It means that the person who is really your friend will be your friend no matter what trouble you're in. When you need them, they are your friend. The other kind of friend is called a "Fair Weather Friend," who only wants to be with you when everything is find.
The friend who shows up when you are in need--of comfort, money, support, whatever--is truly your friend, indeed (and in deed, or action)!
"A friend in need is a friend indeed"
The word you're looking for is friend. A friend in need is a friend in indeed.
"A friend in need is a friend indeed" is a common phrase that means a true friend helps out when you are in need or trouble, showing their loyalty and support.
"A friend in need is a friend indeed!"
A Friend in Need Is a Friend Indeed - 1909 was released on: USA: 8 June 1909
A Friend in Need Is a Friend Indeed - 1906 was released on: USA: 19 February 1906
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To put it exactly as it is meant to be understood. If you have a friend that will help you when you are in need of a friend then you truly have a friend. Often friends tend to evaporate when you need them.
Excerpt from The Phrase Finder: "A search of web-based material shows that 'a friend in need is a friend indeed' has about twice the public currency as 'a friend in need is a friend in deed'. Those who stand up for the latter are probably correct, but they will have a hard time changing the mind of the 'indeed' contingent." See the very interesting discussion of this phrase at the link provided below.
a friend indeed is a friend in need
History proves this is true. China has helped Pakistan in each and every time of need. As it is said "A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed" and China is a real friend of Pakistan.
Friends do care about each other. A friend in need is a friend indeed.