What is this?

This simple statement contains deep meaning and philosophical implications that are worth exploring in detail. By breaking down each element of this enigma, we can discover how it can lead us to deep reflection on the nature of man, the passage of time and the evolution of life.

In the morning, this animal walks on all fours. This first stage of the enigma evokes the youth of the human being. Indeed, babies are born unable to stand on their two legs, and they learn to move by crawling on all fours. This initial phase of life is marked by innocence, curiosity and exploration. Children discover the world around them, seeking to understand the mechanisms that govern them. They are without prejudice, without judgment, and they experiment without fear.

At midday, this animal walks on two legs. This second part of the riddle refers to adulthood. Once humans learn to walk on two legs, they become autonomous and capable of making conscious decisions. He gets up, stands on his feet, and begins to explore the world with a deeper understanding. Adult human beings are capable of thinking, reasoning, and are often confronted with life's challenges, responsibilities and moral decisions. He is able to make choices and influence his own destiny.

In the evening, this animal walks on three legs. This final stage of the puzzle is a representation of aging and the end of life. As humans age, they may lose physical strength and mobility. The support of a cane becomes necessary to maintain balance. However, this is not just a description of physical weakness. The evening of life also symbolizes the wisdom and maturity that comes with experience. Old people have come a long way and gained deep knowledge of life. They experienced joys, sorrows, successes and failures. Their three-legged walk represents the need to rely on lessons from the past to move forward in the present.

When reflecting on this enigma, it is important to note that it is not only a description of the physical evolution of the human being, but also an allegory of his spiritual and moral journey. It reminds us that life is a continuous journey, marked by distinct stages, each offering opportunities for growth, reflection and learning.

The transition from morning, where innocence prevails, to noon, where responsibilities pile up, and then to evening, where wisdom reigns, reflects the cycle of life itself. Each phase is valuable in its own way, and each offers us unique lessons.

Yet this conundrum goes beyond the individual. It also evokes humanity as a whole. When we look at human history, we can see parallels with the three stages of the enigma. The dawn of humanity, when our ancestors walked on four legs, is a period of discovery and exploration, marked by the development of society and culture.

The noon phase can be associated with the advanced civilizations that shaped the world and society as we know it today. Humans have conquered nature, developed advanced technologies, and built complex societies with sophisticated political and economic systems.

Finally, the evening period of humanity can be associated with our current era. As society advances, new moral and ethical questions arise. Environmental challenges, social inequalities and ethical dilemmas are increasingly present concerns. The need to learn from the lessons of the past and balance acquired wisdom with current challenges is more crucial than ever.

Beyond these interpretations, this enigma also invites us to reflect on the relativity of time. The three stages of human life represent a day, but they could just as easily symbolize an entire life. The speed at which we move from one to the other can vary depending on our experience, choices and life circumstances. Thus, it underlines the need to take full advantage of each stage, whether it is experienced as the morning, noon or evening of our existence.

In conclusion, the riddle “This animal walks on four legs in the morning, on two legs at noon and on three legs in the evening” is much more than just a puzzle. It invites us to reflect deeply on the nature of man, the passage of time and the evolution of life, both on an individual and collective level. It reminds us that each stage of our existence has its own value and that the cycle of life is a journey rich in learning and discoveries. She encourages us to embrace each phase with gratitude, to learn from our experiences and to evolve as human beings, respecting the passage of time.