Definition: Therefore remove sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from thy flesh: for childhood and youth [are] vanity.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Ecclesiastes 11:10. It’s a really profound message about how we should live our lives. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, the verse is saying: Don't dwell on sadness and negativity. It encourages us to actively eliminate those feelings from our lives. Let’s unpack that a little further: “Remove sorrow from your heart…” : This means stop letting negative emotions – like grief, anger, disappointment, or worry – take over you. It's about consciously choosing not to let these feelings consume you. “…and put away evil from your flesh…” : "Flesh" refers to our physical body. So, this is about actively rejecting unhealthy habits and behaviors that cause us pain – like selfishness, pride, or being overly concerned with things outside of our control. It’s about focusing on what's within our power. “Childhood and youth are vanity.” : This is the key part! The verse suggests that childhood and youth are fleeting and ultimately meaningless in the grand scheme of things. They don't last forever, and they won't bring lasting happiness or fulfillment. What does this mean practically? It’s a reminder to: Practice Gratitude: Focus on what you do have – your blessings, relationships, and experiences. Live in the Present Moment: Don’t dwell on the past (childhood/youth) or worry about the future (things that might not happen). Focus on What Matters: Concentrate on building a life of purpose, meaning, and connection with others. In essence, the verse is urging us to cultivate a mindset of contentment and acceptance – recognizing that these fleeting moments are just temporary, but our true happiness comes from within. Do you want me to explain any aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, I could talk about its historical context or how it relates to Stoicism.