Biblical Concept of "This Too Shall Pass" in Scripture

The phrase "this too shall pass" is not directly found in Scripture, but its concept is rooted in various biblical passages that convey the transient nature of human experiences. The Hebrew verb "pass" or "pass through" (עבר, `avar) is used in several contexts to signify the fleeting nature of events, whether they be joyful or sorrowful ^{[1, 2]}.

In the Old Testament, the verb `avar is employed to describe the passage of time, the transience of human life, and the impermanence of earthly circumstances. For instance, Isaiah 28:19 warns that a calamity "shall take you; for morning by morning shall it pass through, by day and by night" ^[1]. This verse illustrates the relentless and overwhelming nature of divine judgment, emphasizing that the affliction will not cease until it has accomplished its purpose.

The concept of "this too shall pass" is also implicit in the biblical understanding of the temporariness of human suffering and joy. Ecclesiastes, for example, reflects on the cyclical nature of life, where "one generation passeth away, and another generation cometh" (Ecclesiastes 1:4). This cyclical view of life underscores the idea that no condition is permanent.

In interpreting biblical passages related to the concept, various traditions offer insights. John Gill, representing the Baptist/Reformed tradition, comments on Isaiah 28:18, noting that the calamity described will "take you away" as it "passeth through" ^[4]. This interpretation highlights the inevitability and swiftness of divine judgment.

The Jewish Rationalist tradition, as represented by Abraham Ibn Ezra, discusses the use of "And it came to pass" (ויהי, wayehi) in Deuteronomy 2:16, explaining that such phrases often connect seemingly separate narrative sections ^[5]. This understanding underscores the importance of contextualizing biblical expressions within their broader narrative framework.

The biblical concept of "this too shall pass" is not limited to negative experiences but also encompasses the transient nature of human achievements and pleasures. The biblical emphasis on the fleeting nature of earthly life serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual pursuits over temporal concerns.

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul's writings reflect a similar understanding of the transience of earthly life. Although the exact phrase "this too shall pass" is not used, the sentiment is echoed in passages like 1 Corinthians 7:31, which advises believers to live as though they do not fully engage with the world, "for the form of this world is passing away."

The concept "this too shall pass" thus finds its roots in the biblical narrative's emphasis on the impermanence of all earthly things, whether they be times of sorrow or joy. This understanding encourages believers to adopt a perspective that transcends the immediate, focusing on the eternal significance of their faith.

The biblical languages and interpretations provide a nuanced understanding of the concept. Hitchcock's Bible Names defines "Paseah" as "passing over; halting," illustrating the multifaceted nature of the verb `avar ^[3]. This definition highlights the complexity of biblical terminology and the need for careful interpretation.