I said of partying, “It is folly,” and of self-indulgent pleasure, “It accomplishes nothing!”

The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of merrymaking.

I thought to myself, “Come now, I will try self-indulgent pleasure to see if it is worthwhile.” But I found that it also is futile.

For he does not think much about the fleeting days of his life because God keeps him preoccupied with the joy he derives from his activity.

Go, eat your food with joy, and drink your wine with a happy heart, because God has already approved your works.

I did not restrain myself from getting whatever I wanted; I did not deny myself anything that would bring me pleasure. So all my accomplishments gave me joy; this was my reward for all my effort.

For to the one who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy, but to the sinner, he gives the task of amassing wealth – only to give it to the one who pleases God. This task of the wicked is futile – like chasing the wind!

So I recommend the enjoyment of life, for there is nothing better on earth for a person to do except to eat, drink, and enjoy life. So joy will accompany him in his toil during the days of his life which God gives him on earth.