Definition: In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both [shall be] alike good.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ecclesiastes 11:6 together. It’s a really wise and layered piece of advice about how to live our lives. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that we have control over our future, but we don’t always know exactly what will happen. It encourages us to be proactive, but also to be flexible and prepared for both good and bad outcomes. Let's look at it piece by piece: “In the morning sow thy seed…” – This refers to planting a seed. Think of planting something that will grow into a plant. It’s about starting things, making an effort, and setting in motion a process. “…and in the evening withhold not thine hand:” - "Withhold your hand" means don't interfere , don't rush , or don’t be too anxious . It suggests we should let things unfold naturally. It’s about trusting that God (or fate) will work its way through things. “…for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that:” - This is the crucial part. We can't always predict what will happen. Sometimes our efforts might succeed, and sometimes they won’t. There's always a chance of something good and something bad. “…or whether they both [shall be] alike good.” – This means that even if things don’t go exactly as we expect, there’s still the possibility of it being both good and bad. It doesn't mean everything is guaranteed to be positive; it just acknowledges that life isn't always predictable. So, what does this all mean practically? It’s a reminder to: Be proactive: Don’t just sit around waiting for things to happen – do something! Be prepared: Have a plan, but be open to changing your plans if necessary. Accept uncertainty: Recognize that life isn't always fair or easy, and there will be ups and downs. Trust in God’s Plan (or Fate): While we can't control everything, trusting that a larger purpose is at work can give us peace and direction. In short, the verse encourages a balanced approach – working diligently but also remaining flexible and accepting that life will have both good and bad times. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give some examples of how this principle could apply to different areas of our lives (like work, relationships, or personal goals)?