Old Testament
Job 7:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
so that my soul chooses strangling, and death rather than my life.
Compare translations
So that my soul chooseth strangling, and death rather than my life.
What Job 7:15 means
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.
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
Explore more of the Bible
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.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, 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.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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 PlansAsk AI about Job 7:15
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 7:15
Related Bible verses
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 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.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.