Ecclesiastes 4:12 - New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition 2021

And though one might prevail against another, two will withstand one. A threefold cord is not quickly broken.

More versions

King James Version (Oxford) 1769

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

Amplified Bible - Classic Edition

And though a man might prevail against him who is alone, two will withstand him. A threefold cord is not quickly broken.

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.

Common English Bible

Also, one can be overpowered, but two together can put up resistance. A three-ply cord doesn’t easily snap.

Catholic Public Domain Version

And if a man can prevail against one, two may withstand him, and a threefold cord is broken with difficulty.

Douay-Rheims version of The Bible - 1752 version

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

Ecclesiastes 4:12 Cross References

2 Samuel 23:16

Then the three warriors broke through the camp of the Philistines, drew water from the well of Bethlehem that was by the gate, and brought it to David. But he would not drink of it; he poured it out to the Lord,

2 Samuel 23:23

He was renowned among the Thirty, but he did not attain to the Three. And David put him in charge of his bodyguard.

2 Samuel 23:9

Next to him among the three warriors was Eleazar son of Dodo son of Ahohi. He was with David when they defied the Philistines who were gathered there for battle. The Israelites withdrew,

Ecclesiastes 4:11

Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone?

Ecclesiastes 4:13

Better is a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who will no longer take advice.

Ephesians 4:3

making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace: