7 “For there is hope for a tree,
If it is cut down, that it will sprout again,
that the tender branch of it will not cease. 8 Though its root grows old in the earth,
and its stock dies in the ground, 9 yet through the scent of water it will bud,
and put forth boughs like a plant. 10 But man dies, and is laid low.
Yes, man gives up the spirit, and where is he? 11 As the waters fail from the sea,
and the river wastes and dries up, 12 so man lies down and doesn’t rise.
Until the heavens are no more, they shall not awake,
nor be roused out of their sleep. 13 “Oh that you would hide me in Sheol,
that you would keep me secret, until your wrath is past,
that you would appoint me a set time, and remember me! 14 If a man dies, shall he live again?
All the days of my warfare would I wait,
until my release should come. 15 You would call, and I would answer you.
You would have a desire to the work of your hands.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Job 14:7-15
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.