Ecclesiastes 6:4

For a stillborn child enters in futility and departs in darkness, and his name is shrouded in obscurity.

Study Bible

For it arrives in futility
The word "futility" is translated from the Hebrew word "hebel," which is a recurring theme throughout Ecclesiastes. It conveys the idea of vapor or breath, something transient and insubstantial. In the context of this verse, it underscores the fleeting nature of life and human endeavors. The Preacher, traditionally understood to be Solomon, reflects on the vanity of earthly pursuits without a divine perspective. This futility is a reminder of the limitations of human wisdom and the need for reliance on God’s eternal purpose.

and departs in darkness
"Darkness" here symbolizes ignorance, obscurity, and the absence of understanding or enlightenment. In the ancient Near Eastern context, darkness often represented chaos and the unknown. The phrase suggests that life, when lived without acknowledgment of God, ends without clarity or purpose. It is a poignant reminder of the spiritual darkness that envelops those who do not seek the light of God’s truth. The departure in darkness contrasts with the biblical call to walk in the light, as seen in the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament.

and its name is shrouded in obscurity
The "name" in Hebrew culture is more than a label; it represents one's identity and legacy. To have a name "shrouded in obscurity" implies a life lived without lasting impact or remembrance. This reflects the biblical theme that true significance and legacy are found in a life aligned with God’s will. The obscurity of the name serves as a caution against living for temporal achievements and encourages a focus on eternal values. In the broader scriptural narrative, it points to the importance of being known by God and having one's name written in the Book of Life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
- Traditionally considered the author of Ecclesiastes, Solomon was the king of Israel known for his wisdom, wealth, and writings. Ecclesiastes is part of the wisdom literature attributed to him.

2. Israel
- The nation to which Solomon belonged and over which he reigned. The cultural and religious context of Israel is crucial for understanding the themes of Ecclesiastes.

3. The Unborn Child
- The verse metaphorically refers to an unborn child, symbolizing a life that never sees the light of day, representing futility and obscurity.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Life Without God
Ecclesiastes often highlights the vanity of life when lived apart from God. This verse underscores the emptiness of existence without divine purpose.

The Reality of Human Mortality
The imagery of arriving in futility and departing in darkness serves as a reminder of human mortality and the importance of living with an eternal perspective.

The Importance of Naming and Legacy
The obscurity of the name in this verse points to the significance of leaving a legacy that honors God, as opposed to one that fades into obscurity.

The Value of Life and Light
The contrast between darkness and light in this passage can be seen as a call to seek the light of Christ, who brings meaning and purpose to life.

Contentment in God’s Sovereignty
Recognizing the futility of earthly pursuits should lead believers to find contentment in God’s sovereignty and His eternal plan.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of the unborn child in Ecclesiastes 6:4 help us understand the concept of futility in life?

2. In what ways can the themes of darkness and obscurity in this verse be related to the New Testament teachings on light and life in Christ?

3. How does the message of Ecclesiastes 6:4 challenge our modern views on success and legacy?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our lives are not lived in futility but are aligned with God’s eternal purposes?

5. How can the themes of mortality and obscurity in Ecclesiastes 6:4 encourage us to live with a sense of urgency and purpose in our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Job 3:16
- This verse also speaks of an untimely birth, drawing a parallel to the themes of futility and the absence of life’s experiences.

Psalm 39:5-6
- These verses reflect on the brevity and vanity of life, echoing the themes of Ecclesiastes regarding the fleeting nature of human existence.

James 4:14
- This New Testament verse discusses the transient nature of life, similar to the themes in Ecclesiastes about life's fleeting and often inscrutable nature.