Definition: But those riches perish by evil travail: and he begetteth a son, and [there is] nothing in his hand.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ecclesiastes 5:14. It’s a really interesting and slightly melancholic statement about material wealth. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that accumulating riches – having lots of money – ultimately brings unhappiness and loss. It highlights a cycle where things can break down, and the effort to gain more can lead to disappointment. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “But those riches perish by evil travail:” "Evil trabajo" is a tricky word. It means “bad work” or “difficult labor.” The verse suggests that chasing wealth isn't a straightforward path to happiness. “and he begetteth a son:” This refers to the birth of a child – a symbol of life, family, and potential. “[there is] nothing in his hand”: This is the core of the message. The father (the person trying to accumulate wealth) has nothing left over. He’s spent all his effort and resources and nothing remains for him or anyone else. So, what's the overall meaning? The verse isn't necessarily saying that money shouldn't be valued. It’s warning against focusing solely on material possessions because those things are ultimately fleeting and don’t bring lasting fulfillment. It suggests that true happiness comes from other sources – relationships, purpose, and a deeper connection to the world around us. In essence, it’s a call for a more balanced perspective. It encourages us to look beyond material wealth and consider what truly matters in life. Does this make sense? Would you like me to: Explain another part of Ecclesiastes 5? Discuss the idea of "evil trabajo" further? Offer some related wisdom from other parts of the Bible?