Old Testament
Job 14:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And surely the mountain falling comes to nothing, and the rock is removed out of its place.
Compare translations
And surely the mountain falling cometh to nought, and the rock is removed out of his place.
What Job 14:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job reflects on the transient nature of the world and the inevitability of change. The imagery of a mountain falling and a rock being moved signifies that even the most stable and seemingly permanent things can be altered or destroyed. Job is expressing a sense of despair, recognizing that life is fragile and that what we consider unshakeable can be brought low. This highlights the theme of human vulnerability in the face of life's uncertainties. Job's contemplation serves as a reminder that while we may strive for stability, the reality is that change is a constant part of existence. The verse encourages readers to acknowledge the impermanence of life and the need for resilience in the face of adversity.
How to apply Job 14:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the impermanence of our circumstances. When faced with challenges, we should remember that change is a part of life. Embracing this reality can help us develop resilience and adaptability, allowing us to navigate difficulties with a stronger mindset.
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 14:18
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 14:18
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 14:18 mean?
Job 14:18 reflects on the idea that even the strongest and most stable things, like mountains and rocks, can change or be destroyed. It emphasizes the fragility of life and the inevitability of change.
What is the meaning of 'mountain falling' in Job 14:18?
The phrase 'mountain falling' symbolizes the collapse of what seems permanent and unshakeable. It illustrates the theme of transience and the reality that nothing in life is guaranteed to remain the same.
How does Job 14:18 relate to human experience?
Job 14:18 relates to human experience by highlighting our vulnerability in the face of life's uncertainties. It serves as a reminder that change is constant and encourages resilience when facing challenges.
What themes are present in Job 14:18?
The themes present in Job 14:18 include transience, change, vulnerability, and resilience. The verse underscores the idea that life is fragile and that we must adapt to the changes we encounter.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.