Albert Barnes Commentary Ecclesiastes 7:3

"Sorrow is better than laughter; for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made glad." — Ecclesiastes 7:3 (ASV)

Sorrow—Rather, Seriousness.

The heart is made better—that is, is made bright and joyful (compare 2 Corinthians 6:10). The mind that carries itself consistently in human concerns, whether they are pleasant or sorrowful, must always be glad, free, and at peace.