King James Version
Job 15:14 in the King James Version says “What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous?” — study this verse from Job chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous?”
Job 15:14 · KJV
Why doth thine heart carry thee away? and what do thy eyes wink at,
That thou turnest thy spirit against God, and lettest such words go out of thy mouth?
What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous?
Behold, he putteth no trust in his saints; yea, the heavens are not clean in his sight.
How much more abominable and filthy is man, which drinketh iniquity like water?
KJV Study — Public Domain
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
“What is man”
H582properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“that he should be righteous”
H6663to be (causatively, make) right (in a moral or forensic sense)
“and he which is born”
H3205to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
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.
Job 15:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Job 15:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge