Definition: All [things] have I seen in the days of my vanity: there is a just [man] that perisheth in his righteousness, and there is a wicked [man] that prolongeth [his life] in his wickedness.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ecclesiastes 7:15. It’s a really thought-provoking passage about the nature of life and how it changes over time. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that everything – our lives, our choices, even our good deeds – are ultimately temporary. It's not about being inherently “good” or “bad,” but rather that everything eventually ends. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "All [things] have I seen..." : This is a general statement. The author isn't saying everything is bad, just that we all experience things in our lives. "...in the days of my vanity…" : “Vanity” means a fleeting, temporary, or superficial thing. It’s something that seems important or valuable but doesn’t last very long. Think of it like a pretty dress that fades quickly. "There is a just man that perisheth in his righteousness..." : This describes someone who lives a life based on moral principles and doing what's right, but who ultimately ends up in trouble or punishment because their actions are good. They might be righteous in the eyes of God, but it doesn’t mean they will live a long, happy life. They’re “perishing” – meaning they’re ending their life. "...and there is a wicked man that prolongeth his life in his wickedness." : This describes someone who lives a life based on immoral or harmful actions and continues to live longer than they should. They're "prolonging" their life, but through bad choices and wrong behavior. What’s the point of this? The author is suggesting that true happiness isn't about how long we live, but about what kind of life we lead. It’s a reminder to focus on living a righteous and moral life – doing good things and avoiding bad ones – so that our lives are meaningful and don't end in sorrow. It’s a call for perspective: The verse encourages us to look beyond the surface and consider the long-term consequences of our actions, rather than fixating on how much time we have left. In short, it’s about recognizing that everything is temporary – good or bad – and that true fulfillment comes from living a life of integrity. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of things that might be considered “vanity” or “wicked”? Talk about the context of the passage (where it appears in the Bible)?