Definition: For who knoweth what [is] good for man in [this] life, all the days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow? for who can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this biblical verse together. It’s a really thought-provoking one that's been debated for centuries! Here's my explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is asking a profound question about our lives and how we understand the future. It’s essentially saying, “Can we truly know what will happen to us after we die?” Let’s unpack it part by part: “For who knoweth what is good for man in this life…” – This means we don't know what’s best for us in our daily lives. We can't see the whole picture of how things will turn out. It’s about recognizing that our immediate experiences and concerns aren't always the most important. “…all the days of his vain life which he spendeth as a shadow?” – This is where it gets interesting. "Vain life" refers to a life filled with fleeting pleasures, distractions, and ego-driven pursuits. “Shadow” suggests something that’s always present but doesn't last or have lasting value. It implies that our lives are often spent chasing things that don’t truly bring us fulfillment. Think about it – we spend so much time worrying about what we want, rather than focusing on what truly matters - God’s will and purpose. “for who can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun?” – This is the big question! It challenges our ability to predict the future with certainty. The "sun" represents eternity – a time beyond our earthly existence. We can't see it, and therefore, we can’t know exactly what will happen in the afterlife or when we die. Overall Meaning - A Call to Focus on God: The verse is essentially encouraging us to shift our focus from what we gain in this life – material possessions, fleeting pleasures, etc. – to who we are as individuals and what truly matters to God. It's a reminder that: God’s plan is greater than our understanding. True happiness comes from living a life of obedience to God’s will. We should be concerned with the eternal, rather than the temporary. In essence, it's a call for humility and to trust in God's wisdom and purpose, even when we can't see how things will unfold. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Give some examples of what "vanish" might mean in a life? Discuss the historical context of this passage?