“This Too Shall Pass”: A Comforting Saying—But Not a Bible Verse

Bible Believing Christian
Sep 19
2 min read

“This Too Shall Pass”: A Comforting Saying—But Not a Bible Verse

People often quote “This too shall pass” as if it comes straight from Scripture. The phrase is comforting, but it’s not found anywhere in the Bible. Knowing its real origin—and what the Bible actually says—helps us speak truthfully and find even deeper hope than a proverb can give.

Where the Saying Really Comes From

Persian wisdom, not Moses or Paul. The earliest known version is a Persian fable about a king seeking a phrase always true: “This too shall pass.”

Spread through Jewish and Islamic tradition. Rabbinic writings and Sufi poetry used it centuries before English speakers adopted it.

Popular in English literature and speeches. The saying appears in medieval writings and became famous in the United States when Abraham Lincoln retold the ancient parable of a king seeking a phrase true in every situation—‘This, too, shall pass away’—in an 1859 address.

The Bible never uses these words. You can search every book, chapter, and verse: it simply isn’t there.

Why the Confusion?

The idea that troubles are temporary does match biblical truth, so people assume the quote must be scriptural. Verses that echo the thought include:

“For our momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison.” (2 Corinthians 4:17 NASB)

“Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5 NASB)

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.” (Matthew 24:35 NASB)

These passages affirm that hardship is temporary and God’s promises endure forever—but they never use the phrase “This too shall pass.”

Theological Reflection

Truth matters. Well-meaning clichés can drift into unintended distortion if we call them Scripture. The Bible’s real comfort goes beyond “passing pain” to lasting redemption. God doesn’t just promise an end to trouble; He promises eternal life and renewal.

Christ-Centered Perspective

Jesus, our unshakable hope: He said, “In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NASB)

Eternal security: Trials end, but Christ’s victory is permanent (Revelation 21:4).

Living word over passing words: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” (Isaiah 40:8 NASB)

Conclusion

“This too shall pass” is a wise and memorable proverb—but not a Bible verse. The Scriptures give something better: unshakable promises that suffering is temporary and God’s kingdom will never pass away.