The answer is: Job

Job 3:1

In the profound narrative of the Book of Job, silence reigns for a full seven days as Job’s friends sit with him in disbelief after he suffers unimaginable losses. This unspoken understanding resonates deeply, showcasing the power and weight of grief. When Job finally breaks this silence, it’s both heart-wrenching and eloquent. With the very first words of Job 3:1, he curses the day of his birth—opening a floodgate of questions about suffering, existence, and the human condition.

Interestingly, the Book of Job is often regarded as one of the oldest biblical texts, potentially dating back to around the 6th century BCE, but with themes so timeless that they speak volumes even today. Job’s lament not only illustrates his inner turmoil but also poses universal questions: Why do bad things happen to good people? Is suffering an essential part of human life?

Moreover, Job's narrative connects profoundly with others in scripture, such as Psalm 88, where the psalmist echoes the depths of despair—demonstrating that the emotional rawness accused of Job can be found scattered throughout the Bible. Such connections challenge modern interpretations and relate deeply to common human experiences.

The Israelite tradition often emphasizes face-to-face engagement with suffering rather than a glib resolution, encouraging us not to shy away from pain, but rather to wrestle with it. Through Job's poignant expression, we are invited into this divine conversation about suffering, wisdom, and the search for meaning that resonates through the ages.