What Does “This Too Shall Pass” Mean?
“This Too Shall Pass” means that a difficult, painful, or challenging situation is temporary and will eventually come to an end. The phrase reminds people that emotions, struggles, failures, and hardships do not last forever.
In simple words, it means:
“The current situation will change. This difficult moment will not continue forever.”
The expression is often used to offer comfort, encouragement, and hope during stressful times. It helps people remember that life constantly changes, and even the hardest experiences eventually become part of the past.
For example:
- Someone going through a breakup may hear: “This too shall pass.”
- A person facing a career setback may use it as a reminder to stay patient.
- During stressful periods, people use this phrase to regain emotional balance.
Although the saying sounds simple, it carries a deep message about impermanence, resilience, patience, and personal growth.
The Meaning and Deeper Message Behind “This Too Shall Pass”
The phrase is built around the idea that nothing in life remains exactly the same forever.
The word “this” refers to the current experience, whether it is sadness, anxiety, failure, confusion, pain, or even a difficult phase.
The word “too” emphasizes that this particular situation is also included among things that will change.
The word “shall pass” means it will move away, end, or become part of the past.
Together, the phrase communicates a powerful life lesson:
Every situation is temporary. Difficult moments have an ending.
However, the phrase does not mean that problems disappear instantly. It does not suggest ignoring pain or avoiding action. Instead, it encourages patience and a wider perspective.
A person saying “This too shall pass” is usually acknowledging:
- “I am struggling right now.”
- “This is painful.”
- “But this moment is not my entire life.”
- “Things can improve.”
This makes the phrase popular in conversations about emotional healing, motivation, and overcoming challenges.
Origin and History of “This Too Shall Pass”
The exact origin of “This too shall pass” is debated, and there is no universally confirmed source.
Many people connect the phrase with a popular story involving King Solomon, a famous figure known for wisdom. According to the legend, Solomon asked for a phrase that would humble him during moments of pride and comfort him during moments of sadness.
The phrase supposedly given to him was:
“This too shall pass.”
The story suggests that both happiness and suffering are temporary.
The saying is also associated with Persian folklore and Sufi traditions, where similar ideas about the temporary nature of life experiences have existed for centuries.
Although the exact historical source is uncertain, the message behind the phrase appears across many cultures:
- Ancient wisdom traditions
- Religious teachings
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Modern psychology
The idea connects with the broader human understanding that change is unavoidable.
When and How to Use “This Too Shall Pass”
“This too shall pass” is commonly used when someone needs reassurance, comfort, or motivation.
It works best in situations involving temporary difficulty.
1. During Emotional Struggles
People often use this phrase during moments of:
- sadness
- heartbreak
- disappointment
- loneliness
- stress
Example:
“My relationship ended, and I feel completely lost, but I remind myself that this too shall pass.”
Here, the phrase does not remove the sadness but helps create hope.
2. During Difficult Life Events
The expression is often used during challenging experiences such as:
- financial problems
- career struggles
- personal failures
- unexpected changes
Example:
“Losing my job was painful, but I knew this too shall pass, and I started looking for new opportunities.”
3. As a Motivational Reminder
Many people use it as a personal mantra.
A person might repeat:
“This too shall pass. I just need to keep moving forward.”
This encourages patience and emotional strength.
Is “This Too Shall Pass” Formal or Informal?
“This too shall pass” is a flexible expression that can work in both casual and formal contexts.
However, the tone depends on the situation.
| Context | Suitable? | Example |
| Casual conversation | Yes | “Don’t worry, this too shall pass.” |
| Emotional support | Yes | “I know it hurts, but this too shall pass.” |
| Professional communication | Sometimes | “Challenges are temporary, and we will overcome them.” |
| Academic writing | Limited | Explain the concept instead of using the phrase repeatedly |
| Formal speeches | Yes | “History reminds us that difficult periods eventually pass.” |
In professional environments, a more neutral version may sound better.
Instead of:
“Don’t worry, this too shall pass.”
