Job 15:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 15:16
16 How much more abominable and filthy is man, which drinketh iniquity like water?
Chapter Context
Job 15 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, righteousness, wisdom. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 15:16
16 How much more abominable and filthy is man, which drinketh iniquity like water?
Analysis
Eliphaz concludes his rhetorical question: 'How much more abominable and filthy is man, which drinketh iniquity like water?' The escalation from 'not clean' (v.15) to 'abominable and filthy' intensifies the accusation. The vivid image of drinking iniquity like water suggests sin is so natural to humans that we consume it as readily as water. While Pauline theology affirms human depravity, Eliphaz weaponizes this truth to assume Job's guilt without evidence.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern texts often used drink metaphors for moral consumption (Proverbs 4:17). Eliphaz's extreme language—'abominable,' 'filthy'—reflects disgust, suggesting he views Job not just as wrong but as morally repulsive.
Reflection
- How does Reformed understanding of total depravity differ from viewing humans as worthless or disgusting?
- What prevents doctrine of sin from becoming dehumanizing rather than humbling?
- How does God's love for sinners balance the truth of our moral corruption?
Cross-References
- Sin: Proverbs 19:28
- Parallel theme: Job 34:7, Titus 3:3