King James Version

What Does Ecclesiastes 9:16 Mean?

“Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard.”

Context

There was a little city, and few men within it; and there came a great king against it, and besieged it, and built great bulwarks against it:

Now there was found in it a poor wise man, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man.

Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard.

The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.

Wisdom is better than weapons of war: but one sinner destroyeth much good.

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Topics in This Verse

Wisdom Strength

Commentary

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

19. The difficulties of the slothful result from want of energy; the righteous find a **plain [and open] way--**literally, "a highway," by diligence (1Sa 10:7; Psa 1:3).

Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.

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 9:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.