4:1-3 Solomon had an extreme existential crisis; he observed the amount and organization of disparity in the world and it bothered him so much that he envied the dead. When he considered the condition of the earth separate from God, he experienced extreme despair and hopelessness.
4:4 Solomon continued to observe and noticed that the labor and effort of humanity results as envy in the people around them. He thought it a very pointless thing to spend one's life trying to impress others. Likewise it is foolish to live with stagnant jealousy of others.
4:5-6 A foolish person is lazy and does not labor. Their laziness consumes them. Solomon observed that it is better to have a modest amount, well earned, than two handfuls obtained by selfish or corrupt toil. Work hard and honestly.
4:7-8 It is extremely unhealthy to cut oneself off from others, pursuing wealth exclusively and never trying to make connections with others or a family for oneself. Solomon described such selfishness, such self caused loneliness as a grave misfortune. Life is quite empty without friends and family and even pleasant acquaintances. And such a reclusive life destroys not only the reclusive person but also their chance at sharing with and assisting others.
4:9-12 Solomon explains the value of a friend. Not only can friends help each other in good times and bad, friendships help us to grow in character. Friendship teaches us patience and comradery and selflessness.
4:13-16 It is better to be humble and wise in youth than arrogant and foolish... which would lead one to become an old and stubborn person. And even in a position of leadership, if one is not beloved or even liked, that popularity is empty.
