even if a wise person claimed that he understood, he would not really comprehend it.

For the living know that they will die, but the dead do not know anything; they have no further reward -- and even the memory of them disappears.

Even when a fool walks along the road he lacks sense, and shows everyone what a fool he is.

The toil of a stupid fool wears him out, because he does not even know the way to the city.

Do not curse a king even in your thoughts, and do not curse the rich while in your bedroom; for a bird might report what you are thinking, or some winged creature might repeat your words.

Divide your merchandise among seven or even eight investments, for you do not know what calamity may happen on earth.