1 Send forth your bread upon the face of the waters;after a long time you may find it again.
2 Make seven, or even eight portions;you know not what misfortune may come upon the earth.
3 When the clouds are full,they pour out rain upon the earth.Whether a tree falls to the south or to the north,wherever it falls, there shall it lie.
4 One who pays heed to the wind will never sow,and one who watches the clouds will never reap.
5 Just as you do not know how the life breathenters the human frame in the mother’s womb,So you do not know the work of God,who is working in everything.
6 In the morning sow your seed,and at evening do not let your hand be idle:For you do not know which of the two will be successful,or whether both alike will turn out well.
7 Light is sweet! and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun.
8 However many years mortals may live, let them, as they enjoy them all, remember that the days of darkness will be many. All that is to come is vanity.
9 Rejoice, O youth, while you are youngand let your heart be glad in the days of your youth.Follow the ways of your heart,the vision of your eyes;Yet understand regarding all thisthat God will bring you to judgment.
10 Banish misery from your heartand remove pain from your body,for youth and black hair are fleeting.