King James Version
What Does Job 27:16 Mean?
“Though he heap up silver as the dust, and prepare raiment as the clay;”
Context
14
If his children be multiplied, it is for the sword: and his offspring shall not be satisfied with bread.
15
Those that remain of him shall be buried in death: and his widows shall not weep.
16
Though he heap up silver as the dust, and prepare raiment as the clay;
17
He may prepare it, but the just shall put it on, and the innocent shall divide the silver.
18
He buildeth his house as a moth, and as a booth that the keeper maketh.
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**4. If--**Rather, "Since thy children have sinned against Him, and (since) He has cast them away (Hebrew, by the hand of) for their transgressions, (yet) if thou wouldst seek unto God, &c., if thou wert pure, &c., surely [even] now He would awake for thee." Umbreit makes the apodosis to, "since thy children," &c., begin at "He has cast them away." Also, instead of "for," "He gave them up to (literally, into the hand of) their own guilt." Bildad expresses the justice of God, which Job had arraigned. Thy children have sinned; God leaves them to the consequence of their sin; most cutting to the heart of the bereaved father.
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 27:16 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 27:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge