Old Testament
Job 2:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD and struck Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot to his crown.
Compare translations
So went Satan forth from the presence of the LORD, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown.
What Job 2:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a pivotal moment in the story of Job. After Job has already faced immense loss, Satan, having received permission from God, inflicts painful sores all over Job's body. This act demonstrates the extent of Job's suffering and the testing of his faith. The boils symbolize not just physical pain but also emotional and spiritual anguish. Job, a man known for his righteousness, is now in a state of deep distress. This moment highlights the theme of suffering and the struggle between good and evil. It raises questions about why the righteous suffer and how they respond to such trials. Job's experience serves as a profound exploration of faith under pressure, illustrating that even the most faithful can endure severe hardships. The verse sets the stage for Job's ongoing dialogue with his friends and his quest for understanding amidst his suffering.
How to apply Job 2:7 to your life
When facing hardships, remember that suffering can be a test of faith. Like Job, we may not understand why we endure pain, but we can choose to remain steadfast in our trust in God. Seek support from others and maintain your integrity during trials.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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 Job's story: Sores and Ashes (Job 2:1–10)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Job
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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 2:7
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 2:7
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 2:7 teach about suffering?
Job 2:7 illustrates that suffering can be a part of a larger divine plan. It shows that even the most righteous individuals can face immense pain and hardship. This verse emphasizes the reality of suffering in the human experience and invites readers to reflect on the purpose behind their own struggles.
Why did God allow Satan to afflict Job?
In Job 2:7, God permits Satan to afflict Job as a test of his faith and integrity. This interaction highlights the theme of divine sovereignty, where God allows trials to occur, not as punishment, but to reveal the strength of one's faith. It raises important questions about the nature of suffering and the reasons behind it.
What can we learn from Job's response to his suffering?
Job's response to his suffering, as depicted in Job 2:7, teaches us about perseverance and maintaining faith in the face of adversity. Despite his physical pain and emotional distress, Job does not curse God but instead seeks understanding. His example encourages us to remain steadfast and faithful, even when we do not understand our circumstances.
How does Job 2:7 relate to the theme of faith?
Job 2:7 is a critical moment that tests Job's faith. It shows that faith is not merely about receiving blessings but also about enduring trials. Job's unwavering trust in God, despite his suffering, serves as a powerful reminder that true faith is often tested in the most challenging times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.