King James Version
Ecclesiastes 9:16 in the King James Version says “Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard...” — study this verse from Ecclesiastes chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Then said I, Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard.”
Ecclesiastes 9:16 · KJV
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.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“is better”
H2896good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
“than strength”
H1369force (literally or figuratively); by implication, valor, victory
“and his words”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
“are not heard”
H8085to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
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 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.
Verses related to Ecclesiastes 9:16 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge