The answer is: His birth

Job 3:1 - Job wished he had never been born

In the Book of Job, the opening verses of chapter 3 thrust us into a profound moment of despair as Job laments the day of his birth. Imagine facing excruciating suffering and, instead of railing against the universe, you actually grieve the very act of being born. It illustrates how overwhelming grief can make even the precious gift of life feel like a burden.

Job’s lamentation connects strongly to a broader theme found throughout the Bible: the pain and struggles of existence. Interestingly, this theme resonates deeply with many wisdom texts, including Ecclesiastes, where the futility of life is often explored. Even Jesus, in times of distress, questioned the purpose of suffering, echoing feelings of Job.

Beyond Job’s personal sorrow lies a cultural tidbit. In Middle Eastern traditions much like Job's time, birth did not carry the joyous connotations it does today. For many, the difficulties of life could render existence itself something to grieve rather than celebrate. Times were tough, so there perhaps existed a nuanced view that connected personal suffering to themes of retribution or divine justice.

Moreover, Job's woes inspire modern thought on mental health and resilience. If Job's story has anything to teach us, it's the validation of speaking openly about despair. While it might seem dire, Job's journey ultimately guides us toward the realization of enduring hope, communal comfort, and the search for deeper understanding amidst suffering, making it a timeless narrative that continues to resonate today.