Ecclesiastes 9:15 - Now a poor wise man was found in it, and he by his wisdom delivered the city; yet no man remembered that same poor man.

Generated Verse: Ecclesiastes 9:15

What does "Ecclesiastes 9:15" mean?


This verse from Ecclesiastes 9:15 is a poignant observation about the human tendency to forget those who have helped them, particularly if those helpers are of low social standing. Here's a breakdown of the meaning:

"Now a poor wise man was found in it..." This sets the scene. A city is in trouble, presumably facing a threat (war, famine, plague, etc.). A poor man, not someone of wealth or status, possesses the wisdom needed to save the city.

"...and he by his wisdom delivered the city..." This highlights the power of wisdom, regardless of the source. The poor man's intelligence and good counsel were effective in averting disaster and rescuing the city from its plight.

"...yet no man remembered that same poor man." This is the core of the verse's message. Despite his crucial contribution, the poor man is forgotten. He receives no recognition, reward, or lasting gratitude for his selfless act.

In essence, the verse illustrates the following points:

The value of wisdom: Regardless of social status, wisdom can be a powerful tool for good.
Social inequality: The poor are often overlooked and their contributions devalued.
Human ingratitude: People are quick to forget those who have helped them, especially when those helpers are not powerful or influential.
The fleeting nature of fame and recognition: Even heroic deeds can be quickly forgotten.

The verse serves as a commentary on the often unfair and superficial nature of human society. It reminds us that true worth is not always recognized and that those who deserve praise and gratitude are often neglected. It is a reminder to be mindful of the contributions of all individuals, regardless of their social standing, and to express gratitude to those who have helped us. The verse is part of a larger section (Ecclesiastes 9:13-18) that contrasts wisdom with folly, showing that even though wisdom is superior, it often goes unappreciated.

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