This Too Shall Pass
"This too shall pass" is a widely quoted phrase of comfort and perspective, often attributed to the Bible, though the exact phrase does not appear in Scripture. Its sentiment, however, is deeply biblical. The expression finds its closest parallel in the life of King Solomon, whose ring was said to bear the phrase according to later Jewish legend. The Psalms are full of language reflecting on the temporary nature of both suffering and earthly glory. The New Testament likewise frames present trials as "light and momentary" compared to eternal glory. The phrase captures a biblical theology of time, that no earthly condition, whether joyful or sorrowful, is permanent, and points believers toward the eternal perspective that sustains faith in the midst of hardship.
Type
verse
Biblical verse
Significance
Though not a direct Bible quote, the concept reflects a core biblical truth: earthly circumstances are transient, and believers are called to hold them loosely in light of eternity. This perspective is a source of endurance in suffering and of humility in prosperity. It ultimately points beyond any passing season to the unchanging faithfulness of God.
About This Too Shall Pass
"This too shall pass" is a widely quoted phrase of comfort and perspective, often attributed to the Bible, though the exact phrase does not appear in Scripture. Its sentiment, however, is deeply biblical. The expression finds its closest parallel in the life of King Solomon, whose ring was said to bear the phrase according to later Jewish legend. The Psalms are full of language reflecting on the temporary nature of both suffering and earthly glory. The New Testament likewise frames present trials as "light and momentary" compared to eternal glory. The phrase captures a biblical theology of time, that no earthly condition, whether joyful or sorrowful, is permanent, and points believers toward the eternal perspective that sustains faith in the midst of hardship.
Why It Matters
Though not a direct Bible quote, the concept reflects a core biblical truth: earthly circumstances are transient, and believers are called to hold them loosely in light of eternity. This perspective is a source of endurance in suffering and of humility in prosperity. It ultimately points beyond any passing season to the unchanging faithfulness of God.
Key Verses
The most important scripture passages relating to This Too Shall Pass.
2 Corinthians 4:17
“For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.”
Context
Paul's clearest statement that present suffering is temporary and purposeful.
Psalm 30:5
“For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”
Context
A psalm of David assuring that seasons of grief give way to joy.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”
Context
Solomon's meditation on the cyclical, passing nature of all earthly experiences.
1 Peter 5:10
“But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”
Context
Peter's assurance that suffering is temporary and followed by divine restoration.
Romans 8:18
“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
Context
Paul places current suffering in eternal perspective, showing it will pass and be surpassed.
James 1:12
“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.”
Context
The promise of reward on the other side of endurance through hardship.
Psalm 23:4
“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”
Context
The emphasis on "through", the valley is traversed, not permanently inhabited.
Revelation 21:4
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”
Context
The ultimate biblical statement that all suffering will finally and eternally pass.
Isaiah 40:31
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
Context
God's promise of renewed strength after seasons of waiting and weariness.
Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Context
An anchor verse affirming God's presence in every passing trial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "This too shall pass" in the Bible?
No, the exact phrase "This too shall pass" does not appear in the King James Bible or any standard Bible translation. It originates from Jewish folklore. However, the underlying truth is thoroughly biblical. Passages like 2 Corinthians 4:17, Psalm 30:5, and Revelation 21:4 all affirm that earthly suffering and difficulty are temporary.
Where does "This too shall pass" come from?
The phrase is most commonly traced to a Jewish folktale in which King Solomon is given a ring inscribed with words meant to make him happy when sad and sad when happy. The story was popularized in the 19th century by poets like Edward FitzGerald and later by Abraham Lincoln, who referenced it in an 1859 speech.
What Bible verses are similar to "This too shall pass"?
Several verses capture the same truth. Psalm 30:5 says "weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." Ecclesiastes 3:1 teaches that "to every thing there is a season." 2 Corinthians 4:17 calls present affliction "light" and "but for a moment." 1 Peter 5:10 promises God will restore "after that ye have suffered a while." Revelation 21:4 declares that all pain will ultimately pass when God makes all things new.
How can I use this phrase to encourage someone biblically?
Pair the sentiment with actual Scripture for the deepest comfort. Romans 8:18 reminds the suffering person that present pain is not the end of the story. Psalm 34:18 assures them that "the LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart." You can acknowledge the current season is hard while anchoring hope in the biblical promise that God works through trials (James 1:2-4) and that his mercies are "new every morning" (Lamentations 3:22-23).