The answer is: Bible

Ecc 3:12

The text, “I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live,” strikes a thoughtful chord in the heart of wisdom literature. It comes from Ecclesiastes, traditionally attributed to King Solomon. This verse nicely encapsulates a central theme of the book: the pursuit of joy and virtuous living amidst life’s fleeting nature.

Trivia nugget: Did you know that Ecclesiastes is often considered quite unique among biblical books? While many parts of the Bible offer clear moral directives or religious law, this book presents a candid exploration of life’s absurdities and mixed purposes. It wrestles with great questions and acknowledges the complexity of human experience—making happiness and goodness stand out as bright jewels amidst life's challenges.

The call to “be happy and do good” aligns with several other themes across various biblical texts. For instance, Galatians 5:22 offers the “fruit of the Spirit,” which includes love, joy, and goodness, reminiscent of Ecclesiastes' encouragement to pursue a life rich in positive action.

What adds richness to this perspective is that happiness is not merely a personal endeavor; it's often shared. Engaging in acts of goodness establishes meaningful connections with others, enhancing our shared experiences of life. So the wisdom found here is not just about personal fulfillment—it's also about cultivating joy through community and service. In a world filled with uncertainty, that sounds like sound advice!