Old Testament

Job 3:17

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ClearClear Bible Translation

There the wicked cease from troubling, and there the weary are at rest.

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KJVKing James Version

There the wicked cease from troubling; and there the weary be at rest.

What Job 3:17 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Job 3:17, the speaker reflects on a place where the troubles of the wicked come to an end, and those who are weary find peace. This verse expresses a longing for relief from suffering and injustice. It highlights the contrast between the turmoil of life and the hope for a place of rest. The speaker, Job, is lamenting his own suffering and wishing for an escape from his pain. The verse suggests that in death or in a place beyond this life, there is a cessation of conflict and a promise of tranquility. It resonates with the universal human desire for justice and rest from life's burdens, emphasizing that even in despair, there is a hope for peace. This longing for rest is a common theme in human experience, reflecting the deep need for solace amidst life's challenges. Job's words capture the essence of human suffering and the hope for a better existence beyond the trials of this world.

How to apply Job 3:17 to your life

In our lives, we often face struggles and injustices. This verse reminds us to seek peace and rest, both physically and spiritually. We can find comfort in knowing that there is a place where troubles cease, encouraging us to support one another in times of distress.

Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary

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A painting of Job kneeling among the ashes and broken pottery, crying out to the sky, as his three friends sit and listen

Illustrated scene from Job's story: Job Curses His Day (Job 3:1–26)

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Job

Rows of uncovered stone walls on the mound at Tel Shiloh, with no modern buildings in view.

Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.

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Shiloh

Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.

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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 3:17 mean about the wicked?

Job 3:17 speaks of a place where the wicked cease from troubling, indicating that in death or a state beyond this life, the injustices and suffering caused by the wicked come to an end. This reflects Job's deep yearning for relief from his own suffering and highlights the hope for a time when justice prevails and peace is restored.

How can Job 3:17 provide comfort during tough times?

This verse offers comfort by reminding us that there is a promise of rest and peace beyond our current struggles. It encourages us to hold onto hope, knowing that our suffering is temporary and that there is a place where we can find solace from life's burdens. It invites us to support each other in times of distress, reinforcing the idea that we are not alone in our struggles.

What themes are present in Job 3:17?

Job 3:17 encompasses themes of suffering, rest, justice, hope, and peace. It reflects the human experience of longing for relief from pain and injustice, emphasizing the desire for a tranquil existence free from the troubles caused by wickedness. These themes resonate deeply with anyone facing hardships, reminding us of the universal quest for solace.

How does Job 3:17 relate to the concept of justice?

In Job 3:17, the cessation of the wicked's troubles signifies a longing for justice. It suggests that true justice is found in a place where suffering ends and the weary find rest. This verse highlights the belief that ultimately, there will be a resolution to the injustices of life, providing hope for those who endure hardship and seek fairness.

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