Ecclesiastes 7:1

A good name. Compare Prov. 22:1. A good reputation, based on character, is a priceless possession.

“He that filches from me my good name

Robs me of that which not enriches him,

And makes me poor indeed.”

One of the intimate rewards to be bestowed upon the saved is the “new name” promised all who overcome the world (Rev. 2:17).

Precious ointment. The word rendered “precious” is the same word that is translated “good” — “a good name.” The word translated “ointment” is given as “oil” in Gen. 28:18; 35:14; Ex 25:6; 29:2; etc.; and again as “ointment” in Prov. 27:9, 16; Eccl. 9:8; 10:1 (see Cant. 1:3). Perfumed oil was highly valued in the Orient, where fine-grade soap was not available (see Ruth. 3:3; 2 Sam. 12:20). In the Hebrew there is similarity of sound between the words “name,” shem, and “oil” or “perfume,” shemen.

The day of death. The parallel nature of the second clause to the first is clear when it is realized that the person who lives honorably and attains to a good reputation need have no fear of death. At birth, his life lay ahead, and he knew nothing of its pitfalls, disappointments, sorrows, and defeats. A ship sets sail and leaves the harbor, with little intimation of the perils that may be encountered on the voyage. Upon entering the harbor at the conclusion of a safe ocean crossing, a vessel is welcomed with rejoicing.

One’s birth. Literally, “the day of his birth.” One’s birth is the beginning of a brief “threescore years and ten” (Ps. 90:9, 10), but death may be the prelude to an eternity in the new earth (Luke 20:36; 1 Cor. 15:51-55), of rest (Rev. 14:13), of supreme content (Rev. 7:16), and of eternal glory in contrast with the present afflictions (2 Cor. 4:17).