Definition: All [things come] alike to all: [there is] one event to the righteous, and to the wicked; to the good and to the clean, and to the unclean; to him that sacrificeth, and to him that sacrificeth not: as [is] the good, so [is] the sinner; [and] he that sweareth, as [he] that feareth an oath.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ecclesiastes 9:2. It's a really interesting and somewhat philosophical passage about the nature of life and how everything is connected. Here’s a simplified explanation: Overall Meaning: The verse essentially argues that everyone, regardless of their actions or how they choose to live, experiences the same fundamental reality. It suggests there's a single, universal truth at the core of existence. Let's unpack it word by word: "All [things] come] alike to all:" This is the key part – “all things.” It’s saying that everything happens to everyone. It doesn't mean every single thing in the world, but rather that there’s a fundamental, underlying pattern. “There is” one event to the righteous, and to the wicked: This speaks to the idea of fairness. The “event” here refers to a specific outcome or consequence. Righteous people experience good things; wicked people experience bad things. It’s about justice – that everyone gets what they deserve. “to the good and to the clean, and to the unclean:” This highlights different levels of goodness and wickedness. “Good” means virtuous and moral, while "clean" signifies a state of being free from sin or corruption. “to him who sacrificeth, and to him that sacrificeth not: ” This is where it gets really profound. It’s comparing the actions of those who give and withhold sacrifices (or acts of kindness and selfishness). It suggests: Sacrifices are a fundamental part of life. They represent giving, offering something valuable, and making a commitment. The righteous offer sacrifications willingly and with intention. They are focused on the purpose of the act. The wicked offer sacrifices without thought or intention. They’re driven by self-interest and perhaps even seeking to avoid consequences. “as [is] the good, so [he] that sacrificeth:” This is a direct comparison. "As goodness is, so is it." It emphasizes that doing good (sacrificing) leads to good outcomes – it's not just about doing good for its own sake, but because it’s right and beneficial. “he that sweareth, as [he] that feareth an oath:” This adds another layer of meaning. “Feares an oath” suggests a sense of responsibility and caution. It implies that those who swear are aware of the potential consequences of their words and actions. In essence, the verse is saying: Life isn’t about individual triumphs or failures; it's about participation in a fundamental pattern of experience. There's a universal truth – a single event – that applies to everyone, regardless of how they choose to act. It suggests that true fulfillment comes from living a life of integrity and purpose. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as encouraging humility and recognizing our interconnectedness with all people. It’s not about saying everything is bad or good, but rather that we should strive to live in accordance with God's will – which involves making wise choices and acting with honesty and responsibility. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further in more detail? Provide a specific example of how it applies to daily life? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage?