Ecclesiastes 1:9 Quotes
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The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.
Context
This line is written by the Ecclesiastes guy/gal in Ecclesiastes 1:9.
In the opening chapter of Ecclesiastes the author establishes his street cred with the Hebrews—he's been there, he's done that, etc.—and says a bit about the cyclical nature of things (very Circle of Life-ish).
Where you've heard it
Wanna hear this one in action? Just bring up how many remakes and sequels Hollywood releases each year, and someone's bound to throw it out. Then again, we won't complain if they make it to Fast & Furious Ten: Furiouser and Furiouser.
Shakespeare's 59th Sonnet plays with this quote.
Pretentious Factor
If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.
Probably okay. Just be careful how you use it. "Cheryl, I'm pleased to introduce my brand new baby, Gordon Flenderson III." "There's nothing new under the sun, Edna."