This verse underscores the sobering consequences of wickedness, showing how it brings dire outcomes even to the next generation.
When Job describes the fate of the wicked in this passage, he declares: “If his sons are many, they are destined for the sword; And his descendants will not be satisfied with bread.” (Job 27:14). These words depict a harsh reality where an evildoer’s legacy passes on misfortune to the next generation. The idea of being “destined for the sword” strongly suggests inevitable judgment for those who continue in wrongdoing. Although the verse mentions children, it is not a condemnation of all children, but rather a dire warning that a life set against God’s ways can bring disastrous consequences on one’s household Romans 6:23).
In “If his sons are many” (v.14), Job implies that even a large family—normally associated with blessing in the ancient world—will find no escape from calamity if the father institutes a pattern of rebellion against God. The phrase “they are destined for the sword” (v.14) emphasizes that no matter the outward prosperity or the seeming success, God’s justice will address unrepentant wickedness. The latter part, “And his descendants will not be satisfied with bread” (v.14), underscores a deep lack, both materially and spiritually, because persistent wrongdoing ultimately erodes the foundation needed for godly provision and peace.
This message resonates with the broader Biblical understanding that sowing injustice leads to sorrow, a truth reaffirmed throughout Scripture (Galatians 6:7-8). While Job here expresses a stern perspective that reflects the depth of his suffering and struggle to make sense of evil, his words also caution any audience, ancient or modern, to consider the consequences of ungodly living on future generations. In the fullness of the Bible’s story, Jesus offers a path of redemption and renewal for all who turn from their former ways and follow Him (John 10:10).
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Job 27:14 meaning
When Job describes the fate of the wicked in this passage, he declares: “If his sons are many, they are destined for the sword; And his descendants will not be satisfied with bread.” (Job 27:14). These words depict a harsh reality where an evildoer’s legacy passes on misfortune to the next generation. The idea of being “destined for the sword” strongly suggests inevitable judgment for those who continue in wrongdoing. Although the verse mentions children, it is not a condemnation of all children, but rather a dire warning that a life set against God’s ways can bring disastrous consequences on one’s household Romans 6:23).
In “If his sons are many” (v.14), Job implies that even a large family—normally associated with blessing in the ancient world—will find no escape from calamity if the father institutes a pattern of rebellion against God. The phrase “they are destined for the sword” (v.14) emphasizes that no matter the outward prosperity or the seeming success, God’s justice will address unrepentant wickedness. The latter part, “And his descendants will not be satisfied with bread” (v.14), underscores a deep lack, both materially and spiritually, because persistent wrongdoing ultimately erodes the foundation needed for godly provision and peace.
This message resonates with the broader Biblical understanding that sowing injustice leads to sorrow, a truth reaffirmed throughout Scripture (Galatians 6:7-8). While Job here expresses a stern perspective that reflects the depth of his suffering and struggle to make sense of evil, his words also caution any audience, ancient or modern, to consider the consequences of ungodly living on future generations. In the fullness of the Bible’s story, Jesus offers a path of redemption and renewal for all who turn from their former ways and follow Him (John 10:10).