You might write:
“Difficult circumstances are temporary, and improvement takes time.”
Examples of “This Too Shall Pass” in Sentences
Here are natural examples showing different uses:
Personal Life
- “I know today is difficult, but this too shall pass.”
- “After months of stress, I reminded myself that this too shall pass.”
Encouraging Someone
- “I’m sorry you are going through this. Remember, this too shall pass.”
- “Stay strong. This difficult chapter will not last forever.”
Work and Career
- “The project failure was disappointing, but this too shall pass.”
- “Every professional faces setbacks. This too shall pass.”
Writing and Literature
- “The character learned that every storm ends because this too shall pass.”
Social Media and Captions
- “A reminder for today: this too shall pass.”
This Too Shall Pass: Meaning, Usage, Alternatives, Examples, and Complete Guide Alternatives and Similar Phrases to “This Too Shall Pass”
Although “This too shall pass” is one of the most recognized expressions about temporary struggles, many other phrases communicate a similar message.
These alternatives can be useful depending on the tone and situation.
1. “Every cloud has a silver lining”
This phrase means that even difficult situations may contain something positive.
Example:
“Losing that job was painful, but every cloud has a silver lining because it helped me discover a better career path.”
This saying focuses more on finding a benefit in a difficult experience, while “This too shall pass” focuses on the temporary nature of the situation.
2. “Time heals all wounds”
This expression suggests that emotional pain becomes easier to handle as time goes by.
Example:
“I know the loss hurts now, but time heals all wounds.”
It is often used for grief, heartbreak, and emotional recovery.
3. “After the storm comes the calm”
This phrase compares problems to storms and suggests that peace follows difficulty.
Example:
“Keep going. After the storm comes the calm.”
It creates a hopeful image of change and recovery.
4. “Things will get better”
This is a simple, modern alternative.
Example:
“I know things feel overwhelming right now, but things will get better.”
It is common in everyday conversations.
5. “Nothing lasts forever”
This phrase highlights the temporary nature of both good and bad experiences.
Example:
“Remember, nothing lasts forever, so don’t lose hope.”
“This Too Shall Pass” vs Similar Expressions
Many English sayings share similar ideas, but their meanings are slightly different.
| Expression | Main Idea | Best Used For |
| This too shall pass | Difficult moments are temporary | Stress, sadness, challenges |
| Time heals all wounds | Pain becomes easier with time | Emotional recovery |
| Every cloud has a silver lining | Something positive can come from difficulty | Finding lessons |
| Nothing lasts forever | All situations change | General life advice |
| Stay strong | Encouragement and motivation | Supporting someone |
Understanding these differences helps you choose the right phrase for the right situation.
Common Mistakes When Using “This Too Shall Pass”
Even though the phrase is simple, people sometimes use it incorrectly.
Mistake 1: Using It to Ignore Someone’s Feelings
Saying “This too shall pass” immediately after someone shares pain can sometimes sound dismissive.
Incorrect:
“I lost someone important to me.”
“Don’t worry, this too shall pass.”
Better:
“I’m really sorry you’re going through this. It’s painful, but remember that this too shall pass.”
The difference is empathy.
The phrase works best when combined with understanding.
Mistake 2: Thinking It Means Problems Are Unimportant
The phrase does not mean:
- “Your feelings do not matter.”
- “Your problems are not serious.”
- “You should stop caring.”
Instead, it means:
“This situation matters, but it will not last forever.”
Mistake 3: Using It in the Wrong Tone
The phrase is usually thoughtful and comforting.
It may not fit situations where someone needs direct action.
For example, during a workplace emergency, saying “This too shall pass” may not help. A practical solution is more appropriate.
Mistake 4: Confusing It With “This Will Pass Quickly”
The expression does not promise that something will end immediately.
A difficult period may last:
- days
- months
- years
The meaning is that change will eventually happen.
Professional Ways to Use “This Too Shall Pass”
In professional communication, emotional phrases sometimes need a more polished tone.
Here are professional alternatives:
Instead of:
“Don’t worry, this too shall pass.”
