Job 7:6

My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle; they come to an end without hope.

Study Bible

My days
The phrase "My days" refers to the personal and immediate experience of Job's life. In the Hebrew text, the word for "days" is "yāmîm," which often signifies not just the passage of time but the quality and experience of life itself. In the context of Job's suffering, these days are filled with anguish and turmoil. Historically, Job's lamentation reflects the human condition of suffering and the brevity of life, a theme echoed throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 90:10, which speaks of the fleeting nature of human existence.

are swifter
The Hebrew word "qal" is used here, meaning "swift" or "light." This word conveys a sense of rapidity and fleetingness. Job is expressing the speed at which his life is passing by, emphasizing the transient nature of human existence. This swiftness is not just a neutral passage of time but is filled with the urgency and desperation of his suffering. The imagery of swiftness is a common biblical motif, reminding believers of the importance of living righteously and purposefully, as life is but a vapor (James 4:14).

than a weaver’s shuttle
The "weaver’s shuttle" is a vivid metaphor drawn from the ancient practice of weaving, where the shuttle moves quickly back and forth to create fabric. In Job's time, weaving was a common occupation, and the imagery would have been immediately understood by his contemporaries. The shuttle's rapid movement symbolizes the relentless and unstoppable passage of time. This metaphor highlights the intricacy and complexity of life, much like a woven tapestry, yet also its fragility and impermanence.

and they come to an end
The phrase "come to an end" in Hebrew is "tāmû," which means to be completed or finished. Job is lamenting the conclusion of his days, which he perceives as drawing near. This reflects a deep sense of finality and resignation. In the broader biblical context, the end of life is often seen as a transition to eternity, urging believers to consider their eternal destiny and the importance of living a life pleasing to God (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).

without hope
The word "hope" in Hebrew is "tiqvâ," which signifies expectation or something to look forward to. Job's declaration of being "without hope" reveals the depth of his despair and the seeming absence of future joy or relief. In the conservative Christian perspective, hope is a central tenet of faith, rooted in the promises of God and the assurance of salvation through Jesus Christ. Job's struggle with hopelessness invites believers to reflect on the source of true hope, which is found in God's unchanging nature and His redemptive plan for humanity (Romans 15:13).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
A man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He is the central figure in the Book of Job, experiencing intense suffering and questioning the reasons behind it.

2. Uz
The land where Job lived. It is often associated with the region east of Israel, though its exact location is uncertain.

3. Job's Suffering
The context of this verse is Job's lament over his suffering, which includes the loss of his children, wealth, and health. He is expressing the brevity and despair of his life.

Teaching Points

The Brevity of Life
Life is fleeting, much like a weaver's shuttle, which moves quickly and continuously. This imagery reminds us to value our time and use it wisely for God's purposes.

The Reality of Suffering
Job's lament highlights the reality of suffering in a fallen world. Christians are not exempt from pain, but they can find hope in God's eternal promises.

Hope Beyond Despair
While Job speaks of life ending "without hope," believers have the assurance of hope through Christ. This hope transcends earthly suffering and points to eternal life.

Trusting God's Sovereignty
Even in despair, Job's account encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty. Our understanding is limited, but God's purposes are perfect and ultimately for our good.

Reflecting on Eternity
The swift passage of time should prompt us to focus on eternal matters, investing in our relationship with God and the advancement of His kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of a "weaver’s shuttle" help you understand the brevity of life, and how can this perspective influence your daily decisions?

2. In what ways can you find hope in God during times of suffering, as opposed to feeling like life is "without hope"?

3. How do other scriptures, such as James 4:14 and Psalm 39:5, reinforce the message of Job 7:6 about the fleeting nature of life?

4. What practical steps can you take to trust in God's sovereignty when you face personal trials and uncertainties?

5. How can reflecting on the brevity of life motivate you to focus on eternal values and priorities in your walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 39:5
This verse also speaks to the brevity of life, comparing it to a handbreadth, emphasizing the fleeting nature of human existence.

James 4:14
James reminds believers that life is like a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes, echoing Job's sentiment about the swiftness of life.

Ecclesiastes 6:12
Solomon reflects on the short and enigmatic nature of life, similar to Job's expression of life's fleetingness and lack of hope.