The Futility of All Endeavors

The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem.

Do not be quick with your mouth or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God. For God is in heaven and you are on the earth; therefore let your words be few.

For the dream comes through much effort, and the voice of a fool through many words.

For in many dreams and in many words there is futility. Rather, fear God.

For there are many words which increase futility. What then is the advantage to a person?

Also, do not take seriously all the words which are spoken, so that you do not hear your servant cursing you,

Since the word of the king is authoritative, who will say to him, “What are you doing?”

So I said, “Wisdom is better than strength.” But the wisdom of the poor man is despised, and his words are ignored.

The words of the wise heard in calm are better than the shouting of a ruler among fools.

Words from the mouth of a wise person are gracious, while the lips of a fool consume him;

Yet the fool multiplies words. No person knows what will happen, and who can tell him what will come after him?

Furthermore, in your bedroom do not curse a king, and in your sleeping rooms do not curse a rich person; for a bird of the sky will bring the sound, and the winged one will make your word known.

The Preacher sought to find delightful words and to write words of truth correctly.

The words of the wise are like goads, and masters of these collections are like driven nails; they are given by one Shepherd.