Job 3:1
After this opened Job his mouth, and cursed his day.
Original Language Analysis
אַֽחֲרֵי
After
H310
אַֽחֲרֵי
After
Strong's:
H310
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
כֵ֗ן
H3651
כֵ֗ן
Strong's:
H3651
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
פָּתַ֤ח
this opened
H6605
פָּתַ֤ח
this opened
Strong's:
H6605
Word #:
3 of 9
to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
פִּ֔יהוּ
his mouth
H6310
פִּ֔יהוּ
his mouth
Strong's:
H6310
Word #:
6 of 9
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
וַיְקַלֵּ֖ל
and cursed
H7043
וַיְקַלֵּ֖ל
and cursed
Strong's:
H7043
Word #:
7 of 9
to be (causatively, make) light, literally (swift, small, sharp, etc.) or figuratively (easy, trifling, vile, etc.)
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature often included laments, but Job's curse is unique in its theological depth. Written during a time when birth was universally celebrated as blessing, Job's words shock by inverting creation's goodness.
Questions for Reflection
- Is it sinful to wish you had never been born when suffering becomes unbearable?
- How does Job's lament give you permission to be honest with God?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Job's curse upon his birthday marks the transition from patient endurance (1:21-22, 2:10) to raw lament. The Hebrew verb 'cursed' (qalal) intensifies the depth of Job's anguish - he wishes to un-create his own existence. This brutal honesty before God models faithful lament that doesn't minimize suffering.