King James Version
Job 22:2 in the King James Version says “Can a man be profitable unto God, as he that is wise may be profitable unto himself? as he: or, if he may be profitable,...” — study this verse from Job chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Can a man be profitable unto God, as he that is wise may be profitable unto himself? as he: or, if he may be profitable, doth his good success depend thereon?”
Job 22:2 · KJV
Then Eliphaz the Temanite answered and said,
Can a man be profitable unto God, as he that is wise may be profitable unto himself? as he: or, if he may be profitable, doth his good success depend thereon?
Is it any pleasure to the Almighty, that thou art righteous? or is it gain to him, that thou makest thy ways perfect?
Will he reprove thee for fear of thee? will he enter with thee into judgment?
KJV Study — Public Domain
“unto God”
H410strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
“be profitable”
H5532to be familiar with; by implication, to minister to, be serviceable to, to cherish, be customary
“as”
H3588(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“be profitable”
H5532to be familiar with; by implication, to minister to, be serviceable to, to cherish, be customary
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
“he that is wise”
H7919to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent
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 22:2 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 22:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge