The idiom “under the sun” is a common phrase that has been used for centuries. It’s a versatile expression that can be applied to various situations and contexts. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning and origins of this idiom, as well as its usage in everyday language.
The Meaning Behind the Phrase
When someone says “under the sun”, they’re referring to everything that exists or happens on Earth. It’s a way of emphasizing the vastness and diversity of the world we live in. For example, you might hear someone say, “There’s nothing new under the sun,” which means that everything has been done or experienced before.
A Timeless Biblical Reference
What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. – Ecclesiastes 1:9
The phrase “under the sun” has its roots in the Bible, specifically in the book of Ecclesiastes. In this passage, the author reflects on the cyclical nature of life and how everything seems to repeat itself. The idea is that no matter how much time passes or how much the world changes, the fundamental aspects of human existence remain the same.
Variations and Similar Sayings
While “under the sun” is the most common form of this idiom, there are some variations. For instance, you might hear someone say “beneath the sun” or “nothing new beneath the sun.” These phrases have the same meaning and can be used interchangeably.
There are also other idioms that convey similar ideas. For example, “the more things change, the more they stay the same” suggests that despite superficial changes, the underlying nature of things remains constant. Another related phrase is “history repeats itself,” which implies that the same patterns and events tend to recur over time.
Reference: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ecclesiastes%201%3A9&version=KJV