As a man came from his mother's womb, so he will depart again, naked as he arrived. He takes nothing for his labor to carry in his hands. As a man came from his mother’s wombThis phrase emphasizes the beginning of human life, highlighting the vulnerability and dependency of a newborn. The Hebrew word for "man" here is "אָדָם" (adam), which not only refers to an individual but also connects to the broader human experience. The imagery of the "mother’s womb" underscores the natural and humble origins of every person, reminding us of our shared humanity and the divine creation of life. In a historical context, this phrase serves as a reminder of the simplicity and purity of our beginnings, untainted by material possessions or societal status. so he will depart again naked as he arrived He takes nothing for his labor to carry in his hands 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 reflects his reflections on the meaning of life and the futility of human endeavors without God. 2. Mother's Womb - This phrase symbolizes the beginning of life, emphasizing the natural state of human existence at birth—naked and without possessions. 3. Departure - Refers to death, the inevitable end of human life, highlighting the transient nature of earthly possessions and achievements. Teaching Points The Transience of Material WealthEarthly possessions are temporary and cannot accompany us beyond this life. This truth should shift our focus from accumulating wealth to seeking eternal treasures. Contentment in Godliness True contentment comes from a relationship with God, not from material possessions. We should strive for godliness and contentment, which have eternal value. Stewardship of Resources While we cannot take our wealth with us, we are called to be good stewards of what God has entrusted to us, using it to bless others and further His kingdom. Eternal Perspective Keeping an eternal perspective helps us prioritize our lives according to God's will, focusing on what truly matters in the light of eternity. Humility and Gratitude Recognizing our humble beginnings and inevitable end fosters humility and gratitude for the blessings we receive, encouraging us to live generously and selflessly. Bible Study Questions 1. How does understanding the temporary nature of material wealth influence your daily decisions and priorities?2. In what ways can you practice contentment and godliness in your current circumstances, as encouraged by 1 Timothy 6:7? 3. Reflect on a time when you were tempted to place your trust in material possessions. How can Ecclesiastes 5:15 guide you in such situations? 4. How can you be a better steward of the resources God has given you, in light of the truth that you cannot take them with you? 5. What practical steps can you take to maintain an eternal perspective in your life, ensuring that your focus aligns with God's purposes? Connections to Other Scriptures Job 1:21- This verse echoes the sentiment of Ecclesiastes 5:15, where Job acknowledges that he came into the world with nothing and will leave with nothing, underscoring the temporary nature of material wealth. 1 Timothy 6:7 - Paul reiterates the idea that we bring nothing into the world and can take nothing out, encouraging believers to focus on godliness and contentment rather than material gain. Psalm 49:17 - This Psalm reflects on the futility of trusting in wealth, as it cannot be taken beyond the grave, aligning with the message of Ecclesiastes 5:15.
People SolomonPlaces JerusalemTopics Anything, Belly, Birth, Carry, Departs, Forth, Fruit, Gets, Labor, Labour, Mother's, Naked, Nothing, Return, Reward, Takes, Taketh, Toil, Turneth, WombDictionary of Bible Themes Ecclesiastes 5:15 4030 world, behaviour in Library Naked or Clothed?'As he came forth of his mother's womb, naked shall he return to go as he came, and shall take nothing of his labour, which he may carry away in his hand.'--ECCLES. v. 15. '... Their works do follow them.'--REV. xiv. 13. It is to be observed that these two sharply contrasted texts do not refer to the same persons. The former is spoken of a rich worldling, the latter of 'the dead who die in the Lord.' The unrelieved gloom of the one is as a dark background against which the triumphant assurance of … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Lessons for Worship and for Work Things to be Meditated on as Thou Goest to the Church. Literature. Ninth Day for God's Spirit on Our Mission Work Thoughts Upon Worldly-Riches. Sect. Ii. There is a Blessedness in Reversion How to be Admonished are those who Give Away what is their Own, and those who Seize what Belongs to Others. Covenanting Confers Obligation. Ecclesiastes Links Ecclesiastes 5:15 NIVEcclesiastes 5:15 NLT Ecclesiastes 5:15 ESV Ecclesiastes 5:15 NASB Ecclesiastes 5:15 KJV Ecclesiastes 5:15 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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