Definition: For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ecclesiastes 9:5. It’s a really thought-provoking statement about life and death. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that life is fleeting, and it’s all about to end. It highlights the contrast between what we experience – living and feeling – and what we remember – forgetting. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For the living know that they shall die…” This part acknowledges that life is a process, and we’re all going to experience death eventually. It’s a natural part of existence. “…but the dead know not any thing…” This is the core of the verse. When someone is dead , they don't have knowledge, memories, or understanding of anything. They are essentially "blank." “…neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten.” This means that even after death, our lives – and the lives of those we love – simply fade away. Our memories don't last, and what matters to us doesn’t stay with us. What it means in a broader sense: The Short-Term Focus: The verse encourages us to focus on the present moment and appreciate what is happening now . It suggests that we shouldn't get too caught up in worrying about the past or anticipating the future because those things are impermanent. The Importance of Remembrance: It’s a reminder that our memories – our relationships, our accomplishments, and even our lives – are precious but ultimately temporary. They become like dust - they disappear quickly. In short, the verse is a meditation on mortality and the fleeting nature of life. It urges us to live fully now because everything we experience will eventually be lost. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific idea or theme from the Bible? Give you some examples of how this verse might apply to our lives?