King James Version
Ecclesiastes 4:12 in the King James Version says “And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” — study this verse from Ecclesiastes chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”
Ecclesiastes 4:12 · KJV
For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.
Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone?
And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
Better is a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish king, who will no more be admonished. who: Heb. who knoweth not to be admonished
For out of prison he cometh to reign; whereas also he that is born in his kingdom becometh poor.
KJV Study — Public Domain
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
“shall withstand”
H5975to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
“him and a threefold”
H8027to be (causatively, make) triplicate (by restoration, in portions, strands, days or years)
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
This verse is found in the book of Ecclesiastes. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Ecclesiastes 4:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge