Job 19:18 (KJV)

What does Job 19:18 mean?

Job 19:18 describes how even young children looked down on Job and spoke against him when he stood up. The verse shows that Job’s suffering was so complete that he lost respect not only from adults but also from the youngest members of society.

In this verse, Job is speaking to his friends, describing the depth of his humiliation and isolation. Job’s situation is so dire that even those who would normally be expected to show respect—children—now openly despise and insult him. This detail highlights just how far Job’s reputation and dignity have fallen during his trials.

The Hebrew behind Job 19:18

• The word for "children" is עוּלִים (ʿulîm), which refers specifically to very young boys or children. This emphasizes how low Job’s status has sunk, since even the least significant members of society feel free to scorn him.
• The word "despised" is מָאַס (maʾas), meaning to reject or treat with contempt. The use of this word shows that the disrespect is not just casual but a deliberate rejection.
• The word "arose" is קוּם (qum), which means to stand up or rise. Here, it may suggest that even when Job tries to assert himself or simply stand, he is met with disrespect.
• The word "spake" is דָּבַר (dabar), which means to speak or talk. In this context, it suggests that the children are not just ignoring Job but are actively speaking against him.

Why Job 19:18 matters

• This verse clears up any idea that Job’s suffering was only physical or emotional; it extended to a complete loss of social standing, even among children.
• The detail about children despising Job emphasizes the total reversal of his former dignity and honor, making his isolation even more striking.
• Job 19:18 connects to the wider passage by showing that Job’s alienation was thorough—he was rejected by all levels of society, not just his peers or family.