King James Version

What Does Job 15:27 Mean?

Job 15:27 in the King James Version says “Because he covereth his face with his fatness, and maketh collops of fat on his flanks.” — study this verse from Job chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Because he covereth his face with his fatness, and maketh collops of fat on his flanks.”

Job 15:27 · KJV

Context

25

For he stretcheth out his hand against God, and strengtheneth himself against the Almighty.

26

He runneth upon him, even on his neck, upon the thick bosses of his bucklers:

27

Because he covereth his face with his fatness, and maketh collops of fat on his flanks.

28

And he dwelleth in desolate cities, and in houses which no man inhabiteth, which are ready to become heaps.

29

He shall not be rich, neither shall his substance continue, neither shall he prolong the perfection thereof upon the earth.

Read Job 15 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The wicked indulge in prosperity: 'Because he covereth his face with his fatness, and maketh collops of fat on his flanks.' This describes self-indulgent wealth—the wicked grow fat through greed and excess. 'Collops' (folds) of fat suggest repulsive over-indulgence. In ancient context where most lived subsistence-level, such obesity indicated both wealth and moral failure (lack of self-control, ignoring the poor). Eliphaz implies Job's former prosperity indicated such moral failure.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient Near Eastern cultures viewed obesity differently than modern societies—it could indicate wealth and success but also moral failure in not sharing with the poor. Prophets condemned the self-indulgent wealthy (Amos 6:4-6).

Reflection Questions

  1. How does prosperity tempt toward self-indulgence and away from generosity?
  2. What is the Christian's responsibility regarding wealth—both enjoying God's gifts and sharing with others?
  3. How do we avoid both the prosperity gospel and knee-jerk suspicion of all wealth?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
כִּֽי1 of 8
H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

כִסָּ֣ה2 of 8

“Because he covereth”

H3680

properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)

פָנָ֣יו3 of 8

“his face”

H6440

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

בְּחֶלְבּ֑וֹ4 of 8

“with his fatness”

H2459

fat, whether literally or figuratively; hence, the richest or choice part

וַיַּ֖עַשׂ5 of 8

“and maketh”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

פִּימָ֣ה6 of 8

“collops of fat”

H6371

obesity

עֲלֵי7 of 8
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

כָֽסֶל׃8 of 8

“on his flanks”

H3689

properly, fatness, i.e., by implication (literally) the loin (as the seat of the leaf fat) or (generally) the viscera; also (figuratively) silliness o

Study Guide

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 15:27 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 15:27 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 17:10Psalms 73:7Jeremiah 5:28Isaiah 6:10Deuteronomy 32:15Job 17:10

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