Ecclesiastes 4:12

What does Ecclesiastes 4:12 mean?

A plain-English look at Ecclesiastes 4:12 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And if a man prevail against him that is alone, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And if a man prevail against him that is alone, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And two attacked by one would be safe, and three cords twisted together are not quickly broken.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And if the one strengthen himself, the two stand against him; and the threefold cord is not hastily broken.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And if a man prevail against one, two shall withstand him: a threefold cord is not easily broken.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And if a [man] overpower the one, the two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Context

v.11Again, if two lie together, then they have warmth; but how can one be warm alone?

v.12This passage

v.13Better is a poor and wise youth than an old and foolish king, who knoweth not how to receive admonition any more.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Ephesians 4:3

    giving diligence to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

  • Daniel 3:16

    Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer thee in this matter.

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