Old Testament

Job 11:16

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

ClearClear Bible Translation

Because you shall forget your misery and remember it as waters that pass away.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Because thou shalt forget thy misery, and remember it as waters that pass away:

What Job 11:16 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Job's friend Zophar is suggesting that Job will eventually forget his current suffering and pain, comparing it to water that flows away and is no longer remembered. The imagery of water emphasizes the transient nature of troubles, implying that just as water passes quickly, so too will Job's misery. This statement reflects a belief in the possibility of healing and restoration after hardship. Zophar is encouraging Job to look forward to a time when his troubles will be behind him, suggesting that there is hope for a brighter future. The underlying message is that suffering is not permanent and that one can find peace and joy again after enduring trials. This perspective can be comforting, reminding us that difficult times are often temporary and that healing is possible.

How to apply Job 11:16 to your life

When facing difficult times, remember that pain and suffering are often temporary. Focus on the hope of healing and restoration. Just as water flows away, so too can our troubles. Embrace the belief that brighter days are ahead and seek support from others during tough 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.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

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 11:16

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 11:16

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 11:16 mean?

Job 11:16 means that Job will eventually forget his current suffering, comparing it to water that flows away and is no longer remembered. This suggests that pain is temporary and healing is possible.

What is the meaning of 'forget your misery' in Job 11:16?

'Forget your misery' in Job 11:16 implies that Job will overcome his current hardships and find peace. It emphasizes the idea that suffering does not last forever.

How does Job 11:16 relate to healing?

Job 11:16 relates to healing by suggesting that, like water that passes, our troubles can also fade away. It offers encouragement that brighter days are ahead after enduring pain.

What themes are present in Job 11:16?

Themes in Job 11:16 include hope, healing, the transience of suffering, encouragement, and restoration. It highlights the belief that difficult times are temporary.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

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