Old Testament

Job 2:10

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ClearClear Bible Translation

But he said to her, "You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. What? Shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil?" In all this Job did not sin with his lips.

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KJVKing James Version

But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.

What Job 2:10 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Job responds to his wife, who suggests that he should curse God due to his suffering. Job rebukes her by saying that her words are foolish. He emphasizes that just as we accept good things from God, we must also accept the bad. This reflects Job's deep faith and understanding that life includes both blessings and hardships. He maintains his integrity and does not speak against God, showing his commitment to his beliefs despite his immense suffering. Job's response highlights the importance of faithfulness in difficult times and the need to trust in God's greater plan, even when we face trials. His refusal to sin with his words demonstrates his strength of character and unwavering devotion to God, setting an example for others in how to respond to adversity.

How to apply Job 2:10 to your life

When facing hardships, remember Job's response to his wife. Instead of complaining or losing faith, strive to accept both good and bad as part of life. Trust that God has a purpose in your struggles and maintain your integrity, even when times are tough.

Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary

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A painting of Job, covered in sores, sitting among the ashes and scraping himself with a piece of broken pottery as his wife speaks to him

Illustrated scene from Job's story: Sores and Ashes (Job 2:1–10)

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Job

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

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Hebron

Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.

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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 2:10 mean?

Job 2:10 means that Job is responding to his wife's suggestion to curse God by stating that it is foolish to only accept good from God and not the bad. He emphasizes that both good and evil are part of life, and he chooses to remain faithful despite his suffering.

What is the significance of Job's response in Job 2:10?

The significance of Job's response in Job 2:10 lies in his unwavering faith and integrity. He demonstrates that true faith involves accepting both blessings and hardships, showing resilience in the face of adversity.

How does Job 2:10 relate to the theme of suffering?

Job 2:10 relates to the theme of suffering by illustrating how Job acknowledges the reality of both good and evil in life. His response reflects a deep understanding that suffering is part of the human experience and does not diminish his faith.

What can we learn from Job 2:10 about facing adversity?

From Job 2:10, we learn that facing adversity requires acceptance of both good and bad experiences. Job's example teaches us to maintain our integrity and trust in God's plan, even when we encounter hardships.

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