King James Version
What Does Job 3:8 Mean?
“Let them curse it that curse the day, who are ready to raise up their mourning. their: or, leviathan”
Context
6
As for that night, let darkness seize upon it; let it not be joined unto the days of the year, let it not come into the number of the months. let it not be: or, let it not rejoice among the days
7
Lo, let that night be solitary, let no joyful voice come therein.
8
Let them curse it that curse the day, who are ready to raise up their mourning. their: or, leviathan
9
Let the stars of the twilight thereof be dark; let it look for light, but have none; neither let it see the dawning of the day: the dawning: Heb. the eyelids of the morning
10
Because it shut not up the doors of my mother's womb, nor hid sorrow from mine eyes.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(8) **That curse the day**—i.e., Let those who proclaim days unlucky or accursed curse that day as pre-eminently so; or let them recollect that day as a standard or sample of cursing. “Let it be as cursed as Job’s birth day.”
These people are further described as being ready to arouse leviathan (Authorised Version, “raise up their mourning”), or the crocodile—persons as mad and desperate as *that. *Let the most hopeless and reckless of mankind select that day as the one which they would choose to curse. This seems to be Job’s meaning.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Job. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Job 3:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Job 3:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge