The phrase “every man for himself” has deep roots in English history. Its earliest known appearance is in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Knight’s Tale (late 14th century), where he wrote “Ech man for him-self, ther is non other.” This conveyed the idea of individuals prioritizing their own survival or interests over collective responsibility. By the 16th century, the fuller proverb “Every man for himself and the Devil take the hindmost” was in circulation, emphasizing ruthless self-preservation in times of danger or competition. The expression became popular in contexts of escape, conflict, or scarcity, where helping others might jeopardize one’s own safety. Over time, it evolved into a broader cultural cliché symbolizing individualism and the abandonment of cooperation when stakes are high. Its endurance reflects both the darker side of human nature and the pragmatic instinct to survive.
Yes, each person does what is best for himself or herself. Yes, times are getting tougher. I think you, my dear readers, know what I am talking about. No reason to list everything again. Sometimes, there is no team spirit in this office; it’s definitely every man for himself. Neighbors would tell each other: mind your own business. The tone between us humans is becoming more and more harsher.
Some people live alone because friends and families have abandoned them. Important helpline is Psalm 27:10 for them. “When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take care of me.”
And solitary survivors like Robinson Crusoe, or the hero in the movie Castaway, fascinate. But the loner is someone who purposely holds himself aloof, like the Unabomber, Mathematician Ted Kaczynski. People doggedly moving ever farther away from one another constitute hell in C.S. Lewis’ book, The Great Divorce.
Fact is – Proverbs 18:1 says: A man who isolates himself seeks his own desires; he rages against all wise judgment.
Living in community and helping one another is foundational for all who wish to follow Christ. We know from Acts 2 that the early church took this seriously, seeing many examples of believers helping one another, including materially, so that there would be no one in need within their group.
Much has been written about the benefits of strong relationships. I wrote about it at this corner several years ago. People are healthier, live longer, and are generally happier if they have strong friendships beneficial for helping and encouraging each other. And let me repeat it – especially during these tough times … .
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