Job 25:6
How much less man, that is a worm? and the son of man, which is a worm?
Original Language Analysis
אַ֭ף
H637
אַ֭ף
Strong's:
H637
Word #:
1 of 7
meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
2 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
אֱנ֣וֹשׁ
How much less man
H582
אֱנ֣וֹשׁ
How much less man
Strong's:
H582
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
רִמָּ֑ה
that is a worm
H7415
רִמָּ֑ה
that is a worm
Strong's:
H7415
Word #:
4 of 7
a maggot (as rapidly bred), literally or figuratively
וּבֶן
and the son
H1121
וּבֶן
and the son
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
5 of 7
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern humility expressions included self-abasement metaphors. Bildad's 'worm' imagery appears in Psalm 22:6 (messianic), but Bildad uses it to crush rather than elevate through redemption.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you balance recognition of human sinfulness with human dignity?
- What's the difference between biblical humility and self-degradation?
Analysis & Commentary
Bildad concludes: 'How much less man, that is a worm? and the son of man, which is a worm?' This degradation of humanity emphasizes sinfulness but loses sight of imago dei. Humans are fallen yet image-bearers, worms yet crowned with glory (Psalm 8:4-5).