Book of Ecclesiastes - Chapter 6 - Verse 3

This verse from Ecclesiastes 6:3 speaks to the idea that a life filled with emptiness and sorrow is worse than never being born at all. It reflects on the notion that it is better to have never experienced the joys and sorrows of life if one's existence is ultimately unfulfilling. The mention of having many children and living a long life underscores that material wealth and longevity are not synonymous with a meaningful and fulfilling life. The verse suggests that a life devoid of goodness and lacking a proper burial is a life not worth living, drawing a stark comparison to an untimely birth, which is seen as preferable in these circumstances. This verse encourages reflection on the quality of one's life rather than just its length or material success, highlighting the importance of living with purpose, meaning, and goodness.

One theological interpretation of Ecclesiastes 6:3 focuses on the idea of the emptiness of a life without true fulfillment. The verse suggests that even if a person has many children and a long life, if their soul is not filled with good, then their life is ultimately meaningless. This can be seen as a reminder that material possessions and worldly success are not sufficient for true happiness and fulfillment. By contrast, the reference to an untimely birth being better than such a life highlights the idea that a short existence with no attachment to the pains and disappointments of life may be preferable to a long life devoid of true joy and contentment.