Proverbs 15 (ESV):

> 
> 9 The way of **the wicked** is an abomination to the Lord,
> but he loves him who pursues **righteousness**.  
> 
> 10 There is severe discipline for him who forsakes the way;
> **whoever hates reproof will die**.  
> 
> 11 **Sheol and Abaddon** lie open before the Lord;
> how much more the hearts of the children of man!
> 
> 
> 

> 
> 24 **The path of life leads upward for the prudent**,
> that he may turn away from **Sheol beneath**.
> 
> 
> 

> 
> 27 Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household,
> **but he who hates bribes will live**.
> 
> 
> 

Notably, verse 24 introduces directions: up & down. Given the context, it sounds to me as if the righteous are the ones who go upward, whereas the wicked go downward (to "Sheol beneath").

A similar notion of directions (up & down) is alluded to by Ecclesiastes 3:21 (ESV):

> 
> 21 Who knows whether the spirit of man goes **upward** and the spirit of the beast goes **down into the earth**?
> 
> 
> 

Since Ecclesiastes 3:21 is a question, it seems to convey uncertainty, as if the author is not quite sure, meaning perhaps that the answer to the question is unknown to him or depends on other variables.

**Questions**:

* Is there a connection between Proverbs 15:24 and Ecclesiastes 3:21? Are both passages talking about the same thing?
* Can a person avoid going to Sheol at death (down) by living a righteous life (up)?

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