Book of Job - Chapter 19 - Verse 17

In this verse, the speaker is expressing the disconnect they feel with their spouse, emphasizing how unfamiliar their own breath has become to their wife. This could symbolize a metaphorical distance that has grown between the couple, leading to a lack of intimacy and understanding. Despite their efforts to reconcile and mend the relationship, their partner remains distant and unresponsive. The speaker's plea for the sake of their children highlights the importance of family unity and the sacrifices one is willing to make to preserve it. This verse serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that can arise in relationships, even within the context of marriage and parenthood. It illustrates the struggle to navigate through misunderstandings, disagreements, and emotional distance, emphasizing the need for communication, empathy, and compromise in order to maintain a strong and connected family unit.

When examining the theological interpretation of Job 19:17, it is important to consider the context in which the verse is situated. Job, a righteous man who has faced immense suffering and loss, is expressing his distress over the lack of support and understanding he receives from his wife. The phrase "My breath is strange to my wife" conveys the idea that his wife no longer recognizes or empathizes with him, possibly due to the magnitude of his suffering. Despite his earnest pleas for help, she remains distant and unresponsive. This verse highlights the loneliness and isolation that Job experiences in the midst of his trials, as even his closest companion fails to provide comfort and solace. Through a word study, we can dive deeper into the meaning of "strange" which can connote a sense of being foreign or unfamiliar. This further underscores the significant disconnect between Job and his wife, emphasizing the profound impact of his suffering on their relationship. Overall, Job 19:17 serves as a poignant reflection on the challenges of enduring hardship and the complexities of human relationships in times of crisis.