Old Testament

Job 3:7

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ClearClear Bible Translation

Lo, let that night be solitary. Let no joyful voice come into it.

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KJVKing James Version

Lo, let that night be solitary, let no joyful voice come therein.

What Job 3:7 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Job 3:7, Job expresses a deep sense of despair and sorrow over the night of his birth. He wishes that the night he was born would be remembered as a lonely and joyless time, devoid of any celebration or happiness. This reflects his profound grief and the feeling that his existence has brought him nothing but suffering. Job's lamentation highlights the intensity of his pain and his desire for the world to acknowledge the weight of his misery. He longs for the night to be marked by silence rather than joy, indicating that he feels his life has been overshadowed by tragedy. This verse captures the essence of Job's struggle as he grapples with his suffering and questions the purpose of his life. It serves as a poignant reminder of the depths of human despair and the longing for understanding in times of great sorrow.

How to apply Job 3:7 to your life

When facing overwhelming sorrow, it can be helpful to express our feelings honestly, just as Job did. Acknowledging our pain allows us to process it and seek support from others. Remember, it’s okay to grieve and to wish for understanding during difficult times.

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 3:7 mean in simple terms?

Job 3:7 expresses Job's deep sorrow about the night of his birth. He wishes that night to be remembered as lonely and joyless, reflecting his profound grief and the pain he feels about his existence. This verse captures his intense suffering and desire for recognition of his misery, emphasizing the weight of his despair.

Why does Job wish for no joyful voice in Job 3:7?

Job wishes for no joyful voice in Job 3:7 because he feels that his life has been filled with suffering rather than joy. He wants the night of his birth to be marked by silence, indicating that he believes his existence has brought nothing but tragedy. This highlights his emotional turmoil and the depth of his grief.

How can Job 3:7 help us in times of grief?

Job 3:7 can help us by reminding us that it's okay to express our sorrow and acknowledge our pain. Just as Job openly lamented his suffering, we too can benefit from sharing our feelings with others. This verse encourages us to seek support and understanding during difficult times, validating our emotions as part of the healing process.

What themes are present in Job 3:7?

The themes present in Job 3:7 include despair, suffering, loneliness, existential reflection, and grief. These themes resonate with anyone who has experienced deep sorrow, as they highlight the human struggle with pain and the search for meaning in times of distress.

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