Why is "the day of death" considered better than "the day of birth"? The Verse in Focus “A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death is better than the day of birth.” — Ecclesiastes 7:1 Why Scripture Puts Death Ahead of Birth • Birth launches a life still marked by a fallen nature (Psalm 51:5; Romans 5:12). • Death, for the righteous, closes the chapter on sin, suffering, and temptation (Romans 6:7). • God values the completion of a faithful life more than its mere beginning (2 Timothy 4:7-8). Completion of a God-Honoring Reputation • A life well-lived culminates in a “good name,” now fixed for eternity (Proverbs 22:1). • At death, a believer’s testimony can no longer be marred; the record stands complete before God and people. Freedom from Earth’s Sorrows • “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on… they will rest from their labors” (Revelation 14:13). • No more tears, pain, or mourning await (Revelation 21:4). • Earth’s injustices and frustrations (Ecclesiastes 1:14) give way to perfect peace. Entrance into the Lord’s Presence • “To be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). • “To live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). • Psalm 116:15 underscores heaven’s perspective: “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints.” A Realistic View of Birth • Every newborn enters a world cursed by sin (Genesis 3:17; Romans 8:20-22). • Life ahead includes trials, toil, and the fight against the sinful nature (John 16:33; Galatians 5:17). Living in Light of This Truth • Hold loosely to earthly comforts, knowing a far better home awaits (Hebrews 11:13-16). • Invest in a “good name” now through holiness, integrity, and love (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Encourage one another with the certainty that death for the believer is promotion, not defeat (1 Thessalonians 4:18). |
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