Day #13: Sober Reflection

 It is better to go to a funeral than a feast. For death is the destiny of every person, and the living should take this to heart. (Ec 7:2)

 Solomon refers to death repeated in Ecclesiastes.  I can count at least eight times, including this one (Ec 2:14, 16; 3:19, 20; 6:6; 9:2,3). He repeatedly emphasizes the reality of death. And this is something we don't like to think about.  Our mind recoils from it.  Our eternal souls long for eternity, and the thought of life coming to an end is deeply troubling.  


In modern society we are shielded from death in many ways.  Former generations were more in touch with death and dying.  In the present day, the terminally ill are swept away to nursing homes or hospitals.  In earlier days they would have stayed at home surrounded by loved ones.  The deceased were often laid out in in the living room for visitors to come by and offer their respects. 


Yet as much as we try to insulate ourselves from death's cold realities, our culture seems enamored with it.  It has become the constant theme in our TV shows, movies, music, and literature.  It is something we just cannot avoid.  And maybe we shouldn't avoid it. That is why funerals are good for us. They force us to contemplate the meaning of life. 

 

Sorrow is better than laughter, because sober reflection is good for the heart. The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of merrymaking. (Ec 7:2-4)

 

Frivolous merrymaking leads to foolishness. Fools are less likely to engage in serious reflection and they miss the profound lessons of life. Why is sober reflection particularly difficult for some? Because it takes courage to confront painful issues- but it is worth the effort.  Solomon has demonstrated that he is not averse to hard questions about life.  His courageous wisdom leads us to ponder these issues.

 

And what is the house of mourning?  According to Jewish Law, the deceased must be buried the same day as their death.  Following this, a meal of condolence was provided for those who mourn.  For one week following the burial, the house of mourning would host friends and family.  Traditionally there was no grooming, marital relations, entertain, or study during that week, and sometimes the mourners would wait thirty days before cutting their hair.  Prayers were offered, the Torah was read, and memorial candles lit.  Professional musicians would provide somber music and chant dirges.  This was a time for sober reflection.  Mourning was a time to consider the life of the deceased, appreciate the contributions they made, and reflect on how much they will be missed.  The house of mourning  is in stark contrast to the house of merrymaking- and far more beneficial.

 

We might wonder if Solomon is more of a Stoic or Epicurean philosopher. When we read his exhortation to eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of our labor it sounds more Epicurean.  But here he sounds Stoic.  Simple conclusion- he is neither.  Since God has given him his wisdom, Solomon does not go to either extreme.

 

It is better for a person to receive a rebuke from those who are wise than to listen to the song of fools. For like the crackling of quick-burning thorns under a cooking pot, so is the laughter of the fool. This kind of folly also is useless. (Ec 7:5-6)

 

Youthful folly is not reserved for youth.  People of all ages can become close-minded. The wise person listens to correction, the fool will not listen.   A teachable attitude is vital to anyone who desires to grow.  We should determine to be lifelong learners.

 

However some are very selective in who they will listen to. They would rather enjoy the company of fools than listen to the wise. It is always possible to find someone who will agree with you, no matter how wrong you may be.  If you look far enough you can find the counsel you wish to hear. It is more important to listen to those who disagree with you, especially if they are wise. The fool whistles their way through life, when they should stop, listen, and seriously consider the error of their ways

 

Surely oppression can turn a wise person into a fool; likewise, a bribe corrupts the heart. The end of a matter is better than its beginning; likewise, patience is better than pride. Do not let yourself be quickly provoked, for anger resides in the lap of fools. Do not say, “Why were the old days better than these days?” for it is not wise to ask that. (Ec 7:7-10)

 

And those that consider themselves wise should be careful.  Adversity, corruption, pride, and anger can easily creep in and turn someone into a fool.  The wise are not impervious to failure.  As we study the life of Solomon, we see that he was no stranger to moral compromise.  Wisdom does not always ensure righteous living. 

 

Questions to consider:

  1. Can you recall a particularly meaningful funeral?
  2. What did you gain from it?
  3. When was the last time you received correction?
  4. What was it about?

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