Job 7:16 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of the book of Job, Job is very sad and doesn't want to keep living because he feels his life is empty and pointless. He is asking to be left alone because he is tired and unhappy.

Contradiction with Philippians 1:21

This verse expresses the sentiment that to live is Christ and to die is gain, portraying a more hopeful outlook on life and death which contrasts with Job's disdain for life.

Philippians 1:21: For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain.

Contradiction with Psalm 118:24

This verse encourages rejoicing in each day as a gift from the Lord, contrary to Job's expression of despair and rejection of his days.

Psalm 118:24: This [is] the day [which] the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:10

This verse indicates a desire for life and love of good days, which contradicts Job's statement of not wanting to live.

1 Peter 3:10: For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:

Contradiction with John 10:10

This verse speaks of having life more abundantly through Christ, opposing Job's view of his life as worthless.

John 10:10: The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have [it] more abundantly.

Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 3:12-13

These verses suggest that finding joy and doing good in life are gifts from God, clashing with Job's rejection of life.

Ecclesiastes 3:12-13: I know that [there is] no good in them, but for [a man] to rejoice, and to do good in his life.

Contradiction with Psalm 23:6

This verse assures that goodness and mercy will follow one’s life, presenting a hopeful assurance that contrasts with Job's despair.

Psalm 23:6: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. [for ever: Heb. to length of days]

Paradox #1

The contradiction or conflict in Job 7:16 might arise from the feeling of despair and rejection of life expressed in the verse. While many teachings in the Bible emphasize hope, faith, and valuing life, Job's expression of hopelessness could seem inconsistent with these messages. This tension between despair and hope might pose a moral conflict for readers who are trying to balance personal suffering with spiritual beliefs.