Job 16:6 (KJV)

What does Job 16:6 mean?

Job 16:6 expresses Job’s deep pain and frustration: whether he tries to speak about his suffering or stays silent, nothing brings him relief or lessens his grief. Job is saying that neither talking nor holding back helps ease the burden he feels.

In this verse, Job is replying to his friends after their attempts to explain his suffering. Job feels trapped in his pain—he cannot find comfort no matter what he does. The verse shows how isolated and helpless Job feels, as he struggles to cope with his overwhelming sorrow.

The Hebrew behind Job 16:6

• The word for “grief” is כְּאֵבִי (ke’evi), which often means deep pain or anguish, not just sadness. This highlights the intensity of Job’s suffering.
• “Asswaged” comes from יֵחָת (yekhat, from חָתַת ḥatat), meaning to be lessened or soothed. Job is saying that nothing he does makes his pain subside.
• “Forbear” is from חָדַל (ḥadal), meaning to hold back or refrain. Job is pointing out that even if he keeps quiet, it does not help.
• “Eased” comes from הָלַךְ (halakh), which literally means “to go” or “to move.” Here, it suggests that his pain does not “go away” or leave him, no matter what he tries.

Why Job 16:6 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that expressing pain or keeping it inside will always bring relief; Job finds neither approach helps him.
• Job 16:6 emphasizes the depth of Job’s suffering and his sense of being stuck, which helps readers understand the emotional reality of his situation.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by showing Job’s honest struggle with his friends’ advice and his own attempts to find comfort, setting the stage for his continued wrestling with God and his circumstances.