Definition: For all his days [are] sorrows, and his travail grief; yea, his heart taketh not rest in the night. This is also vanity.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Ecclesiastes 2:23 together. It’s a really interesting and somewhat melancholic verse, and it has layers of meaning. Here’s what it essentially says: Core Meaning: This verse speaks about the human experience – particularly the feeling of sadness and restlessness – even when things seem okay on the surface. It suggests that even when life is filled with hardship and pain, our hearts don't find peace or rest. Let’s unpack it word by word: "For all his days are sorrows, and his travail grief..." : This part acknowledges that life inevitably brings sadness and difficulties. "Worketh" here means “does” or “goes.” So, “his days are sorrows” implies a continuous stream of challenges and disappointments. “Travesty grief” is a more poetic way of saying sorrow – it suggests a deep, persistent pain. "...yea, his heart taketh not rest in the night." : This is the crucial part. "His heart" refers to his feelings and emotions. "Taketh not rest" means that he doesn't find peace or tranquility even when he’s sleeping. It implies a constant state of unease and restlessness. “This is also vanity.” : Finally, the verse concludes with a sobering thought – it suggests that this persistent sorrow and lack of rest are ultimately pointless or futile. "Vanity" means lacking value or worth; it's like something that doesn’t truly matter. So, what does this mean in practical terms? It’s saying that we should be mindful of our feelings and not get too comfortable. Life is full of bumps and challenges – that's normal. But when those challenges become overwhelming and persistent without a sense of peace or contentment, it can lead to unhappiness and a feeling that nothing truly matters. The Bigger Picture (Possible Interpretations): The Human Condition: Ecclesiastes often explores the human condition – our struggles with mortality, meaning, and purpose. This verse touches on the idea that even in moments of apparent stability, we're still grappling with difficult emotions. Seeking Meaning: The verse might be a call to seek deeper meaning beyond fleeting pleasures or accomplishments. Perhaps true fulfillment comes not from avoiding sorrow but from understanding it and finding peace within ourselves. In short, the verse encourages us to acknowledge our sadness, understand its source, and avoid getting too comfortable – recognizing that even in times of apparent stability, there's still a need for rest and contentment. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with a specific example? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore different interpretations of the verse?