6. But better is resting with one handfulthan working hard for two fistfuls and chasing after wind.
7. Next, I saw under the sun something else that was pointless:
8. There are people who are utterly alone, with no companions, not even a child or a sibling. Yet they work hard without end, never satisfied with their wealth. So for whom am I working so hard and depriving myself of enjoyment? This too is pointless and a terrible obsession.
9. Two are better than one because they have a good return for their hard work.
10. If either should fall, one can pick up the other. But how miserable are those who fall and don’t have a companion to help them up!
11. Also, if two lie down together, they can stay warm. But how can anyone stay warm alone?