King James Version
What Does Job 5:6 Mean?
“Although affliction cometh not forth of the dust, neither doth trouble spring out of the ground; affliction: or, iniquity”
Context
4
His children are far from safety, and they are crushed in the gate, neither is there any to deliver them.
5
Whose harvest the hungry eateth up, and taketh it even out of the thorns, and the robber swalloweth up their substance.
6
Although affliction cometh not forth of the dust, neither doth trouble spring out of the ground; affliction: or, iniquity
7
Yet man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward. trouble: or, labour sparks: Heb. the sons of the burning coal lift up to fly
8
I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause:
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(6, 7) **Although affliction. . . .**—These two verses are confessedly very difficult. It is hard to see also the connection between sparks flying upwards and man’s being born to trouble. It seems to give better sense if we understand Eliphaz comparing man’s lot as prepared for him by God with his own pride and presumptuous ambition. Man is born to labour, but, like sparks of fire, he makes high his flight. Trouble and toil is no accidental growth, but a lot appointed by God, which would be beneficial if man did not thwart it by his own pride. They lift themselves up and soar on high like sparks of fire with daring and presumptuous conduct, and so bring on themselves condign punishment. The same word means *trouble *and *toil, *and it may be understood in the two consecutive verses in these cognate, but slightly different, senses. It would be no consolation to Job to tell him that man was born to trouble; besides, it is a sentiment more likely to proceed from the patient himself than from the spectator.
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 5:6 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 5:6
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge