What is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 7:19?

Wisdom

“Wisdom makes the wise man stronger than ten rulers in a city.” (Ecclesiastes 7:19)

• Scripture consistently links true wisdom with knowing and fearing the Lord (Proverbs 1:7; Job 28:28).

• Wisdom is more than knowledge; it is skillful living that aligns with God’s revealed truth (James 3:17).

• Christ Himself is called “our wisdom from God” (1 Corinthians 1:30), so seeking wisdom ultimately means seeking Him.

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Makes the wise man stronger

• Wisdom supplies inner strength that outlasts physical might or political leverage (Proverbs 24:5; Psalm 119:98).

• It equips a person to navigate temptation, suffering, and complex decisions (2 Timothy 3:15–17; James 1:5).

• This strength is moral and spiritual: a settled heart, clear discernment, and courageous obedience (Joshua 1:8–9 echoed in Psalm 1:2–3).

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Than ten rulers in a city

• “Ten rulers” pictures impressive civic power, a miniature council of authorities. Yet wisdom outshines them all.

– Solomon elsewhere notes that “a poor but wise youth is better than an old but foolish king” (Ecclesiastes 4:13).

– God used Joseph’s wisdom to save nations, eclipsing Pharaoh’s governors (Genesis 41:39–44).

– David’s insight from the Lord outmatched the strategic might of Saul and his army (1 Samuel 18:14,30).

• The verse underscores that godly insight surpasses collective human authority (Psalm 20:7; Proverbs 21:22).

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Daily takeaway

• Pursue wisdom in God’s Word; it fortifies you for every arena—home, work, church, community.

• Measure influence not by titles or numbers but by alignment with Scripture (2 Corinthians 10:3–5).

• Share wisdom humbly; its quiet power often reshapes situations more than open force (Proverbs 15:1; Ecclesiastes 9:17–18).

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summary

Ecclesiastes 7:19 declares that the person who lives by God-given wisdom possesses a strength superior to any civic alliance or human authority. Rooted in the fear of the Lord and centered on Christ, this wisdom grants discernment, endurance, and influence that outlasts and outweighs political power.