King James Version

What Does Job 29:18 Mean?

“Then I said, I shall die in my nest, and I shall multiply my days as the sand.”

Context

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

And I brake the jaws of the wicked, and plucked the spoil out of his teeth. the jaws: Heb. the jawteeth, or, the grinders plucked: Heb. cast

Then I said, I shall die in my nest, and I shall multiply my days as the sand.

My root was spread out by the waters, and the dew lay all night upon my branch. spread: Heb. opened

My glory was fresh in me, and my bow was renewed in my hand. fresh: Heb. new renewed: Heb. changed

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(18) **I shall die in my nest.**—Very touching is this spontaneous expression of his almost unconscious hope when in prosperity. Some have suggested the transposition of these three verses to the end of the chapter. Though this is obviously their natural position in one sense, yet in another it is less natural. The same thing is to be seen in the last four verses of chapter 31. They carry on the previous vindication from Job 31:34, which had been broken by the parenthesis in Job 31:35-37.

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 29:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.