Job 6:14 (KJV)

What does Job 6:14 mean?

Job 6:14 says that when someone is suffering, a true friend should show kindness and compassion, but instead, Job feels that his friends have abandoned the respect and reverence due to God. The verse highlights the importance of loyalty and mercy from friends, especially during times of deep distress.

In this verse, Job is speaking to his friends after they have criticized him rather than comforted him in his suffering. Job points out that their lack of pity is not just a failure of friendship but also a failure to honor God, since showing compassion is part of fearing the Almighty. The verse underscores Job’s sense of betrayal and his belief that genuine friendship reflects godly character.

The Hebrew behind Job 6:14

• The word "afflicted" (מָס H4523, mas) refers to someone who is weak, despairing, or melting away, emphasizing the depth of Job’s suffering and vulnerability.
• "Pity" (חֶסֶד H2617, chesed) is a rich Hebrew word often meaning steadfast love, mercy, or loyal kindness; Job expects this deep, faithful kindness from his friends, not just surface-level sympathy.
• "Friend" (רֵעַ H7453, re'a) points to a close companion or associate, stressing that this expectation of mercy is not for strangers but for those with a bond of trust.
• "Forsaketh" (עָזַב H5800, azav) means to abandon or leave behind, showing that Job feels his friends have not just failed him but actively turned away from what is right.
• "Fear" (יִרְאָה H3374, yirah) refers to reverence or awe toward God, suggesting that failing to show kindness is also a spiritual failing.
• "Almighty" (שַׁדַּי H7706, Shaddai) is a name for God that emphasizes His power, reminding readers that reverence for God should shape how people treat each other.

Why Job 6:14 matters

• This verse clarifies that true friendship is measured by loyalty and compassion, especially when someone is suffering, not just by words or advice.
• Job connects human kindness with reverence for God, showing that how people treat the hurting reflects their relationship with God.
• The verse highlights a turning point in Job’s dialogue, as he openly challenges his friends’ lack of empathy and sets a standard for what godly friendship should look like.