Phrase Finder

A house divided against itself cannot stand

What's the meaning of the phrase 'A house divided against itself cannot stand'?

Literal meaning (house meaning household).

What's the origin of the phrase 'A house divided against itself cannot stand'?

From the Bible, Matthew 12:25 (King James Version):

“And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand”.

See also: the List of Proverbs.

Related phrases and meanings

Browse more Phrases

About the Author

Gary Martin is a writer and researcher on the origins of phrases and the creator of the Phrase Finder website. Over the past 26 years more than 700 million of his pages have been downloaded by readers. He is one of the most popular and trusted sources of information on phrases and idioms.

Gary Martin

Writer and researcher on the origins of phrases and the creator of the Phrase Finder website. Over the past 26 years more than 700 million of his pages have been downloaded by readers. He is one of the most popular and trusted sources of information on phrases and idioms.
A house divided against itself cannot stand

Phrases & Meanings

A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T UV W XYZ

Categories

American Animals Australian Bible Body Colour Conflict Death Devil Dogs Emotions Euphemism Family Fashion Food French Horses ‘Jack’ Luck Money Military Music Names Nature Nautical Numbers Politics Religion Shakespeare Stupidity Entertainment Weather Women Work

How did we do?

Have you spotted something that needs updated on this page? We review all feedback we receive to ensure that we provide the most accurate and up to date information on phrases.

Suggest a new meaning