King James Version

What Does Job 7:7 Mean?

O remember that my life is wind: mine eye shall no more see good. shall: Heb. shall not return see: to see, that is, to enjoy

Context

5

My flesh is clothed with worms and clods of dust; my skin is broken, and become loathsome.

6

My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle, and are spent without hope.

7

O remember that my life is wind: mine eye shall no more see good. shall: Heb. shall not return see: to see, that is, to enjoy

8

The eye of him that hath seen me shall see me no more: thine eyes are upon me, and I am not. I am: that is, I can live no longer

9

As the cloud is consumed and vanisheth away: so he that goeth down to the grave shall come up no more.

Commentary

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 7-16** Plain truths as to the shortness and vanity of man's life, and the certainty of death, do us good, when we think and speak of them with application to ourselves. Dying is done but once, and therefore it had need be well done. An error here is past retrieve. Other clouds arise, but the same cloud never returns: so a new generation of men is raised up, but the former generation vanishes away. Glorified saints shall return no more to the cares and sorrows of their houses; nor condemned sinners to the gaieties and pleasures of their houses. It concerns us to secure a better place when we die. From these reasons Job might have drawn a better conclusion than this, I will complain. When we have but a few breaths to draw, we should spend them in the holy, gracious breathings of faith and prayer; not in the noisome, noxious breathings of sin and corruption. We have much reason to pray, that He who keeps Israel, and neither slumbers nor sleeps, may keep us when we slumber and sleep. Job covets to rest in his grave. Doubtless, this was his infirmity; for though a good man would choose death rather than sin, yet he should be content to live as long as God pleases, because life is our opportunity of glorifying him, and preparing for heaven.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714). 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 7:7 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 7:7

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