14 "What are mortals, that they could be pure, or those born of woman, that they could be righteous?

Other Translations of Job 15:14

King James Version

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

English Standard Version

14 What is man, that he can be pure? Or he who is born of a woman, that he can be righteous?

The Message

14 Do you think it's possible for any mere mortal to be sinless in God's sight, for anyone born of a human mother to get it all together?

New King James Version

14 "What is man, that he could be pure? And he who is born of a woman, that he could be righteous?

New Living Translation

14 Can any mortal be pure? Can anyone born of a woman be just?

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 15:14

Commentary on Job 15:1-16

(Read Job 15:1-16)

Eliphaz begins a second attack upon Job, instead of being softened by his complaints. He unjustly charges Job with casting off the fear of God, and all regard to him, and restraining prayer. See in what religion is summed up, fearing God, and praying to him; the former the most needful principle, the latter the most needful practice. Eliphaz charges Job with self-conceit. He charges him with contempt of the counsels and comforts given him by his friends. We are apt to think that which we ourselves say is important, when others, with reason, think little of it. He charges him with opposition to God. Eliphaz ought not to have put harsh constructions upon the words of one well known for piety, and now in temptation. It is plain that these disputants were deeply convinced of the doctrine of original sin, and the total depravity of human nature. Shall we not admire the patience of God in bearing with us? and still more his love to us in the redemption of Christ Jesus his beloved Son?