Old Testament
Job 14:6
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turn from him so that he may rest, until he accomplishes, like a hired worker, his day.
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Turn from him, that he may rest, till he shall accomplish, as an hireling, his day.
What Job 14:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job expresses a desire for God to allow him some peace and rest. He likens his life to that of a hired worker who has a set period to work before he can rest. Job is asking for a break from his suffering, hoping that God will turn His attention away from him temporarily so that he can find relief. The imagery of a hired worker suggests that life has a purpose and a time frame, and Job longs for the completion of his struggles, similar to how a worker looks forward to the end of a workday. This reflects Job's deep yearning for understanding and relief from his pain, as he grapples with the meaning of his suffering and the nature of life itself.
How to apply Job 14:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek moments of rest and reflection in our own lives, especially during times of hardship. It reminds us that, like a worker, we have seasons of labor and rest. We should also recognize the importance of turning to God for relief and understanding during our struggles.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Related Bible verses
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 14:6 mean about rest and suffering?
Job 14:6 reflects Job's plea for relief from his suffering. He compares his life to that of a hired worker who needs a break after completing a task. This verse highlights the human desire for peace amidst pain, suggesting that just as workers look forward to rest after labor, we too seek moments of respite from our struggles. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing our need for rest and understanding during difficult times.
How can Job 14:6 be applied in daily life?
Job 14:6 can inspire us to prioritize rest and reflection, especially during challenging periods. It reminds us to take breaks and seek solace in our busy lives, acknowledging that we all have seasons of work and rest. By turning to God for support, we can find comfort and clarity in our struggles, allowing us to recharge and gain perspective on our challenges.
What does the imagery of a hired worker signify in Job 14:6?
The imagery of a hired worker in Job 14:6 signifies the structured nature of life, where there are defined periods of labor followed by rest. It illustrates the idea that life has a purpose and a timeline, and just as a worker anticipates the end of their workday, Job longs for the end of his suffering. This metaphor serves to convey the hope for eventual relief and the completion of life's challenges.
Why does Job ask God to turn away from him in Job 14:6?
In Job 14:6, Job asks God to turn away from him to find rest from his suffering. This request reflects Job's deep anguish and desire for a temporary reprieve from divine scrutiny. He feels overwhelmed by his trials and seeks a moment of peace, hoping that by stepping back, God would allow him to recover and regain strength to face his struggles.
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