Job 15:22 (KJV)

What does Job 15:22 mean?

Job 15:22 describes a person who has no hope of escaping trouble or danger, believing he will not come out of darkness and that death or violence is waiting for him. The verse paints a picture of someone trapped in despair, expecting only harm ahead.

In this verse, Eliphaz is speaking to Job during their debate about suffering and the fate of the wicked. Eliphaz argues that those who do evil are haunted by fear and doom, suggesting that Job’s suffering is a sign of guilt. The verse uses strong imagery to show how the wicked feel surrounded by darkness and threat, unable to see a way out.

The Hebrew behind Job 15:22

• "believeth" (אָמַן, ’āman): This word often means to trust or to have confidence. Here, it highlights the total lack of hope or assurance in the person’s mind.
• "return" (שׁוּב, shuv): This word means to turn back or come out. The verse suggests the person sees no possibility of escaping the darkness.
• "darkness" (חֹשֶׁךְ, ḥoshekh): This word can mean literal darkness or a metaphor for distress, danger, or ignorance. Eliphaz uses it to describe deep trouble or hopelessness.
• "waited" (צָפָה, tsaphah): This word can mean to watch or to lie in wait for. The idea is that the sword (danger or death) is actively waiting for the person, not just passively present.
• "sword" (חֶרֶב, cherev): This word refers to a weapon, often symbolizing violence, judgment, or death. Eliphaz uses it to emphasize the threat facing the wicked.

Why Job 15:22 matters

• Job 15:22 clarifies that Eliphaz sees suffering and fear as evidence of guilt, not just bad luck or unexplained hardship, which shapes the tone of his argument against Job.
• The verse’s language shows how ancient Hebrew poetry uses vivid images—darkness and the sword—to express emotional and spiritual realities, not just physical danger.
• Understanding this verse helps readers see the difference between Eliphaz’s view and Job’s own experience, highlighting the debate about why people suffer and whether suffering always means someone has done wrong.