Definition: In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou [art], and unto dust shalt thou return.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It’s a really important one about our origins and responsibility. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about the beginning of humanity – we were created as humans, but then God took us away from the earth. It highlights that we are made of dust and will eventually return to that same state. Let’s unpack each part: “In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread…” : This means we started out as living beings, full of life and energy. We were nourished by food like bread, and our bodies were designed for it. It's a simple image of needing sustenance. “…until thou return unto the ground” : We were taken from the earth – God created us and placed us in a place on the planet. Then, he took us back to the dirt from which we came. “For out of it wast thou taken…” : This is a key point. We weren't created with our own purpose or identity. We were taken away – perhaps by sin or a mistake, and then removed from our original state. It’s a reminder that we are not inherently good or worthy on our own. “For dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.” : This is the most profound part. We are made of dust (the same stuff as soil). And just like dirt, we will eventually return to it – back to the earth from which we came. What does this mean in a broader sense? This verse can be interpreted on several levels: Our Relationship with God: It shows that our relationship with God is one of responsibility and humility. We are created, but we need his guidance and love to continue living. The Problem of Sin: It speaks about the consequences of disobedience – the fall from grace. We are inherently flawed by our own choices, and this verse reminds us of that. Our Mortality: It acknowledges our eventual end – death. It's a reminder that everything changes, including us. Important Note: This is a difficult passage to understand, and there’s been a lot of debate about its meaning throughout history. However, it’s a foundational concept in Christian theology, emphasizing our dependence on God and the importance of living a moral life. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Discuss its connection to other Bible stories? Explore different interpretations of the verse?