Job 14:22 - But his flesh on him has pain, and his soul within him mourns.”

Generated Verse: Job 14:22

What does "Job 14:22" mean?


Job 14:22 speaks of the suffering of a person as they approach death. Let's break it down:

"But his flesh on him has pain": This refers to the physical suffering experienced as the body deteriorates. It's a description of physical pain, illness, and the general decline that often accompanies aging and dying.

"and his soul within him mourns": This part speaks to the inner turmoil, emotional distress, and spiritual suffering. "Soul" here encompasses the person's mind, emotions, and spirit. The "mourning" suggests a deep sense of sadness, regret, loss, or perhaps a lament over the state of one's life and mortality.

In essence, the verse paints a picture of a person suffering both physically and emotionally as they near the end of their life. The body is racked with pain, while the inner self is filled with sorrow.

Here are some possible interpretations and nuances:

The Inevitability of Suffering: The verse highlights the unavoidable suffering that is part of the human experience, especially as death approaches.
The Duality of Suffering: It emphasizes that suffering is not just physical but also deeply emotional and spiritual.
A Lament Over Loss: The "mourning" could be a lament over lost opportunities, broken relationships, unfulfilled dreams, or the simple loss of life itself.
Connection to Job's Suffering: In the context of the Book of Job, this verse reflects Job's own profound suffering, both physical and emotional. He is a man who has lost everything and is grappling with the meaning of his pain.
Humanity's Shared Fate: The verse speaks to the shared human fate of eventual death and the suffering that often accompanies it.

In short, the verse is a poignant reminder of the pain and sorrow that can be part of the human experience, especially during times of illness and in the face of death. It is a reflection on the dual nature of suffering, encompassing both the physical and the emotional/spiritual realms.

What categories does "Job 14:22" have?