A house divided against itself cannot stand

Definitions

• unity and cooperation
  Emphasizes the importance of working together and remaining united in order to achieve a common goal or purpose. Can also imply the idea of strength in numbers, as a divided group is more vulnerable and weaker.

• vulnerability and weakness
  Suggests that when a group or organization is divided and in conflict, it is more susceptible to failure and collapse. Can also be used to caution against internal strife and division within a group.

• warning against internal conflict
  To caution against fighting or disagreement within a group or organization. Can be used to encourage finding common ground and resolving conflicts peacefully in order to prevent the group from falling apart.

Examples of A house divided against itself cannot stand

• In order to succeed as a team, we cannot allow internal conflicts and differences to weaken our unity. As the saying goes, "A house divided against itself cannot stand." We must work together cohesively to achieve our common goal.

  The idiom "A house divided against itself cannot stand" implies that a group or organization cannot function properly when there are significant disagreements or divisions within it. It suggests that internal disputes and conflicts can destabilize the harmony and cohesion necessary for success. This phrase originated from Abraham Lincoln's speech during his presidential campaign in 1858.

• The company's recent merger has created a contentious environment, with each division vying for resources and influence. If this division continues, it could spell disaster for the company's future, as it would be a recipe for failure - "A house divided against itself cannot stand."

  The use of this idiom in this context implies that the company's divisions must put aside their differences and work collaboratively towards a common goal, as internal conflict can hinder progress and lead to instability. It emphasizes the need for unity and cooperation among departments or teams within an organization to increase success.

• The current political climate is rife with division and discord, with each political group or factions vying for power and influence. The result is a country that appears 'divided against itself,' with no clear direction or consensus. It's a situation that is unsustainable, and one that could lead to unintended consequences.

  This idiom is used to highlight the consequences of a society that is divided amongst itself. When a nation is split between opposing factions, it can lead to political instability, social unrest, and other issues that undermine the country's progress. This idiom serves as a warning against the dangers of division, encouraging people to strive for unity and harmony instead.

• Throughout history, many countries have fallen because of internal divisions and conflicts. Just look at the Roman Empire - "A house divided against itself cannot stand."

  This idiom in this context highlights the past failures of nations that experienced internal division. It serves as a cautionary tale, warning modern societies and organizations of the danger of division and conflict. It emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation for the long-term success and survival of any group or organization.

• The government's decision to prioritize the needs of one region over others has created a divided nation. As the saying goes, "A house divided against itself cannot stand."

  This idiom is used to describe how division and conflict within a group or organization can lead to its eventual downfall. Just as a physical house cannot remain standing if it is split in two, a country or government cannot survive if it is split by internal divisions or conflicts.

• The constant infighting among members of the soccer team is harming their chances of success. They must put aside their differences and work together, lest they become "A house divided against itself."

  Again, this idiom is used to illustrate the potential consequences of division and conflict. In this case, it is being applied to a sports team, but the idea is the same: division and infighting can lead to a team's downfall.

• Sarah's family has been torn apart by their differing political opinions. Her father and brother are ardent supporters of a particular candidate, while Sarah herself is fiercely opposed. Sarah has said that "A house divided against itself cannot stand," as the family's internal conflict has created an uncomfortable and unhappy home life.

  Here, the idiom is being used to describe the impact of political divides at the personal level. Sarah's family's division over politics is causing tension and conflict, which is damaging their relationship with one another.

• The ongoing feud between two rival organizations has led to a wasteful and destructive conflict. As the saying goes, "A house divided against itself cannot stand." It is time for both parties to realize that their animosity towards each other is only hurting themselves and to work together for the greater good.

  This example uses the idiom to inspire a call to action. It is being used to encourage two organizations that are divided against each other to come together and work towards a common goal, instead of continuing to waste time and resources on a destructive conflict.

Conclusion

The idiom "a house divided against itself cannot stand" is often used to emphasize the importance of unity and cooperation in achieving success. It also highlights the vulnerability and weakness that comes with division and internal conflict. It serves as a warning against fighting and encourages finding common ground to prevent failure and collapse.

In a broader sense, this idiom can also be applied to societies and nations, emphasizing the importance of unity and harmony in order to thrive and progress. It reminds us that a divided nation or society will struggle to stand strong and face challenges.

Origin of "A house divided against itself cannot stand"

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the Bible, specifically in the New Testament in the book of Mark. In chapter 3, verse 25, Jesus says, "If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand." This statement was made in response to accusations that Jesus was casting out demons with the help of Satan.

The phrase was later popularized by Abraham Lincoln in his famous speech during the 1858 Illinois Senate campaign. He used it to express his concern about the growing division between the Northern and Southern states over the issue of slavery. He believed that a divided nation would not be able to survive and that unity was essential for progress and success.

Today, this idiom continues to be used in various contexts to emphasize the importance of unity and cooperation in achieving success and avoiding failure. Its timeless message serves as a reminder to individuals, groups, and even nations to strive for unity and harmony.