Job 8:12

12 While it is yet in its greenness, not cut down, It withers before any other reed.

Job 8:12 Meaning and Commentary

Job 8:12

Whilst it [is] yet in its greenness
Before it is come to its full height, or to a proper ripeness; when as yet it has not flowered, or is about it; before the time usual for it to turn and change; it being without moisture, water, or watery clay, will change;

[and] not cut down;
by the scythe, or cropped by the hand of man,

it withereth before any [other] herb;
of itself; rather sooner than such that do not require so much moisture; or in the sight and presence of them, they looking on as it were, and deriding it; a poetical representation, as Schultens observes: next follows the accommodation of these similes to wicked and hypocritical men.

Job 8:12 In-Context

10 Shall they not teach you, tell you, And utter words out of their heart?

11 "Can the papyrus grow up without mire? Can the rushes grow without water?

12 While it is yet in its greenness, not cut down, It withers before any other reed.

13 So are the paths of all who forget God. The hope of the godless man shall perish,

14 Whose confidence shall break apart, Whose trust is a spider's web.