Job 3:10

For that night did not shut the doors of the womb to hide the sorrow from my eyes.

Study Bible

For that night
The phrase "for that night" refers to the night of Job's conception or birth. In the Hebrew context, "night" (לַיְלָה, laylah) often symbolizes darkness, mystery, and the unknown. Job is lamenting the very beginning of his existence, wishing that the night had prevented his birth. This reflects a deep anguish and a desire to have been spared the suffering he is experiencing. In the broader scriptural context, night can also represent a time of divine testing or trial, as seen in other biblical narratives.

did not shut
The phrase "did not shut" uses the Hebrew verb סָגַר (sagar), meaning to close or shut. This imagery of shutting suggests a barrier or protection that was not provided. Job is expressing a wish that the natural process of birth had been interrupted. Theologically, this can be seen as a cry for divine intervention that did not occur, highlighting the theme of God's sovereignty and the mystery of His will in human suffering.

the doors of the womb
"The doors of the womb" is a metaphorical expression. In Hebrew, the word for "doors" (דְּלָתַיִם, delatayim) conveys the idea of an entrance or gateway. The womb is often seen as a place of life and potential, yet here Job wishes it had been closed to him. This reflects a profound sense of despair, as the womb is traditionally a symbol of hope and new beginnings. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the womb was also seen as a sacred space, further emphasizing the depth of Job's lament.

to hide sorrow from my eyes
The phrase "to hide sorrow from my eyes" reveals Job's desire to have been spared the pain and grief he now endures. The Hebrew word for "sorrow" (עָמָל, amal) can also mean trouble or toil, indicating the burdensome nature of his suffering. Job's eyes, which have witnessed his losses and afflictions, are emblematic of his personal experience of sorrow. This plea underscores the human longing for relief from suffering and the hope for divine compassion and understanding.

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, known for his immense suffering and perseverance.

2. The Womb
Symbolically represents the beginning of life. In this context, Job laments his birth, wishing that he had never been born to experience such sorrow.

3. Sorrow
Represents the intense grief and suffering Job is experiencing. It is a central theme in this chapter as Job expresses his deep anguish.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Suffering
Suffering is a part of the human experience, even for the righteous. Job's lament reminds us that it is okay to express our pain and sorrow to God.

The Sanctity of Life
Despite Job's lament, the Bible affirms the value and purpose of life. We are reminded to seek God's purpose even in our suffering.

The Importance of Lament
Lament is a biblical way to process grief and sorrow. It allows us to bring our deepest emotions before God, trusting in His ultimate sovereignty.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Even when we do not understand our suffering, we are called to trust in God's greater plan and His ability to bring good out of our pain.

Community Support
Job's account highlights the need for compassionate support from others during times of suffering. We are encouraged to be present and supportive to those in distress.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job's expression of sorrow in Job 3:10 reflect the human experience of suffering, and how can we relate to it in our own lives?

2. In what ways can the practice of lament, as seen in Job 3 and other scriptures, be a healthy part of our spiritual life?

3. How do other biblical figures, such as Jeremiah and Solomon, express similar feelings of despair, and what can we learn from their experiences?

4. How can we reconcile the sanctity of life with the deep desire to escape suffering, as expressed by Job in this passage?

5. What role does community play in supporting individuals who are experiencing deep sorrow, and how can we be more effective in providing that support?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 20:14-18
Jeremiah, like Job, curses the day of his birth, expressing a similar depth of despair and questioning the purpose of his suffering.

Ecclesiastes 4:2-3
Solomon reflects on the state of the dead and the unborn, considering them more fortunate than the living who suffer.

Psalm 88
A psalm of lament that echoes the themes of darkness and despair found in Job's lament.