King James Version

What Does Ecclesiastes 7:19 Mean?

Ecclesiastes 7:19 in the King James Version says “Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city. — study this verse from Ecclesiastes chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city.

Ecclesiastes 7:19 · KJV


Context

17

Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time? before: Heb. not in thy time?

18

It is good that thou shouldest take hold of this; yea, also from this withdraw not thine hand: for he that feareth God shall come forth of them all.

19

Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city.

20

For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.

21

Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee: take: Heb. give not thine heart


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Wisdom strengtheneth the wise more than ten mighty men which are in the city. The Hebrew chokmah (חָכְמָה, wisdom) provides strength (ta'az, תָּעֹז) surpassing physical or military power. Ten mighty men (shalitim, שַׁלִּיטִים)—powerful rulers or warriors—represent concentrated human strength, yet wisdom gives superior advantage. This proverb demonstrates wisdom's practical superiority over brute force.

Solomon had witnessed how strategic wisdom outmaneuvered armies (2 Samuel 20:16-22, where one wise woman saved a city). Proverbs 21:22 echoes this: 'A wise man scaleth the city of the mighty.' Wisdom provides discernment to avoid conflicts, insight to resolve problems, and understanding to navigate complex situations—advantages raw power cannot match. Paul later affirmed that God's 'foolishness' is wiser than human strength (1 Corinthians 1:25), and spiritual wisdom in Christ surpasses all earthly power.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern cities maintained garrison forces for defense—'ten mighty men' represented substantial military strength. City elders relied on both military power and wise counsel for governance. Solomon's own wisdom saved lives through discernment (1 Kings 3:16-28) and secured peace through diplomacy rather than conquest during most of his reign. In Israel's covenant framework, God provided wisdom to leaders as more valuable than military might (Deuteronomy 4:6). The wisdom literature tradition consistently elevated understanding over force—a countercultural claim in warrior societies. Jesus embodied this principle, conquering through apparent weakness rather than political or military power (Philippians 2:6-8).

Reflection Questions

  1. In what current situations are you tempted to rely on force, position, or power rather than seeking wisdom?
  2. How does this verse challenge worldly assumptions about what constitutes real strength and security?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
הַֽחָכְמָ֖ה1 of 8

Wisdom

H2451

wisdom (in a good sense)

תָּעֹ֣ז2 of 8

strengtheneth

H5810

to be stout (literally or figuratively)

לֶחָכָ֑ם3 of 8

the wise

H2450

wise, (i.e., intelligent, skilful or artful)

מֵֽעֲשָׂרָה֙4 of 8

more than ten

H6235

ten (as an accumulation to the extent of the digits)

שַׁלִּיטִ֔ים5 of 8

mighty

H7989

potent; concretely, a prince or warrior

אֲשֶׁ֥ר6 of 8
H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

הָי֖וּ7 of 8
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

בָּעִֽיר׃8 of 8

men which are in the city

H5892

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)


Study Guide

Historical Context

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.

Theological Significance

Ecclesiastes 7:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Ecclesiastes 7:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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