Definition: For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all [is] vanity.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ecclesiastes 3:19. It’s a really thought-provoking and layered piece of wisdom. Here’s my explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that everything changes. It’s about the cyclical nature of life and death. Let's unpack it word by word: “For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other...” – This is a metaphorical way of saying that everything happens. It’s not just about humans, but all living things - animals, plants, and eventually, even death itself. "...even one dieth, so dieth the other…” – This emphasizes the inevitability of death. It's a straightforward statement of fact. “Yea, they have all one breath...” – This is a key part. "Breath" refers to life and existence. So, this means everything has a beginning and an end. It’s connected to the idea that everything is part of a larger whole. "...so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all [is] vanity.” – This is where it gets deeper. It's saying that no one truly stands out or has special importance compared to other things. We’re all ultimately temporary and subject to the same fate - death. The word "all" is crucial here – it emphasizes that everything is fleeting. “Vanity” means a lack of true value or worth. So, the verse suggests that we should not be proud or concerned with our own importance because everything is ultimately temporary and fades away. Overall Meaning: Ecclesiastes 3:19 is an observation about the nature of existence. It’s a reminder to accept that life is inherently fleeting and that true value isn't found in personal greatness, but in recognizing the impermanence of all things. It encourages us to appreciate the present moment because it will eventually pass. In short, it’s a philosophical observation about the cyclical nature of life and emphasizing the temporary nature of everything. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail with an analogy? Discuss the theological context (perhaps relating it to creation)?