King James Version
Job 4:17 in the King James Version says “Shall mortal man be more just than God? shall a man be more pure than his maker?” — study this verse from Job chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Shall mortal man be more just than God? shall a man be more pure than his maker?”
Job 4:17 · KJV
Then a spirit passed before my face; the hair of my flesh stood up:
It stood still, but I could not discern the form thereof: an image was before mine eyes, there was silence, and I heard a voice, saying, there: or, I heard a still voice
Shall mortal man be more just than God? shall a man be more pure than his maker?
Behold, he put no trust in his servants; and his angels he charged with folly: and his: or, nor in his angels, in whom he put light
How much less in them that dwell in houses of clay, whose foundation is in the dust, which are crushed before the moth?
KJV Study — Public Domain
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
“be more pure”
H2891to be pure (physical sound, clear, unadulterated; levitically, uncontaminated; morally, innocent or holy)
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 4:17 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 4:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge