King James Version
What Does Job 31:14 Mean?
“What then shall I do when God riseth up? and when he visiteth, what shall I answer him?”
Context
12
For it is a fire that consumeth to destruction, and would root out all mine increase.
13
If I did despise the cause of my manservant or of my maidservant, when they contended with me;
14
What then shall I do when God riseth up? and when he visiteth, what shall I answer him?
15
Did not he that made me in the womb make him? and did not one fashion us in the womb? did not one: or, did he not fashion us in one womb?
16
If I have withheld the poor from their desire, or have caused the eyes of the widow to fail;
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary6. Job shows that the matter of fact opposes Zophar's theory (Job 11:14, 19, 20) that wickedness causes insecurity in men's "tabernacles." On the contrary, they who rob the "tabernacles" ("dwellings") of others "prosper securely" in their own.
**into whose hand, &c.--**rather, "who make a god of their own hand," that is, who regard their might as their only ruling principle [Umbreit].
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 31:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Job 31:14
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge