8 Its roots may grow old in the ground and its stump die in the soil,
8 Though the root thereof wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof die in the ground;
8 Though its root grow old in the earth, and its stump die in the soil,
8 Even if its roots are old and gnarled, its stump long dormant,
8 Though its root may grow old in the earth, And its stump may die in the ground,
8 Though its roots have grown old in the earth and its stump decays,
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 14:8
Commentary on Job 14:7-15
(Read Job 14:7-15)
Though a tree is cut down, yet, in a moist situation, shoots come forth, and grow up as a newly planted tree. But when man is cut off by death, he is for ever removed from his place in this world. The life of man may fitly be compared to the waters of a land flood, which spread far, but soon dry up. All Job's expressions here show his belief in the great doctrine of the resurrection. Job's friends proving miserable comforters, he pleases himself with the expectation of a change. If our sins are forgiven, and our hearts renewed to holiness, heaven will be the rest of our souls, while our bodies are hidden in the grave from the malice of our enemies, feeling no more pain from our corruptions, or our corrections.