Job 23:17 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

Because I was not cut off before the darkness, neither hath he covered the darkness from my face.

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

Because I was not taken away before this terrible darkness came, and God has not hidden this darkness from me.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

Job is saying he wishes he had died before experiencing his current suffering, since God hasn't spared him from seeing these dark times.

📚 Historical Context

Job spoke these words during his intense period of suffering, having lost his children, wealth, and health. He was grappling with why a righteous person like himself would endure such overwhelming trials. This verse comes from Job's response to his friend Eliphaz, as Job continues to wrestle with God's apparent silence during his darkest hour.

Explore Similar Verses

Mark 13:20

If God hadn't cut those terrible days short, literally no one would survive. But because of the people he's chosen, he made sure those dark times wouldn't last forever.

Isaiah 5:20

How terrible it will be for those who say that evil things are good and good things are evil; who call darkness light and light darkness; who call bitter things sweet and sweet things bitter!

Judges 19:24

Look, here is my virgin daughter and his concubine. I will bring them out to you now. You can abuse them and do whatever you want with them, but don't do such a terrible thing to this man.

Ask the AI Assistant

Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.

Share or Save

📚 Historical Context

Explore Similar Verses

Ask the AI Assistant

Translation & Methodology Sources