The Day of Death

Solomon wrote “A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one’s birth” (Ecclesiastes 7:1).  What an odd pairing it might seem at first glance of these two statements.  Yet the author has a clear truth he intends on communicating if we take the time to reflect on his assertion in the context he gives.  He follows up this statement with “It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to heart” (Ecc. 7:2). 

A good name speaks of reputation earned by the consistent pursuit of that which is wholesome, good, and virtuous.  Precious ointment was indicative of affluence or wealth in his culture.  Simply speaking, Solomon declares that character is more important than wealth.  But the opportunity to cultivate a good name is limited to this life for it is only at death that a good name is no longer at risk. 

We all know how easily a reputation is tarnished by some momentary indiscretion.  Solomon wrote “Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savor; so does a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honor” (Ecc. 10:1).  Recognizing the brevity of life and the certainty of death, Solomon is challenging his audience to number their days and with deliberation choose those paths that make for a good name.  This we learn by going to the house of mourning. 

When we go to the funeral of a friend or family member, we are confronted with death’s certainty and a wise man will learn from that experience.  We see the frailty of life and sense our own mortality.  It is a teachable moment as Solomon calls it.  We are confronted with the opportunity to weigh our own pursuits in the context of eternity and note their worth. 

Are we following after the things that make for a good name?  Do we value character over wealth and material gain?  For the Christian, the choice is simple.  But the pursuit is hard!  Yet, by the grace of God and with the light of his word to guide us, we can craft lives that are pleasing in his sight.  We can make choices that impact eternity in our otherwise brief and transient walk here on earth.   

                                    This one life will soon be past;

                                    Only what’s done for Christ will last!