Old Testament
Job 17:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He has made me also a byword of the people, and in the past I was like a tambourine.
Compare translations
He hath made me also a byword of the people; and aforetime I was as a tabret.
What Job 17:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 17:6, Job expresses his deep sense of humiliation and loss of dignity. He feels that he has become a subject of ridicule among the people, referred to as a 'byword,' which means he is now synonymous with shame or disgrace. This contrasts sharply with his past, where he was once celebrated and admired, likened to a 'tambourine' or 'tabret,' an instrument associated with joy and celebration. Job's lament highlights the drastic change in his circumstances, from being a figure of respect to one of scorn. This verse captures the emotional turmoil he experiences as he grapples with his suffering and the perception of others. It reflects the broader theme of how suffering can alter one's identity and how society views individuals in distress. Job's words resonate with anyone who has faced public shame or loss, reminding us of the fragility of reputation and the impact of suffering on personal dignity.
How to apply Job 17:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on how we treat others who are suffering. It reminds us to be compassionate and avoid making judgments based on their circumstances. Instead of ridiculing those in pain, we should offer support and understanding, recognizing that anyone can face hardship.
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 17:6
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 17:6
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 17:6 mean?
In Job 17:6, Job expresses his feelings of humiliation and loss of dignity, stating that he has become a 'byword' among people, symbolizing shame and disgrace. He contrasts this with his past, where he was once respected and celebrated, highlighting the drastic change in his life.
What is the significance of being a 'byword' in Job 17:6?
Being a 'byword' in Job 17:6 signifies that Job has become a subject of ridicule and scorn among people. It reflects how his suffering has altered his identity and how society perceives him, turning him from a figure of respect into one of shame.
What does Job compare himself to in Job 17:6?
In Job 17:6, he compares himself to a 'tambourine' or 'tabret,' which are instruments associated with joy and celebration. This comparison emphasizes the stark contrast between his former respected status and his current state of disgrace.
How does Job 17:6 relate to themes of suffering and identity?
Job 17:6 illustrates how suffering can profoundly impact one's identity and public perception. It shows that hardship can lead to a loss of dignity and respect, affecting how others view and treat individuals in distress.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.