Job 19:17 (KJV)

What does Job 19:17 mean?

Job 19:17 describes how Job’s suffering has become so severe that even his own wife finds him repulsive, and he pleads with her for understanding because of their shared children. The verse shows the depth of Job’s isolation and the breakdown of his closest relationships during his time of distress.

Job himself is speaking, describing his experience to his friends. He is in the midst of great physical and emotional pain, and he feels abandoned not just by society but also by his own family. The verse highlights how Job’s suffering affects every part of his life, even his marriage and his role as a father.

The Hebrew behind Job 19:17

• breath (רוּחַ, ruach): This word often means “spirit” or “breath.” Here, it refers to Job’s breath, which is described as unpleasant or offensive, likely due to his illness.
• strange (זָר, zar): This word means “strange” or “alien.” Job’s breath is so unpleasant that it makes him seem like a stranger to his wife, emphasizing the distance his suffering has created.
• wife (אִשָּׁה, ishah): This is the standard Hebrew word for “wife,” underscoring that even the most intimate relationship in Job’s life has been affected.
• intreated (חָנַן, chanan): This word means “to plead for favor or mercy.” Job begs his wife for understanding, showing his desperation.
• children’s (בֵּן, ben): This word means “son” or “child.” Job appeals to their shared family, hoping this bond will move his wife to compassion.
• body (בֶּטֶן, beten): This word means “belly” or “body,” referring to his own flesh and blood, highlighting the deep family connection.

Why Job 19:17 matters

• Job 19:17 clears up the misunderstanding that Job’s suffering was only physical; it also deeply affected his closest relationships, including his marriage.
• The verse emphasizes how suffering can create emotional and social distance, even between people who are supposed to be closest.
• This verse connects to the wider passage by showing the totality of Job’s isolation, setting up his later appeals to God and his longing for a redeemer.