You can write:
- “This is a temporary challenge.”
- “We will overcome this situation.”
- “Difficult periods require patience and persistence.”
- “This phase will eventually improve.”
- “Challenges are part of growth and progress.”
Example in a workplace email:
“Although this project has faced unexpected difficulties, we believe this challenge is temporary and we are working toward a solution.”
This keeps the message positive while maintaining professionalism.
Emotional and Psychological Meaning of the Phrase
The popularity of “This too shall pass” comes from its connection to emotional resilience.
Psychologically, the phrase encourages people to develop a wider perspective.
During stressful situations, people often feel as if the current moment will last forever.
For example:
- A failure feels permanent.
- A breakup feels impossible to overcome.
- A stressful period feels endless.
The phrase challenges that thinking.
It reminds people that:
- emotions change
- situations evolve
- people recover
- circumstances improve
This idea connects with concepts such as:
Resilience
The ability to recover after difficulties.
Patience
The ability to wait calmly during challenges.
Mindfulness
The practice of staying aware of the present moment without becoming overwhelmed.
Growth Mindset
The belief that challenges can lead to learning and improvement.
Real-Life Situations Where “This Too Shall Pass” Fits Naturally
During Exams or Academic Pressure
A student feeling overwhelmed might say:
“I have a lot of exams this month, but this too shall pass.”
The phrase helps maintain perspective.
During Career Problems
Someone experiencing workplace stress might think:
“This situation is difficult, but it is only one chapter of my career.”
During Personal Loss
During grief, people often use the phrase as a reminder that emotions change over time.
It does not erase sadness but provides hope.
During Major Life Changes
Life transitions such as moving, relationships, or personal transformation can feel uncertain.
The phrase reminds people that adjustment takes time.
Frequently Asked Questions About “This Too Shall Pass”
1. What is the exact meaning of “This too shall pass”?
“This too shall pass” means that the current situation, especially a difficult one, is temporary and will eventually change.
It encourages patience, hope, and emotional strength.
2. Is “This too shall pass” a quote?
Yes, it is commonly known as a quote or proverb. However, its exact historical origin is uncertain and is often linked to different traditions and stories.
3. Who originally said “This too shall pass”?
There is no confirmed original speaker. Many people associate it with stories about King Solomon, but historical evidence for a single origin is unclear.
4. Can I use “This too shall pass” in formal writing?
Yes, but use it carefully. In professional or academic writing, explaining the meaning may sound more appropriate.
Example:
“Difficult circumstances are temporary and can be overcome with time and effort.”
5. Is “This too shall pass” positive or negative?
It is generally a positive and hopeful expression. It acknowledges difficulty while reminding people that situations can improve.
6. What is another way to say “This too shall pass”?
Similar expressions include:
- “Nothing lasts forever.”
- “Things will get better.”
- “After the storm comes the calm.”
- “Time heals all wounds.”
7. Can “This too shall pass” apply to happiness too?
Yes. The deeper meaning applies to all experiences. Both difficult and joyful moments are temporary because life is always changing.
8. How do you use “This too shall pass” in a sentence?
Example:
“I’m going through a difficult time, but I remind myself that this too shall pass.”
9. Is “This too shall pass” a religious phrase?
The phrase appears in various cultural and philosophical traditions, but it is not limited to one religion. Many people use it as a general life philosophy.
10. Why is “This too shall pass” so popular?
Its popularity comes from its universal message. Everyone experiences change, struggle, and uncertainty, so the phrase feels meaningful across cultures.
Final Thoughts on “This Too Shall Pass”
“This too shall pass” is more than a simple sentence. It is a reminder about change, patience, and human strength.
The phrase teaches that difficult moments are part of life but not the definition of life. Problems may feel overwhelming in the present, yet time, effort, and perspective can create change.
Whether used as encouragement, personal motivation, or emotional support, this expression carries a timeless message:
No situation stays the same forever. Every chapter eventually turns.
Remembering this idea can help people face challenges with greater patience, hope, and resilience.
