Job 15:14

What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous?

Job 15:14 (KJV)

Context

These words come from Eliphaz, one of Job’s friends, during his second speech to the suffering patriarch. Eliphaz is convinced that Job’s afflictions must be punishment for hidden sin, and he presses this point with a rhetorical question. The question assumes that no human being can be truly clean or righteous before God.

Meaning

The phrase “born of a woman” emphasizes human frailty and creatureliness. Eliphaz is not speaking of one particular person but of the whole human condition. His question is rhetorical: the expected answer is that no one is clean or righteous by nature. This echoes the broader biblical teaching that all people are fallen and in need of divine mercy.

Biblical connections

The verse connects with the New Testament revelation that righteousness cannot be achieved by human effort. Romans 3:23 confirms that all have sinned, and 2 Corinthians 5:21 shows that Christ, who was sinless, became sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God. The language of being born in sin also recalls Psalm 51:5, where David acknowledges his sinful nature from birth. While Psalm 8:4 asks “What is man?” in wonder at human honor, Job 15:14 uses the same question to highlight human unworthiness before a holy God.

Application

Eliphaz recognized human sinfulness but lacked compassion toward Job. This reminds believers to approach others with humility, acknowledging their own shortcomings and their dependence on God’s grace rather than hastily judging or condemning. True cleanliness and righteousness come only through God’s intervention, grace, and mercy.

Reflection

Although the book of Job predates the incarnation, this verse points to humanity’s universal need for a Savior. Since no one born of a woman can be righteous on their own, righteousness must come from outside oneself. Jesus Christ, born of a woman yet sinless, offers forgiveness, cleansing, and the gift of righteousness to all who believe. This verse serves as a sobering reminder of human sin and the absolute necessity of God’s mercy.