Ecclesiastes 6:4

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

Study Bible

For a stillborn child enters in futility
This phrase highlights the theme of futility or vanity, a central concept in Ecclesiastes. The stillborn child symbolizes the ultimate expression of life's fleeting nature. In biblical times, a stillborn child was seen as a profound tragedy, reflecting the unpredictability and often harsh realities of life. The use of "futility" connects to the Hebrew word "hevel," often translated as "vanity" or "meaninglessness," which appears frequently throughout Ecclesiastes. This word suggests a vapor or breath, emphasizing the transient and elusive nature of human endeavors. The comparison to a stillborn child underscores the preacher's view that life, without understanding or purpose, can seem as futile as a life that never fully begins.

and departs in darkness
The imagery of darkness here conveys a sense of obscurity and the unknown. In the ancient Near Eastern context, darkness often symbolized death, ignorance, or the absence of God's presence. The stillborn child, having never seen the light of day, departs in darkness, which can be interpreted as a metaphor for the lack of fulfillment or understanding in life. This reflects the broader existential questions posed in Ecclesiastes about the meaning of life and the inevitability of death. The darkness also contrasts with the biblical theme of light as life and truth, as seen in passages like John 1:4-5, where light represents the life and revelation brought by Christ.

and his name is shrouded in obscurity
In biblical culture, a name held significant importance, often reflecting one's identity, character, or destiny. The absence of a name for the stillborn child signifies a lack of identity and remembrance, emphasizing the theme of obscurity. This can be seen as a commentary on the human desire for legacy and remembrance, which Ecclesiastes suggests is ultimately futile. The obscurity of the name parallels the preacher's observations about the fleeting nature of fame and human achievement. In contrast, the Bible often highlights the eternal significance of names written in the Book of Life, as seen in Revelation 3:5, where believers are promised that their names will never be blotted out. This contrast underscores the transient nature of earthly recognition compared to the eternal recognition by God.

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.