Ecclesiastes 9:16

New International Reader's Version

So I said, “It’s better to be wise than to be powerful.” But people look down on the poor man’s wisdom. No one pays any attention to what he says.

Cross References

Proverbs 10:15

The wealth of rich people is like a city that makes them feel safe. But having nothing destroys those who are poor.

Proverbs 21:22

A wise person can attack a strong city. They can pull down the place of safety its people trust in.

Proverbs 24:5

Wise people have success by means of great power. Those who have knowledge gather strength.

Proverbs 8:14

I have good sense and give good advice. I have understanding and power.

Ecclesiastes 10:10

Suppose the blade of an ax is dull. And its edge hasn’t been sharpened. Then more effort is needed to use it. But skill will bring success.

Ecclesiastes 7:12

Wisdom provides safety, just as money provides safety. But here’s the advantage of wisdom. It guards those who have it.

Ecclesiastes 7:19

Wisdom makes one wise person more powerful than ten rulers in a city.

Ecclesiastes 9:18

Wisdom is better than weapons of war. But one sinner destroys a lot of good.