Ecclesiastes 4:10

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.

For if they fall {H5307}, the one {H259} will lift up {H6965} his fellow {H2270}: but woe {H337} to him that is alone {H259} when he falleth {H5307}; for he hath not another {H8145} to help him up {H6965}.

if one of them falls, the other will help his partner up - woe to him who is alone when he falls and has no one to help him up.

For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up!

For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow; but woe to him that is alone when he falleth, and hath not another to lift him up.

Commentary

Ecclesiastes 4:10, a profound verse from the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, succinctly captures the immense value of companionship and mutual support. It highlights the practical benefits of having a partner or friend in life, particularly in times of difficulty, contrasting it sharply with the perilous vulnerability of isolation.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Ecclesiastes (4:7-12) where Qoheleth, often referred to as the Preacher or Teacher, shifts his focus from the futility of solitary toil and the oppression seen "under the sun" to the tangible advantages of partnership. Having observed that much human labor is driven by envy and can be meaningless when pursued alone (Ecclesiastes 4:4-6), the Preacher then introduces the idea that "two are better than one" (Ecclesiastes 4:9). Verse 10 directly expands on this principle, illustrating a primary reason why companionship is superior: mutual assistance in times of need.

Key Themes

  • The Power of Mutual Support: The core message is that when one person falls, a companion is there to lift them up. This speaks to the practical, immediate aid that relationships provide, preventing someone from remaining in a helpless state.
  • Vulnerability of Isolation: The phrase "woe to him that is alone when he falleth" powerfully conveys the danger and despair of being without support. It underscores the human need for connection and the inherent risks of self-reliance in a world filled with challenges. This echoes the sentiment in Genesis 2:18, where God declares it is not good for man to be alone.
  • Interdependence: The verse implicitly teaches that humans are not meant to navigate life's trials in complete solitude. It promotes an understanding of our interdependence, where strength is found not in individual self-sufficiency, but in the collective support of others.
  • Wisdom in Relationships: For the wise person, building and nurturing supportive relationships is not just a social nicety but a practical necessity for navigating life's inevitable setbacks.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "fellow" here is re'a (ืจึตืขึท), which can mean friend, neighbor, companion, or associate. It implies a close relationship, someone with whom you share a bond and mutual interest. The term "woe" (Hebrew: 'oy) is an exclamation of distress, sorrow, or pity, emphasizing the tragic plight of the one who falls without aid.

Practical Application

Ecclesiastes 4:10 has timeless relevance, encouraging us to cultivate and cherish supportive relationships in our lives. It reminds us:

  • To Seek Community: Itโ€™s a call to actively participate in communities โ€“ be it family, friends, church, or other groups โ€“ where mutual care and support are practiced.
  • To Be Available to Others: Just as we might need someone to lift us, we are also called to be that helper for others. This aligns with New Testament teachings on bearing one another's burdens, as seen in Galatians 6:2.
  • To Recognize Our Limitations: It's a humble acknowledgment that no one is entirely self-sufficient. Life presents unforeseen challenges, and having a reliable companion can make all the difference between recovery and prolonged struggle.
  • To Value True Friendship: This verse underscores the priceless nature of a loyal friend who stands by you through thick and thin, as highlighted in Proverbs 17:17, "A friend loveth at all times."

Ultimately, Ecclesiastes 4:10 serves as a powerful reminder that while much "under the sun" may seem vain, the bonds of human fellowship, marked by genuine care and mutual aid, are among life's most valuable and enduring blessings.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (15 votes)

    ยถ Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:18 (9 votes)

    Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

  • Isaiah 35:3 (7 votes)

    Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.

  • Isaiah 35:4 (7 votes)

    Say to them [that are] of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come [with] vengeance, [even] God [with] a recompence; he will come and save you.

  • Galatians 6:1 (6 votes)

    ยถ Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

  • Job 4:3 (3 votes)

    Behold, thou hast instructed many, and thou hast strengthened the weak hands.

  • Job 4:4 (3 votes)

    Thy words have upholden him that was falling, and thou hast strengthened the feeble knees.