Old Testament
Job 4:21
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Does not their greatness disappear? They die, even without wisdom.
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Doth not their excellency which is in them go away? they die, even without wisdom.
What Job 4:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 4:21, the speaker reflects on the fleeting nature of human greatness and wisdom. The verse suggests that no matter how esteemed or powerful a person may be, their life is temporary, and they ultimately face death. The phrase 'even without wisdom' implies that even those who lack understanding or insight still meet the same fate as the wise. This serves as a reminder that earthly achievements and status are transient, and wisdom alone does not guarantee a longer life or escape from mortality. The verse encourages humility and recognition of our limitations as human beings, emphasizing that true value lies not in our accomplishments but in our relationship with God and understanding of life’s deeper truths.
How to apply Job 4:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our priorities and the pursuit of wisdom. Instead of chasing after status or material success, we should focus on cultivating a deeper understanding of life and our relationship with God. Embracing humility can lead to a more meaningful existence.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Eliphaz Speaks First (Job 4:1–5:27)
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Job
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying Job 4:21
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 4:21 mean?
Job 4:21 reflects on the temporary nature of human greatness and wisdom, stating that regardless of a person's status or intelligence, they ultimately face death. It emphasizes that earthly achievements are fleeting and that wisdom does not prevent mortality.
What is the meaning of 'even without wisdom' in Job 4:21?
The phrase 'even without wisdom' in Job 4:21 suggests that both the wise and the unwise meet the same fate in death. It highlights that wisdom does not guarantee a longer life or immunity from mortality.
How does Job 4:21 relate to humility?
Job 4:21 encourages humility by reminding us that no matter how great we think we are, we all face death. It suggests that true worth comes from understanding our limitations and our relationship with God.
What themes are present in Job 4:21?
The themes in Job 4:21 include human mortality, the fleeting nature of greatness, the importance of wisdom and understanding, humility, and the transience of life. These themes encourage reflection on what truly matters in life.
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