Ephemeral Reflections on Earthly Vanity
This excerpt refers us to an ancient perspective on the essence of life, emphasizing the transience of all worldly achievements and pleasures.
The phrase “The essence remains the same?! Vanity of vanities, all is vanity?” resonates with the idea presented in Ecclesiastes: all earthly pursuits—whether material wealth, pleasures, or fleeting joys—are inherently ephemeral and devoid of genuine benefit. This assertion prompts reflection on the fact that human efforts to seek happiness through accumulation and indulgence ultimately prove fruitless.
As explained in one source, the text provides the following example:
"All this has passed: suddenly a wind blew, swept the leaves away, stripped the tree bare, and shook it to its roots... Therefore, we recite this spiritual saying, constantly repeating: 'Vanity of vanities, says Ecclesiastes, all is vanity!'" (source: link txt)
Another source underscores the repetition of the word “vanity” in Ecclesiastes, explaining that even all efforts, pleasures, and worldly riches turn out to be futile and unproductive:
"By highlighting the pointlessness and despair of various bodily cares, Ecclesiastes subtly offers a positive teaching, indicating what the soul should aspire to. 'Vanity of vanities, says Ecclesiastes, all is vanity!'" (source: link txt)
Additionally, one analysis points out that the term “vanity” originates from a Hebrew word meaning a puff or breath—that which slips away and disappears, leaving only a sense of emptiness:
"(Eccles. 1:2). The word 'vanity' appears 39 times in this short sacred book... Hence its figurative meaning: an empty, fruitless pursuit." (source: link txt)
Thus, the song’s line poses a rhetorical question that encourages us to contemplate the value and ultimate significance of all endeavors aimed at fulfilling worldly needs. It serves as a reminder that even the most brilliant achievements, wealth, and pleasures are fleeting and, at times, deceptive illusions—ultimately, all are empty and futile.