King James Version

What Does Job 29:14 Mean?

“I put on righteousness, and it clothed me: my judgment was as a robe and a diadem.”

Context

Because I delivered the poor that cried, and the fatherless, and him that had none to help him.

The blessing of him that was ready to perish came upon me: and I caused the widow's heart to sing for joy.

I put on righteousness, and it clothed me: my judgment was as a robe and a diadem.

I was eyes to the blind, and feet was I to the lame.

I was a father to the poor: and the cause which I knew not I searched out.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(14) **I put on righteousness.**—Comp. Isaiah 61:10; Isaiah 28:5; Isaiah 62:3; 2Timothy 4:8; James 1:12; 1Peter 5:4; 1Thessalonians 2:19. His judgment, the result of his personal righteousness, was as a robe of honour and a crown of glory to him. **It** **clothed me.**—Literally, *it clothed itself with me. *First, righteousness is the garment, and then he is the garment to righteousness. (Compare the expressions “Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ,” Romans 13:14, and 2Corinthians 5:2-4, and the Hebrew of Psalm 143:9, where “I flee unto thee to hide me” is, *I have covered myself with thee, *or, *have hidden me with thee.*) This is the Gospel truth of the interchange of sin and righteousness between Christ and the believer. He bears our sins; we are clothed with the robe of His righteousness.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). 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 29:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.