proverb · Legacy record
Steel is strong. Flesh is stronger. Will is strongest.
Steel is strong. Flesh is stronger. Will is strongest.
Historical period not yet established
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Steel, flesh and will ranked in increasing strength elevate determination above physical materials. The saying praises resolve through an exaggerated comparison.
What the words are saying
This is a value image rather than a literal strength test. A responsible reading does not imply that willpower removes bodily limits or protects someone from injury. Resolve can include seeking support, resting or choosing a different aim rather than forcing endurance.
Everyday example
Someone stays committed to a manageable goal and adjusts the effort when their capacity changes.
When to use it
Use it to discuss resolve with physical limits respected.
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What it does not mean
No physical invulnerability or ability to overcome every limit through will is established.
Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
Mongolia
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin.- Historical period
- Historical period not yet established
No sufficiently supported historical placement has been established. Import and download dates are not treated as composition dates. - Recorded source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference (2014 AD)
Supplied reference B; unit 417; PDF page 40; collection label: Mongolia
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.
- Culture
- Mongolia