Old Testament
Job 14:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble.
Compare translations
Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.
What Job 14:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job reflects on the human condition, emphasizing the brevity and challenges of life. He notes that every person, born of a woman, experiences a life that is short and often filled with difficulties. This statement captures the essence of human existence, highlighting the inevitability of suffering and the transient nature of life. Job's words resonate with the universal experience of facing hardships, suggesting that trouble is a common aspect of the human journey. This perspective invites readers to consider the fragility of life and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Job's lament serves as a reminder that while life may be fleeting and fraught with challenges, it is also a shared experience that connects all humanity. Ultimately, this verse sets the stage for deeper reflections on suffering, hope, and the search for meaning in the midst of life's trials.
How to apply Job 14:1 to your life
This verse encourages us to acknowledge the struggles we face in life while also recognizing that they are a shared human experience. By understanding the transient nature of our days, we can cultivate resilience and seek support from others during tough times, fostering a sense of community and compassion.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Job 14:1
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Job 14:1
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Job
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 14:1 mean?
Job 14:1 reflects on the human experience, stating that life is short and often filled with troubles. It emphasizes the inevitability of suffering and the fleeting nature of existence.
What is the meaning of 'born of a woman' in Job 14:1?
The phrase 'born of a woman' in Job 14:1 signifies all of humanity, highlighting that every person shares the same condition of being mortal and facing life's challenges.
How does Job 14:1 relate to human suffering?
Job 14:1 directly addresses human suffering by acknowledging that life is often filled with trouble. It serves as a reminder that struggles are a universal aspect of the human journey.
What themes are present in Job 14:1?
Key themes in Job 14:1 include human suffering, the brevity of life, resilience, and the shared experience of adversity. These themes encourage reflection on the nature of existence and the importance of community support.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.