The phrase “And this too shall pass” is often quoted as a comforting saying, but it does not actually appear verbatim in the Bible. Despite its widespread association with Biblical wisdom, there is no specific Bible verse that uses these exact words.
Origins and Common Misconceptions:
The phrase is often attributed to the Bible, but it seems to have originated from Persian Sufi poetry or other sources rather than a specific Biblical passage. One popular attribution is to a Persian poem or a story about a Persian king, but no clear Biblical reference confirms it.
Potential Biblical Themes:
However, the sentiment behind the phrase—suggesting that difficult or challenging times will eventually pass—is in harmony with several Biblical themes, particularly those about hope, perseverance, and God’s faithfulness. Some Bible verses express a similar idea that hardships are temporary and that God’s love and mercy provide hope for the future.
Here are a few verses that reflect the spirit of “this too shall pass”:
- 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (NIV):
- “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
This passage acknowledges that current hardships are temporary and that something greater awaits beyond them.
- Psalm 30:5 (NIV):
- “For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”
This verse suggests that sorrow is temporary, and joy will come, similar to the comforting idea that difficulties will pass.
- Romans 8:18 (NIV):
- “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”
Here, Paul encourages believers that current sufferings are temporary and will be overshadowed by the glory to come.
- Isaiah 40:31 (NIV):
- “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This verse offers hope and encourages perseverance, promising renewal and strength through faith in God.
Conclusion:
While “And this too shall pass” is not a direct Bible quote, the Bible does convey similar themes of temporary suffering, endurance, and hope in God’s eternal promises. The phrase likely draws on the broader Biblical message of God’s support during difficult times and the ultimate victory over hardship.
