6 Here is a tragedy I have observed under the sun,^(A) and it weighs heavily on humanity:^{[a] 2} God gives a man riches, wealth, and honor^(B) so that he lacks nothing of all he desires for himself,^(C) but God does not allow him to enjoy them. Instead, a stranger will enjoy them. This is futile and a sickening tragedy. ³ A man may father a hundred children and live many years. No matter how long he lives,^[b] if he is not satisfied by good things and does not even have a proper burial,^(D) I say that a stillborn child is better off than he.^{(E) 4} For he comes in futility and he goes in darkness, and his name is shrouded in darkness. ⁵ Though a stillborn child does not see the sun and is not conscious, it has more rest than he. ⁶ And if he lives a thousand years twice, but does not experience happiness, do not both go to the same place?

⁸ What advantage then does the wise man have over the fool?^(G) What advantage is there for the poor person who knows how to conduct himself before others? ⁹ Better what the eyes see than wandering desire.^(H) This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind.^(I)

¹⁰ Whatever exists was given its name long ago,^[d](J) and it is known what man is. But he is not able to contend with the One stronger than he.^{(K) 11} For when there are many words, they increase futility.^(L) What is the advantage for man? ¹² For who knows what is good for man in life, in the few days of his futile life that he spends like a shadow?^(M) Who can tell man what will happen after him under the sun?