What is considered the "great equalizer" according to Ecclesiastes?

In the context of Ecclesiastes, death is referred to as the "great equalizer" because it is an inevitable reality that affects all people, regardless of their status in life, wealth, or wisdom. Throughout the book, the author emphasizes the transient nature of life and the futility of human pursuits when faced with the certainty of death. This theme underscores that no matter how much one accumulates in terms of riches, power, or knowledge, each person ultimately meets the same fate—death.

By highlighting death as the great equalizer, Ecclesiastes invites readers to reflect on the meaning of life and the pursuits that truly matter. The author recognizes that all human achievements and possessions are ultimately temporary, and this awareness prompts a re-evaluation of what is genuinely valuable in life. This perspective encourages a humble attitude towards existence and the acknowledgment of life's brevity. In this way, death serves as a powerful reminder of the common human condition, uniting all regardless of individual circumstances.