8Do not marvel if you see oppression of the poor, and violent perversion of justice in places, for these officials are under orders from those above them; but He that is higher than the highest officials, observes all this. 9What is produced in the land is for all; the king himself benefits from what is produced.

10He that loves money shall never have enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied; this is also vanity. 11As goods increase, so are they that consume them; and what benefit is there to the owners, except to feast their eyes upon them? 12The sleep of a laborer is sweet, whether he eats little or much; but the abundance of the rich will not allow him much sleep. 13There is a great evil which I have observed under the sun: namely, riches that are hoarded and work to the detriment of their owners. 14But that wealth is often lost through some misfortune; and there is nothing to be left to their heirs. 15As one came forth from his mother's womb, so shall he return – he shall take nothing of what he has accumulated when he departs this life. 16And this also is a great evil, that as he came, so shall he go. And what has he gained by chasing the wind? 17All his days he eats in darkness, and he has great frustration, sorrow, and sickness. 18This is what I have concluded: it is good and fitting to eat and drink, and to enjoy (take satisfaction from) all the labor done under the sun all the days of your life, which God gives you; for it is your lot. 19Furthermore, every man to whom God has given riches and wealth, and the ability to enjoy it - to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labor - this is his gift from God. 20He seldom reflects upon the days of his life, because God keeps him occupied with the joy of his heart.