King James Version

What Does Job 14:21 Mean?

His sons come to honour, and he knoweth it not; and they are brought low, but he perceiveth it not of them.

Context

19

The waters wear the stones: thou washest away the things which grow out of the dust of the earth; and thou destroyest the hope of man. washest: Heb. overflowest

20

Thou prevailest for ever against him, and he passeth: thou changest his countenance, and sendest him away.

21

His sons come to honour, and he knoweth it not; and they are brought low, but he perceiveth it not of them.

22

But his flesh upon him shall have pain, and his soul within him shall mourn.

Commentary

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**7. In the first month ... they cast Pur, that is, the lot--**In resorting to this method of ascertaining the most auspicious day for putting his atrocious scheme into execution, Haman acted as the kings and nobles of Persia have always done, never engaging in any enterprise without consulting the astrologers, and being satisfied as to the lucky hour. Vowing revenge but scorning to lay hands on a single victim, he meditated the extirpation of the whole Jewish race, who, he knew, were sworn enemies of his countrymen; and by artfully representing them as a people who were aliens in manners and habits, and enemies to the rest of his subjects, he procured the king's sanction of the intended massacre. One motive which he used in urging his point was addressed to the king's cupidity. Fearing lest his master might object that the extermination of a numerous body of his subjects would seriously depress the public revenue, Haman promised to make up the loss.

Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Job. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Job 14:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Job 14:21

Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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