Old Testament
Job 3:18
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There the prisoners rest together; they do not hear the voice of the oppressor.
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There the prisoners rest together; they hear not the voice of the oppressor.
What Job 3:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Job 3:18, the verse reflects on the state of those who are imprisoned, suggesting that in death, they find peace and rest from their suffering. The contrast between the two translations highlights a significant point: in the Audited Clear Bible Translation (CBT), the prisoners are depicted as resting together without the fear of their oppressors, while the King James Version (KJV) implies they do not hear the oppressor's voice. This suggests that in death, the burdens and pains of life, including oppression and suffering, are lifted. The verse serves as a poignant reminder of the relief that comes with the end of earthly struggles, emphasizing the hope of peace beyond life’s trials. It speaks to the universal human experience of suffering and the longing for rest and relief from pain, making it a powerful reflection on mortality and the hope for a better existence after death.
How to apply Job 3:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to find solace in the idea that suffering is temporary. In times of distress, we can remind ourselves that there is hope for peace and rest beyond our current struggles. It invites us to support those who are suffering, offering compassion and understanding as they navigate their challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
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Illustrated scene from Job's story: Job Curses His Day (Job 3:1–26)
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Job
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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Keep studying Job 3:18
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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 3:18 mean?
Job 3:18 reflects on the state of prisoners in death, suggesting they find peace and rest from their suffering. The verse contrasts the experience of oppression in life with the relief that comes in death.
What is the meaning of 'prisoners rest together' in Job 3:18?
The phrase 'prisoners rest together' signifies that in death, those who suffered and were oppressed find solace and companionship, free from the pains and struggles they faced in life.
How does Job 3:18 relate to the theme of hope?
Job 3:18 conveys hope by illustrating that death brings an end to earthly struggles and oppression, offering a promise of rest and peace beyond life's trials.
What does 'they do not hear the voice of the oppressor' mean in Job 3:18?
This phrase suggests that in death, individuals are liberated from the torment and oppression they experienced in life, highlighting the relief and tranquility that comes with passing away.
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