Old Testament

Job 30:15

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Terrors are turned upon me; they pursue my soul as the wind, and my welfare passes away as a cloud.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Terrors are turned upon me: they pursue my soul as the wind: and my welfare passeth away as a cloud.

What Job 30:15 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In Job 30:15, Job expresses his deep anguish and despair. He feels overwhelmed by terrors that seem to chase him relentlessly, much like the wind that cannot be caught. His sense of security and well-being has vanished, likened to a cloud that quickly dissipates. This imagery illustrates Job's emotional turmoil and the feeling of being pursued by fear and hopelessness. The verse captures the essence of his suffering, as he grapples with the loss of peace and stability in his life. Job's words reflect a profound sense of isolation and vulnerability, as he confronts the harsh realities of his circumstances. The comparison to the wind and clouds emphasizes the fleeting nature of his former happiness and the relentless nature of his current distress. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced in times of suffering, where one may feel hunted by despair and the absence of joy.

How to apply Job 30:15 to your life

In moments of overwhelming fear or despair, remember that you are not alone. Like Job, it’s important to express your feelings and seek support from others. Acknowledging your struggles can be the first step toward healing and finding hope again.

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.

A painting of Job kneeling among the ashes and lifting his hands as he answers his three friends, who sit around him

Illustrated scene from Job's story: Job Holds Fast His Integrity (Job 27:1–31:40)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

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.

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 Plans

Ask AI about Job 30:15

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 30:15

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 30:15 mean in simple terms?

Job 30:15 expresses Job's feelings of deep anguish and despair. He describes being relentlessly pursued by fears, comparing them to the wind, which is elusive and unstoppable. His sense of security and well-being has vanished, likened to a cloud that quickly disappears. This imagery highlights his emotional turmoil and the feeling of being overwhelmed by hopelessness.

How can I relate to Job's feelings in this verse?

Many people experience moments of overwhelming fear and despair, similar to what Job describes. If you feel like your worries are chasing you or that your happiness has vanished, it's important to acknowledge those feelings. Job's experience reminds us that it's okay to feel vulnerable and to seek support from friends, family, or professionals when facing tough times.

What themes are present in Job 30:15?

The main themes in Job 30:15 include suffering, despair, vulnerability, and the loss of security. Job's words reflect emotional turmoil and the feeling of being hunted by fear and hopelessness. This verse captures the essence of struggling with life's challenges and the fleeting nature of happiness, serving as a reminder of the difficulties many face during tough times.

How can I find hope when feeling like Job in this verse?

Finding hope during times of despair, like Job, involves acknowledging your feelings and reaching out for support. Engage in conversations with trusted friends or family, seek professional help if needed, and explore spiritual practices that resonate with you. Remember that healing takes time, and it's important to be patient with yourself as you navigate through your emotions.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.