Old Testament

Job 10:22

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

'a land of darkness, as darkness itself, and of the shadow of death, without any order, and where the light is as darkness.'

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

A land of darkness, as darkness itself; and of the shadow of death, without any order, and where the light is as darkness.

What Job 10:22 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Job 10:22, Job describes a bleak and hopeless place, emphasizing the depth of his despair. He refers to it as a 'land of darkness,' suggesting a state of confusion and fear. The phrase 'shadow of death' indicates a feeling of impending doom, while 'without any order' highlights chaos and lack of direction. Job contrasts light with darkness, implying that even what should bring hope is overshadowed by despair. This verse reflects Job's emotional turmoil as he grapples with his suffering and questions the purpose of his existence. It serves as a poignant expression of human anguish and the search for meaning in times of deep distress, illustrating the struggle between hope and despair.

How to apply Job 10:22 to your life

When facing overwhelming challenges, we may feel lost in darkness like Job. This verse reminds us that it's okay to express our feelings of despair. Seeking support from others and turning to faith can help us find light in our darkest moments.

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.

A painting of Daniel and his three friends eating vegetables and drinking water in a Babylonian hall, while other young men eat the king's food and drink wine and the steward looks on

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

A ruined stone tower with a doorway at Burj Beitin, lit by low evening sun under a cloudy sky.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Job 10:22

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 10:22

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 10:22 mean?

Job 10:22 expresses a deep sense of despair and hopelessness. Job describes a bleak place filled with darkness and chaos, reflecting his emotional turmoil as he questions the purpose of his suffering.

What is the meaning of 'land of darkness' in Job 10:22?

The 'land of darkness' in Job 10:22 symbolizes a state of confusion and fear. It represents Job's feelings of being lost and overwhelmed by his suffering.

What does 'shadow of death' refer to in Job 10:22?

The 'shadow of death' in Job 10:22 indicates a feeling of impending doom and mortality. It highlights the seriousness of Job's situation and his struggle with despair.

What themes are present in Job 10:22?

Job 10:22 includes themes of despair, darkness, chaos, and suffering. It reflects existential questions about life and the search for meaning during difficult times.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.