Job 15:25 (KJV)

What does Job 15:25 mean?

Job 15:25 describes a person who boldly opposes God, reaching out his hand in defiance and making himself strong against the Almighty. The verse paints a picture of someone acting with pride and resistance toward God’s authority.

In this part of the book, Eliphaz is speaking to Job, warning about the fate of the wicked. Eliphaz claims that those who challenge God—by stretching out their hand against Him and trying to strengthen themselves—are acting arrogantly and will face consequences. The verse uses strong language to show the seriousness of rebelling against God.

The Hebrew behind Job 15:25

• "Out" (נָטָה, natah): This word means to stretch out or extend, often with a sense of deliberate action. Here, it emphasizes the active choice to oppose God, not just a passive attitude.
• "Hand" (יָד, yad): In Hebrew, the hand often symbolizes power or action. Stretching out the hand against God suggests a direct challenge or act of rebellion.
• "God" (אֵל, El): This is a general term for God, highlighting His strength and might, which makes the act of opposition even more striking.
• "Strengtheneth" (גָּבַר, gavar): This word means to make oneself strong or to act with force. The verse shows the person not just resisting, but actively trying to become strong enough to stand against God.
• "Almighty" (שַׁדַּי, Shaddai): This name for God stresses His all-powerful nature, underscoring the futility and arrogance of trying to oppose Him.

Why Job 15:25 matters

• Job 15:25 clarifies that the focus is on deliberate, prideful opposition to God, not just ordinary human weakness or doubt.
• The verse highlights Eliphaz’s view that rebellion against God is not just foolish but also dangerous, setting up the argument that such defiance leads to downfall.
• Understanding the original words shows that the actions described are intentional and forceful, not accidental or minor, which deepens the warning Eliphaz is giving.