King James Version
What Does Job 4:19 Mean?
“How much less in them that dwell in houses of clay, whose foundation is in the dust, which are crushed before the moth?”
Context
17
Shall mortal man be more just than God? shall a man be more pure than his maker?
18
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
19
How much less in them that dwell in houses of clay, whose foundation is in the dust, which are crushed before the moth?
20
They are destroyed from morning to evening: they perish for ever without any regarding it. destroyed: Heb. beaten in pieces
21
Doth not their excellency which is in them go away? they die, even without wisdom.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(19) **Houses of clay.**—This may perhaps contain an allusion to Genesis 11:3.
**Are crushed before the moth?**—That is to say, are so frail that even the moth destroys them.
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 4:19 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 4:19
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge