Job 10:11Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The essence from which the creature is created is referred to as milk, and just as milk that has been processed turns into cheese, so too does the essence that is poured out and solidified take on a natural form. This marks the initial stage of the embryo. The essence that is nurtured within the womb, once it has thickened and solidified like cheese, becomes natural; subsequently, it is formed or, as Scripture states, is ‘represented’ (Ex. 21:22-23), adopting what could be seen as a likeness. The fluid form becomes consolidated, dividing within the womb into skin, flesh, bones, and veins. These distinct elements, while possessing life when animated by a soul, remain inert without it.

In this passage, Job metaphorically refers to the Word of God assuming human form. The expressions clearly seem directed towards the Father, reminiscent of what the Son might proclaim.

Moses teaches that the child is initially formed within the womb and subsequently receives a soul (Exodus 21:23). This process does not imply that the soul is externally introduced into the body or comes forth from seed; rather, it occurs according to the divine law that God instituted from the very beginning within human nature. This understanding is also acknowledged by the steadfast Job in his dialogue with his Creator: “Remember that thou didst create me, and bring me back to the earth again. Or didst thou not churn me up like milk, and put me to death like raw milk? And with skin and flesh hast thou clothed me, and with bones and veins hast thou sewn me together. Thou hast laid up for me life and favour: but hast Thy visitation kept my spirit?” (Job 10:9-12).

The essence from which a living being is formed is likened to milk that is drawn forth. Just as curdled milk transforms into cheese, so too does the curdled essence become nature. This is the condition preceding life. The essence that has emerged into the fields of a woman’s womb, curdling like cheese, evolves into nature. Following this, it is shaped, or as Scripture states, it is manifested (See Exodus 21:22-23 LXX.) and receives specific characteristics. Once the parts are separated and each moves independently—like the hand or foot of a living entity—the embryo is born, emerging as a living being.

Job expresses astonishment that the Lord, who is all-powerful and all-knowing, not only fashioned humanity but also meticulously sustains their lives and oversees their conduct. He wonders why this same Lord harshly afflicts His creation for seemingly trivial transgressions and subjects him to such profound anguish (Job 10:1-12). In the midst of his confusion over the reasons behind his innocent suffering and his struggle to vindicate himself before God, Job ultimately chooses death over life, pleading for respite from the remaining days of his troubled existence (Job 10:13-22).