Job 6:7

My soul refuses to touch them; they are loathsome food to me.

Study Bible

My soul
The Hebrew word for "soul" is "nephesh," which often refers to the entire being of a person, encompassing mind, will, and emotions. In this context, Job is expressing a deep, visceral reaction, indicating that his entire being is repulsed. This highlights the depth of his suffering and the intensity of his emotional and spiritual turmoil. The soul, being the seat of emotions and desires, reflects Job's profound inner conflict and distress.

refuses to touch them
The word "refuses" comes from the Hebrew "ma'en," which implies a deliberate and conscious decision to reject or decline. Job's refusal is not a passive feeling but an active choice, indicating his strong aversion. The phrase "to touch them" suggests a complete rejection, not even allowing proximity or contact. This can be seen as a metaphor for Job's rejection of the simplistic explanations and comfort offered by his friends, which he finds inadequate and offensive in light of his suffering.

they are loathsome
The term "loathsome" is translated from the Hebrew "zoah," meaning something that is abhorrent or detestable. This word choice conveys a strong sense of disgust and repulsion. In the context of Job's lament, it underscores the depth of his despair and the inadequacy of the counsel he receives. The use of such a strong term reflects Job's perception of the advice as not only unhelpful but also offensive to his sense of justice and understanding of God.

food to me
The metaphor of "food" here is significant. Food is typically associated with sustenance and nourishment, yet Job describes it as loathsome. This paradox highlights the irony of his situation: what is meant to sustain him (the counsel and comfort of his friends) instead becomes a source of revulsion. In a broader theological context, this can be seen as a reflection on the nature of true spiritual nourishment, which must align with truth and righteousness, rather than empty platitudes or misguided theology.

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, experiencing intense suffering and questioning the reasons behind it.

2. Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar
Job's three friends who come to comfort him but end up arguing with him about the reasons for his suffering, often suggesting that it is due to sin.

3. Uz
The land where Job lived, often associated with the region east of Israel, possibly in Edom or northern Arabia.

4. Job's Suffering
The series of calamities that befall Job, including the loss of his children, wealth, and health, which set the stage for his lament and dialogues with his friends.

5. God
The ultimate sovereign being who allows Job's testing, later responding to Job out of the whirlwind to reveal His wisdom and power.

Teaching Points

Understanding Suffering
Job's rejection of "loathsome food" symbolizes his deep anguish and the spiritual and emotional toll of his suffering. It reminds us that suffering can affect every aspect of our being.

Spiritual Discernment
Just as Job discerns what is loathsome, believers are called to discern what is spiritually nourishing versus what is harmful, aligning with Philippians 1:9-10.

Endurance in Trials
Job's steadfastness, despite his revulsion and despair, encourages believers to endure trials with faith, trusting in God's ultimate purpose and sovereignty.

The Role of Friends in Suffering
Job's friends fail to provide true comfort, teaching us the importance of empathy and understanding when supporting others in their trials.

God's Sovereignty and Wisdom
The account of Job ultimately points to God's greater wisdom and purpose, encouraging believers to trust in His plan even when it is not immediately clear.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job's description of "loathsome food" reflect his inner turmoil and spiritual state during his suffering?

2. In what ways can we discern between what is spiritually nourishing and what is harmful in our own lives, as Job does with his "food"?

3. How can the responses of Job's friends inform our approach to comforting others who are suffering?

4. What other biblical figures experienced similar feelings of revulsion or distress, and how did they respond to their circumstances?

5. How can we apply the lessons of Job's endurance and faith in God's sovereignty to our own trials and challenges today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 69:21
This verse speaks of being given "gall for my food," which connects to Job's expression of loathsome food, symbolizing deep distress and rejection.

Lamentations 3:15
The prophet Jeremiah speaks of being filled with bitterness, similar to Job's experience of loathsome food, highlighting the theme of suffering and divine testing.

Proverbs 27:7
This proverb contrasts the appetite of the satisfied soul with that of the hungry, paralleling Job's refusal to accept what is distasteful to him, both physically and spiritually.