Understanding “What Has Been Will Be Again”: Reflections on Life’s Repeating Patterns
Explaining Ecclesiastes 1:9 in Everyday Language
The phrase “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again” comes straight from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible. In simple terms, it means that history repeats itself and that most things we see happening now have already happened before. It’s like watching reruns of an old TV show—different actors and settings, but the same kinds of stories.
What Does This Really Mean?
- Cyclical Nature of Life: The quote is saying that events and experiences tend to repeat, whether it’s in our personal lives, in society, or even in nature. For example, people have always faced challenges, searched for happiness, and dealt with disappointment, just like generations before us.
- No True Novelty: When Ecclesiastes says, “there is nothing new under the sun,” it’s reminding us that even things that seem new—like inventions or trends—are really just new versions of old ideas. The core problems and joys of life stay the same.
- Perspective on Human Effort: Sometimes, it can feel discouraging to hear that nothing is truly new, as if our efforts won’t make a lasting difference. But this can also help us see that we’re part of a bigger story, and we don’t have to carry the weight of being the first or only person to experience something.
- Divine Order and Hope: For some, these words are a reminder that God has set things in motion, and our actions matter in a larger, eternal sense. Even if life repeats, there’s a higher purpose and hope for renewal.
Why Is This Relevant Today?
Ecclesiastes encourages us to reflect on the past—not just to feel stuck, but to learn from it. If we know where we’ve made mistakes or faced challenges, we can prepare better for what’s ahead. It’s like fixing a bridge that fell down so it’s stronger next time.
The message isn’t just about being stuck in old habits. It’s also about the chance for radical change. The text offers hope: even if the outside circumstances of our lives stay the same, we can invite a new power or influence (like faith, love, or personal growth) to change how we live and see the world.
How Can We Apply This to Our Lives?
- Learn from the Past: Take a good look at where you’ve stumbled before. This isn’t to beat yourself up, but to know where you need extra support or change.
- Embrace New Possibilities: No matter how much things seem to repeat, you can choose to allow new influences—like faith, kindness, or purpose—into your life.
- Hope for Renewal: With a new perspective, the future doesn’t have to be a copy of the past. Things can improve, and life can be fuller and richer.
Final Thoughts
In the end, Ecclesiastes teaches us that while life may seem like it’s on a loop, we have the chance to make tomorrow better than today. By learning from what’s gone before and opening ourselves up to new growth, we can bring hope and meaning into our lives—even if the world keeps spinning in familiar ways. So, don’t get discouraged by repetition; see it as an opportunity for renewal and a brighter future.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 