Job 14:9
Yet through the scent of water it will bud, and bring forth boughs like a plant.
Original Language Analysis
מַ֣יִם
of water
H4325
מַ֣יִם
of water
Strong's:
H4325
Word #:
2 of 7
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
יַפְרִ֑חַ
it will bud
H6524
יַפְרִ֑חַ
it will bud
Strong's:
H6524
Word #:
3 of 7
to break forth as a bud, i.e., bloom; generally, to spread; specifically, to fly (as extending the wings); figuratively, to flourish
וְעָשָׂ֖ה
and bring forth
H6213
וְעָשָׂ֖ה
and bring forth
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
4 of 7
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
Historical Context
Ancient peoples living close to the land observed seasonal vegetation cycles more keenly than modern urban populations. In Palestine's climate, the contrast between summer drought and winter rain was dramatic—trees appearing completely dead would suddenly sprout. Job's metaphor would resonate powerfully with agricultural audiences. His question about human resurrection anticipates later biblical revelation.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'scent of water'—small sign of grace—has triggered spiritual renewal in your dried-up soul?
- How does Christ's resurrection answer Job's question about whether humans can revive like trees?
- In what areas of life do you need to trust that God can bring new growth from apparent death?
Analysis & Commentary
Yet through the scent of water it will bud (מֵרֵיחַ מַיִם יַפְרִיחַ, mereach mayim yafriach)—the 'scent' or 'fragrance' (רֵיחַ,reach) of water causes the seemingly dead tree to sprout (פָּרַח, parach, 'bud/blossom/flourish'). The poetic 'scent of water' suggests even minimal moisture—morning dew, distant rainfall—triggers resurrection. And bring forth boughs like a plant (קָצִיר, qatzir, 'harvest/branch')—the dead stump produces new growth like a freshly planted tree.
Job's observation is botanically accurate: many trees, especially in Mediterranean climates, can regenerate from seemingly dead roots. But theologically, he asks: do humans have similar hope? His question receives its answer in Christ's resurrection. The 'scent of water' foreshadows the Holy Spirit's life-giving work—Jesus promises 'living water' (John 4:10), and Paul describes resurrection bodies as seeds planted (1 Corinthians 15:35-44). What Job observes in nature, Christians experience spiritually: regeneration through the Spirit's water (Titus 3:5, John 3:5) and physically through bodily resurrection.