Old Testament
Job 14:19
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The waters wear the stones; you wash away the things that grow out of the dust of the earth; and you destroy the hope of man.
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The waters wear the stones: thou washest away the things which grow out of the dust of the earth; and thou destroyest the hope of man.
What Job 14:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job reflects on the relentless power of nature and its ability to erode even the hardest stones over time. He draws a parallel between this natural process and the fragility of human hope. Just as water gradually wears down stones, the struggles and hardships of life can diminish a person's hope and spirit. Job is expressing a deep sense of despair, feeling that despite the resilience of life, the inevitable suffering can lead to a loss of hope. This verse highlights the transient nature of human existence and the challenges that can overshadow our aspirations and dreams. It serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of life, where even the strongest hopes can be washed away by the trials we face. Job's lamentation captures the essence of human vulnerability in the face of life's adversities, emphasizing the need for understanding and compassion in times of suffering.
How to apply Job 14:19 to your life
This verse encourages us to acknowledge the struggles that can erode our hope. In times of difficulty, it is important to seek support from others and to find ways to restore our hope. Engaging in community and spiritual practices can help us rebuild our resilience.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Keep studying Job 14:19
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 14:19 mean?
Job 14:19 reflects on how nature, specifically water, can gradually erode stones, symbolizing how life's hardships can diminish human hope. Job expresses a deep sense of despair, suggesting that despite life's resilience, suffering can lead to a loss of hope.
What is the meaning of 'destroy the hope of man' in Job 14:19?
The phrase 'destroy the hope of man' in Job 14:19 indicates that just as water wears away stones, life's struggles can erode a person's hope and spirit. It emphasizes the fragility of human aspirations in the face of adversity.
How does Job 14:19 relate to human suffering?
Job 14:19 relates to human suffering by illustrating how the relentless trials of life can wear down our hopes, much like water erodes stones. It serves as a reminder of the vulnerability we face in difficult times.
What themes are present in Job 14:19?
The themes present in Job 14:19 include human suffering, the fragility of hope, the power of nature, despair, and the transient nature of life. These themes highlight the challenges we face and the impact they have on our aspirations.
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