Definition: For he cometh in with vanity, and departeth in darkness, and his name shall be covered with darkness.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Ecclesiastes 6:4 together. It’s a really interesting and somewhat poetic statement about life and the pursuit of things. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Overall Meaning: This verse is saying that people often try to make themselves important or successful through fleeting pleasures, but ultimately, those efforts are destined to be disappointing and covered by darkness. It's a warning against chasing things that don’t truly last. Let's break it down word-by-word: “For he cometh in with vanity…” – This means "he comes" or "he appears" but it's doing so with a false or shallow purpose. He’s trying to impress us with his own importance, perhaps through fame, wealth, or status. “…and departeth in darkness…” – “Departeth” means he leaves. “In darkness” signifies that his efforts are shrouded in mystery, uncertainty, and lack of clarity. It suggests a lack of truth or understanding. “And his name shall be covered with darkness.” - This is the most impactful part. "His name" refers to his reputation, his accomplishments, or even his very being. “Covered with darkness” means that these things are lost, hidden, and ultimately become meaningless because they aren’t genuine or true. In a nutshell, it's saying that our efforts often don't lead to lasting satisfaction or fulfillment. They might seem impressive at first, but they eventually fade away without leaving a good impression or enduring legacy. The message of the verse is about: Real value isn’t in fleeting things: True worth comes from something deeper – faith, love, and purpose. Honesty and integrity are important: Trying to be someone you're not or pursuing a path that doesn't align with your true self can lead to disappointment. A call for wisdom and discernment: We need to look beyond appearances and seek genuine understanding and meaning in life, rather than chasing superficial things. It’s often interpreted as a reminder to focus on spiritual truths and living a life that is rooted in God’s character. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with some examples? Discuss the context of Ecclesiastes 6:4 within the broader book? Explore what this verse might mean in terms of our own lives?