- English translation
“How is the frail person among you?” They replied, “The strong one among us has died.”
- Literal wording
“How is your weak one?” They said, “Our strong one has died.”
- Meaning and lesson
Physical strength does not guarantee survival, and weakness does not necessarily bring death. The reply overturns the expectation that the frail person must be the one in greater danger.
The saying presents death as governed by an appointed time rather than bodily strength. Its point is not that weakness offers protection, but that strength cannot keep a person alive once that time arrives.
- When it is used
Use this saying when someone's death challenges assumptions based on apparent strength or frailty. It can frame a reflection on mortality, especially when a strong person has died while a weaker person remains alive.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: “How is the frail person among you?” They replied, “The strong one among us has died.”