Job 16:22
When a few years are come, then I shall go the way whence I shall not return.
Original Language Analysis
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
מִסְפָּ֣ר
When a few
H4557
מִסְפָּ֣ר
When a few
Strong's:
H4557
Word #:
3 of 8
a number, definite (arithmetical) or indefinite (large, innumerable; small, a few); also (abstractly) narration
וְאֹ֖רַח
the way
H734
וְאֹ֖רַח
the way
Strong's:
H734
Word #:
5 of 8
a well-trodden road (literally or figuratively); also a caravan
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Cross References
Job 14:10But man dieth, and wasteth away: yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where is he?Job 14:14If a man die, shall he live again? all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come.Job 14:5Seeing his days are determined, the number of his months are with thee, thou hast appointed his bounds that he cannot pass;
Historical Context
Ancient peoples understood death as crossing a boundary from which none return (2 Samuel 12:23). This awareness intensified the urgency of Job's appeal for vindication before death made it impossible.
Questions for Reflection
- How does awareness of death's approach shape our relationship with God?
- What changes when we face suffering knowing time is limited?
Analysis & Commentary
'When a few years are come, then I shall go the way whence I shall not return.' Job contemplates death's approach: 'a few years' (שְׁנוֹת מִסְפָּר, shenot mispar—numbered years), then 'the way whence I shall not return' (וְאֹרַח לֹא־אָשׁוּב, ve'orach lo-ashuv). This echoes Ecclesiastes 12:5 and Psalm 39:13. Death appears as a one-way journey (from Job's earthly perspective). Yet even here, facing apparent finality, Job addresses God, seeks vindication (previous verses), and maintains prayer. Mortality awareness should drive us to God, not away from Him. The Reformed emphasis on memento mori (remember you must die) isn't morbid but realistic, orienting us toward eternal realities. Job's facing death honestly produces not despair but urgent appeal for justice.