Definition: Woe to thee, O land, when thy king [is] a child, and thy princes eat in the morning!

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ecclesiastes 10:16. It's a really interesting and somewhat unsettling statement about leadership and responsibility. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying that when a king or rulers are young and pampered, they’re likely to be careless, wasteful, and focus on pleasure rather than the good of the people. It suggests a potential danger for a kingdom if its leadership isn't wise and focused on long-term responsibility. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Ecclesiastes 10:16” : This is a passage from a book called Ecclesiastes, which is often read as a philosophical reflection on life. It’s a bit of a mystery – the author isn't entirely sure why he wrote it. “Woe to thee, O land…” : “Woe” means sorrow or misfortune. "O land" refers to the entire kingdom or nation. So, this is a lament – a feeling of sadness and concern for something bad happening. “…when thy king [is] a child…” : This highlights that the king is young and inexperienced. “King” here means ruler and leader. "...and thy princes eat in the morning!” : This is the crucial part. “Princes” refers to advisors, officials, and those who are entrusted with leading the kingdom. "Eat in the morning" suggests they’re enjoying a lavish, carefree lifestyle – drinking, feasting, and living without serious thought for what's truly important. So, putting it all together: The verse warns that if a king or rulers are young and overly focused on luxury and pleasure (like eating lavishly in the morning), they’ll be prone to making bad decisions, wasting resources, and ultimately harming the people they rule. It’s a warning about potential pitfalls in leadership. What does it mean practically? It suggests that strong leaders need wisdom, responsibility, and a long-term vision – things that are often lacking in those who are young and easily distracted. It's a reminder to prioritize the well-being of the people over personal comfort or indulgence. Important Note: Ecclesiastes 10:16 is often interpreted as a cautionary tale about human nature, not necessarily a condemnation of kings. It’s suggesting that a focus on immediate gratification can lead to long-term problems. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific theme or idea (like wisdom, responsibility, or the dangers of complacency)?