“In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.” (Genesis 3:19)

We all face death as a consequence of sin (Romans 5:12). But wisdom can be cultivated in one’s heart by remembering death’s reality. “A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one’s birth” (Ecclesiastes 7:1). Death reminds us to think soberly about living life wisely.

Look at the connection between the two halves of Ecclesiastes 7:1. The Hebrew word for “ointment” (perfume) can be a symbol of joy (Ecclesiastes 9:8), prosperity (Job 29:6), and a metaphor for reputation (Song of Solomon 1:3). Solomon combines their meanings to emphasize the significance of reputation and death. “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 his heart” (Ecclesiastes 7:2).

Reputation matters. “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold” (Proverbs 22:1). As an example, Ruth, a redeemed pagan Moabitess, compassionately cared for her mother-in-law. Boaz affirmed the good report of Ruth’s actions by saying, “It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband” (Ruth 2:11).

When one has lived a life well, especially for the honor and glory of Christ, the day of death will be a celebration of that life. Paul affirms this reality with this command: “Lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour” (1 Timothy 2:2-3). CCM