Old Testament
Job 10:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
'Are not my days few? Cease then, and let me alone, that I may take comfort a little,'
Compare translations
Are not my days few? cease then, and let me alone, that I may take comfort a little,
What Job 10:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 10:20, Job expresses his deep anguish and desire for relief from his suffering. He acknowledges the brevity of his life, suggesting that his days are numbered and filled with pain. Job pleads for God to stop scrutinizing him, asking for a moment of comfort amidst his turmoil. This verse highlights Job's feeling of isolation and desperation, as he longs for peace and understanding in the face of his overwhelming trials. He feels as though he is under constant examination, which adds to his distress. Job's plea reflects a universal human desire for solace during difficult times, emphasizing the need for compassion and empathy from others, especially from God. This moment captures the essence of Job's struggle, as he grapples with his faith while enduring immense suffering, seeking a brief respite to gather his thoughts and emotions.
How to apply Job 10:20 to your life
In times of distress, we can relate to Job's plea for comfort. It's important to acknowledge our struggles and seek moments of peace. We should also extend compassion to others who are suffering, offering support and understanding during their difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Job 10:20
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Job 10:20
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Job
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 10:20 mean?
In Job 10:20, Job is expressing his pain and the feeling that his life is short and filled with suffering. He asks God to stop examining him so he can find a moment of comfort amidst his turmoil.
What is the significance of Job's plea in Job 10:20?
Job's plea highlights his deep anguish and desire for relief from his suffering. It reflects a universal human need for compassion and understanding during difficult times.
How does Job 10:20 relate to the theme of suffering?
Job 10:20 illustrates the intense suffering Job is experiencing, emphasizing his feelings of isolation and desperation. It shows how suffering can lead individuals to seek solace and understanding.
What does Job mean by 'let me alone' in Job 10:20?
When Job says 'let me alone,' he is asking God to stop scrutinizing him so he can find some peace. This reflects his overwhelming distress and desire for a break from his suffering.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.