1There is another very evil thing which I saw under the sun: a man has riches, property, honor, and lacks nothing he could desire, 2yet God does not permit him to benefit from them; a stranger has the enjoyment. That is nonsense and a grievous hurt.
3What if a man had a hundred sons and lived many years but without tasting happiness and even without a tomb! More fortunate, I would say, the one untimely-born. 4For he came in vain and goes to darkness and in darkness will his name be hidden. 5He has not seen the sun and has not known it. Finally he has had more rest than that man. 6Even if he should live a thousand years twice over, but without tasting happiness; do not both go to the same place?
7Man works to fill his stomach, yet he himself is not satisfied.
8Has the wise man more than the fool? What is the benefit of wisdom to one overwhelmed by poverty?
9What the eye sees seems better than what the heart desires. That, too, is senseless and chasing wind.
10Everything has already been evaluated. One knows what man is and that he cannot dispute with the one stronger than himself.
11Many words, much emptiness; what does it profit? 12Who knows what is the good way of life for man, during the days of his meaningless life which pass like a shadow? Who will let him know what will happen after he has gone?
