Definition: Therefore I went about to cause my heart to despair of all the labour which I took under the sun.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ecclesiastes 2:20 together. It’s a really interesting and somewhat philosophical statement. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, the verse says that the speaker felt overwhelmed and discouraged by the everyday tasks and work of life. Let’s unpack it further: “Therefore I went about to cause my heart to despair…” : This is a key part. "Despair" means feeling hopeless or losing hope. The speaker was struggling with sadness, worry, and maybe even frustration about what they were doing. It's like when you’re facing a big challenge and feel like it might not be possible to overcome. “…of all the labour which I took under the sun.” : This is where it gets more profound. "Labour" means work – anything we do with our hands, from farming to building to even just doing chores. “Under the sun” refers to the everyday activities of life – working, building, making things - that are done in the natural world. The speaker was feeling like these tasks were pointless or fruitless because they weren't bringing them true fulfillment. They felt like it wasn’t enough to make a difference in their life. So, putting it all together: The verse suggests that the speaker realized that while work and effort are important, they don’t always lead to lasting happiness or satisfaction. He was feeling discouraged by the sheer amount of work he was doing and felt like it wasn't providing him with a meaningful or worthwhile life. What does this have to do with meaning? Many theologians and philosophers interpret this verse as a reminder that true fulfillment comes from something beyond material things, and that seeking only for easy labor can lead to unhappiness. It encourages us to look for deeper meaning and purpose in our lives – not just focusing on the tasks themselves, but on what makes us truly happy or valuable. In short, it’s a call to seek more lasting and meaningful pursuits than simply working for a paycheck. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Ecclesiastes? Talk about the context of the verse (when was it written)? Discuss how this verse relates to modern ideas about happiness or purpose?