Old Testament
Job 7:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Job expresses his deep anguish and despair.
- Author
- Author unknown; events likely in the patriarchal era
- Written
- Date debated
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- All who suffer or question God
so that my soul chooses strangling, and death rather than my life.
So that my soul chooseth strangling, and death rather than my life.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Job expresses his deep anguish and despair. He feels that his suffering is so intense that he would prefer death over continuing to live in such pain. The term 'strangling' symbolizes a desperate desire to escape his torment. Job's words reflect a moment of vulnerability where he is overwhelmed by his circumstances, feeling trapped and hopeless. This highlights the depth of his emotional and spiritual struggle as he grapples with the meaning of his suffering and the silence of God in his time of need. Job's lamentation reveals the human tendency to seek relief from unbearable pain, even if it means choosing death. His honesty in expressing these feelings serves as a reminder that it is okay to confront and articulate our darkest thoughts and emotions, especially in times of suffering. Job's struggle is relatable to many who face their own trials, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging pain while seeking understanding and healing.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Job 7:15 to your life
When facing overwhelming challenges, it's important to acknowledge our feelings of despair and seek support. Job's honesty about his pain encourages us to express our struggles rather than suppress them. We can find comfort in sharing our burdens with others and seeking help in difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Job Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Job 7:15 mean?
In Job 7:15, Job expresses his profound suffering, stating that he would rather choose death than continue living in pain. This verse highlights his feelings of despair and the intensity of his emotional turmoil.
What is the meaning of 'strangling' in Job 7:15?
The term 'strangling' in Job 7:15 symbolizes Job's desperate desire to escape his unbearable suffering. It reflects his wish for relief from his torment, illustrating the depth of his anguish.
How does Job 7:15 relate to feelings of hopelessness?
Job 7:15 relates to feelings of hopelessness by showcasing Job's extreme despair, where he feels trapped in his suffering. His words resonate with anyone who has experienced overwhelming pain and the desire for relief.
What can we learn from Job 7:15 about expressing pain?
Job 7:15 teaches us the importance of expressing our pain and struggles openly. It encourages acknowledging our feelings of despair rather than suppressing them, which can be a crucial step towards healing.

The Book of Job
Job 1: Job's Integrity and First Test
Job lives in the land of Uz and is known for fearing God and turning away from evil. He has seven sons, three daughters, and great wealth. His sons hold feasts in their homes, and Job regularly sends for them and offers burnt offerings in case any of them sins in their hearts.
Unlock the full Job summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Job — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 42 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Job summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.