Job 6:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Job 6:7
7 The things that my soul refused to touch are as my sorrowful meat.
Chapter Context
Job 6 is a wisdom dialogue chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, prayer, wisdom. Written during the patriarchal period (literary composition later), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient wisdom traditions often wrestled with the problem of suffering and divine justice.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Job and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Job 6:7
7 The things that my soul refused to touch are as my sorrowful meat.
Analysis
Job declares: 'The things that my soul refused to touch are as my sorrowful meat.' Things he once rejected (perhaps referring to Eliphaz's accusations, or his suffering itself) have become his unavoidable 'food.' The Hebrew 'davah' (sorrowful/sickening) and 'lehem' (bread/meat) suggest being forced to consume what nauseates. Job is forced to daily digest suffering and false accusations—to live with what his soul rejects. This pictures the involuntary nature of suffering.
Historical Context
Being forced to consume repulsive food appears in ancient Near Eastern literature as a metaphor for unbearable circumstances. Job uses this to emphasize that his suffering isn't chosen but imposed.
Reflection
- How do you respond when forced to daily 'consume' circumstances that nauseate your soul?
- What does Job's metaphor teach us about the involuntary nature of suffering?