Ecclesiastes 8:4

Where the word of a king is, there is power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?

Cross-references

1 Kings 2:25 Historical context

1 Kings 2:25 shows Solomon's word carried out instantly in Adonijah's execution, exemplifying the king's supreme command.

1 Kings 2:29–34 Historical context

1 Kings 2:29-34 recounts Solomon ordering Joab's death, another clear demonstration of the king's word being final.

1 Kings 2:46 Historical context

1 Kings 2:46 records Shimei's execution by Solomon's order, reinforcing the king's absolute authority over life.

Job 33:13 Parallel

In Job 33:13, God gives no account of his matters — parallels the king's unaccountability in Ecclesiastes.

Job 34:18 Parallel

In Job 34:18, it asks if it's fitting to call a king wicked — directly echoes the idea that one cannot question a king.

Luke 12:5 Contrast

In Luke 12:5, Jesus redirects fear to God who casts into hell — directly contrasts the earthly king's authority.

Romans 9:20 Parallel

In Romans 9:20, Paul uses potter/clay — no one questions God, paralleling the king's unquestionable word.

In 1 Chronicles 21:4, 'the king's word prevailed' — same phrase illustrating the irresistible power of a king's command.

Job 34:19 Parallel

In Job 34:19, 'how much less to him' extends the logic: if you can't question a human king, even less can you question God.

In 2 Samuel 24:4, the king's word prevails over Joab's objections — a direct example of the king's power to command.

In Romans 13:1-4, Paul affirms governing authorities as God's servants — parallel recognition of king's power with divine purpose.

Proverbs 19:12 compares a king's wrath to a lion's roar, highlighting the fear his power inspires.

Proverbs 20:2 similarly warns that provoking a king forfeits life, underscoring the danger of opposing royal authority.